Beef Enchiladas

Beef enchiladas are a delightful and comforting dish that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. This flavorful meal combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melty cheese rolled together in soft tortillas, all smothered in a rich and spicy enchilada sauce. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or simply craving a taste of something delicious, beef enchiladas are sure to please everyone at the table.

These enchiladas are not only satisfying but also highly customizable. You can adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients for your favorites, and even create variations that cater to various dietary preferences. The best part? Beef enchiladas are relatively easy to prepare, making them a perfect go-to recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this remarkable dish.

Ingredients for Beef Enchiladas

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for enchilada sauce)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken stock (low sodium)
• 1 1/2 cups tomato passata or 1 can canned tomato sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for beef)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 400g refried beans
• 400g black beans (drained)
• 8 tortillas or burrito wraps
• 1 1/2 cups grated melting cheese
• Cilantro leaves (chopped, optional)

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’d like to make some changes to the recipe, there are several ingredient substitutions you can make. For the ground beef, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option. You can use a vegetarian meat substitute or mushrooms if you’re looking for a plant-based version. Tortillas can be swapped with gluten-free options or corn tortillas for a more traditional taste. Additionally, you can switch the cheese to a dairy-free variety if desired.

How to Make Beef Enchiladas

Step 1: Mix the Spice Mix

Start by mixing together all the spice mix ingredients: onion powder, garlic powder, cumin powder, paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if you like some heat). Combine these flavors in a small bowl and set it aside for later use. This spice mix will add depth and warmth to both the beef filling and the enchilada sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Enchilada Sauce

In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly. Cook the flour for about 1 minute until it forms a paste. Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the rest of the chicken broth, tomato passata (or canned tomato sauce), salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the spice mix you prepared. Increase the heat and cook the sauce for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.

Step 3: Create the Beef Filling

Preheat your oven to 180C (350F). In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking for about 2 minutes until softened. Next, add the 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the remaining spice mix and continue to cook for about 2 minutes until the beef is browned. Then, add the refried beans, drained black beans, and 1/4 cup of the prepared enchilada sauce. Season with salt and pepper, mixing everything together. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld, and then remove it from the heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Pour a thin layer of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. On each tortilla, place some of the beef filling and sprinkle with cheese. Roll up the tortillas tightly, placing them seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. After all the enchiladas are arranged in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, if desired.

How to Serve Beef Enchiladas

Best ways to serve Beef Enchiladas

Beef enchiladas are best served hot, straight from the oven. You can place them on individual plates or serve directly from the baking dish. Add a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema on the side for extra richness. Freshly chopped cilantro on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful splash of color.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Pair your beef enchiladas with traditional sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. Complement the meal with sides of guacamole, salsa, or diced avocados. You might also enjoy serving chilled beverages like horchata or a light Mexican beer alongside this warm, hearty dish.

How to Store Beef Enchiladas

Proper storage methods

If you have leftovers, allow the enchiladas to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months.

Tips for reheating or freezing

When reheating refrigerated enchiladas, you can simply pop them in the oven at 180C (350F) until warmed through, usually about 15 minutes. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent excess browning. If reheating from frozen, it is best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For steaming hot enchiladas straight from the freezer, increase the baking time to 30-40 minutes, making sure they are heated thoroughly.

Tips to Make Beef Enchiladas

Common mistakes to avoid

One common issue when making enchiladas is overstuffing the tortillas. This can make rolling difficult and can cause the tortillas to split apart. Aim for a reasonable amount of filling—enough to taste but not so much that it spills out. Another mistake is not allowing the enchilada sauce to thicken properly. A thick sauce clings to the enchiladas better, providing a richer flavor and texture.

Helpful tips for better results

For best results, use fresh tortillas if possible. If you’re using corn tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side to make them more pliable. This prevents them from cracking when rolled. Additionally, play around with the spice levels by adjusting the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. Always taste your filling to ensure it has enough seasoning before assembling the enchiladas.

Variation of Beef Enchiladas

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

While the classic beef enchiladas are delicious on their own, you can try some fun variations. For instance, you can incorporate different proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or even a mix of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. For a twist, try using a green enchilada sauce instead of red for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with baking the enchiladas with a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack for an added kick.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For those with dietary restrictions, crafting a gluten-free version is simple. Substitute the flour in the sauce with cornstarch or use a gluten-free flour blend. Also, tortillas can easily be swapped out for gluten-free varieties. To make the dish vegetarian, skip the beef and use a combination of beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables as the filling. The enchilada sauce remains adaptable and is equally delicious regardless of the filling.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your enchiladas are too dry, make sure you’re applying enough sauce. Adding more sauce before baking can help keep them moist. If they are overly soggy, you might need to reduce the amount of sauce next time or ensure your tortillas are adequately warmed before assembling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef filling and enchilada sauce in advance. Store each component separately in the fridge and assemble the enchiladas just before baking. You can also assemble them completely, cover, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Remember to adjust the baking time accordingly, as they will need a little more time to heat through.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you’re out of specific ingredients, you have plenty of options. Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for lighter meat options, or try vegetarian fillings like lentils, mushrooms, or a medley of your favorite veggies. For the sauce, tomato sauce can be replaced with salsa for a change in flavor or spice. Just remember that the seasonings may need to be adjusted based on what you use.

Beef enchiladas are not just a meal; they are an experience filled with warmth, spice, and comfort. Whether for a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish promises to be a hit every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure and delight in the savory results!

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