There’s nothing quite like the aroma of beef enchiladas with red sauce wafting through the kitchen, promising a fiesta for your taste buds. Imagine soft tortillas wrapped around savory beef, all topped with a rich, zesty red sauce that has just the right amount of kick. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate, inviting you to savor every morsel.
I still remember the first time I attempted to make these enchiladas. Let’s just say it was an epic adventure filled with laughter and a few minor kitchen disasters. But once I pulled those cheesy, saucy beauties from the oven, all my culinary missteps faded away. Whether you need a cozy family dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for game day, these beef enchiladas are bound to steal the show and your heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These beef enchiladas with red sauce are a breeze to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile is rich and satisfying, guaranteed to impress any taco lover.
- Their vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma create an irresistible visual appeal on your dinner table.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion—serve them up at parties or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients for beef enchiladas with red sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor. Brown it well for maximum richness. For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas work best for authenticity, but flour tortillas can also be used if you prefer them softer.
- Red Enchilada Sauce: You can either buy pre-made sauce or whip up your own from scratch; both options are delightful!
- Shredded Cheese: A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives the best melty goodness.
- Onion: Diced onions add sweetness; sauté them before adding to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
- Cumin: This spice adds warmth and earthiness to your filling; don’t skimp on it!
For garnishing:
- Sour Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess that perfectly balances the spices in the dish.
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro provides freshness and a pop of color to your plate.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make beef enchiladas with red sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty baking dish and give it a generous spray of nonstick cooking spray so those enchiladas don’t stick like they owe you money.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced onions and cook until translucent. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat before seasoning with cumin, salt, and pepper—your kitchen should be smelling heavenly by now!
Step 3: Prepare Tortillas
Warm up those tortillas! You can microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds. This will make them flexible enough to roll without cracking—trust me; nobody wants a shredded tortilla situation here!
Step 4: Assemble Your Enchiladas
Spoon some of the beef mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly like little gift packages of joy! Place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the red enchilada sauce over all those beautiful rolls (don’t be shy!). Then sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top—because more cheese equals more happiness!
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your patience will be rewarded tenfold when you pull out this cheesy masterpiece!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sour cream while garnishing with fresh cilantro for that final touch! Enjoy your delicious creation that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds)!
You Must Know
- This beef enchiladas with red sauce recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a fiesta on your plate.
- With layers of flavor and vibrant colors, they are sure to impress your family and friends.
- Plus, who doesn’t love a cheesy, saucy delight?
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef in a skillet while you warm the tortillas. Next, prepare the red sauce and fill each tortilla with the beef mixture before rolling them up. Finally, pour sauce over the enchiladas, sprinkle cheese, and bake until bubbly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these beef enchiladas with red sauce! Swap ground beef for shredded chicken or beans for a vegetarian option. air fryer chicken recipe Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika to elevate flavors. You can even toss in some veggies for extra crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover beef enchiladas with red sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave them for a quicker option.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best beef enchiladas with red sauce, always use freshly grated cheese for optimal meltiness.
- Don’t overload your tortillas; less is more when it comes to filling.
- Lastly, let the assembled enchiladas sit for a few minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
The first time I made beef enchiladas with red sauce was during a family gathering. Everyone raved about them and I felt like a culinary rockstar that day!
FAQs:
What are beef enchiladas with red sauce?
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a delicious Mexican dish that features tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef, rolled up, and then topped with a rich, flavorful red sauce. The sauce typically consists of tomatoes, chili peppers, and spices, creating a vibrant and satisfying flavor profile. chili cheese bake slow cooker chili recipe They are often garnished with cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro, making them a popular choice for family dinners or gatherings.
How do you make the red sauce for beef enchiladas?
To make the red sauce for beef enchiladas, start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Then add crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and salt to the pan. Simmer the mixture for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Blend the sauce until smooth if you prefer a creamier texture. This homemade red sauce enhances the flavor of your beef enchiladas beautifully.
Can I use leftovers for beef enchiladas?
Absolutely! Using leftovers is a great way to create beef enchiladas with red sauce. Simply shred or chop leftover cooked beef and mix it with some seasoning before rolling it into tortillas. The red sauce will add moisture and flavor to the dish. This not only minimizes food waste but also allows you to enjoy a new meal with minimal effort.
What sides pair well with beef enchiladas?
Beef enchiladas with red sauce pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them alongside Mexican rice or refried beans for a hearty meal. A fresh salad topped with avocado and lime vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the enchiladas nicely. For a refreshing touch, try adding some pickled jalapeños or sliced radishes on the side.
Conclusion for beef enchiladas with red sauce:
In summary, beef enchiladas with red sauce are an enticing Mexican dish that brings together flavorful ingredients in a satisfying way. From preparing a rich homemade red sauce to using leftovers creatively, this recipe offers versatility and deliciousness. Whether served at family gatherings or enjoyed as leftovers during the week, these enchiladas promise to be a hit! Embrace this delightful recipe for an unforgettable meal experience. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole Recipe recipe.
Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef enchiladas with red sauce offer a delicious blend of savory ground beef, zesty red sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in soft tortillas. This comforting Mexican dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, providing an irresistible experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Easy to prepare and versatile, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Drain excess fat and season with cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds to make them pliable.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla and roll tightly. Place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour red enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas and sprinkle shredded cheeses generously on top.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas (320g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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