Cheesy Beef Enchiladas Recipe 🌮🧀

Description

This enchiladas recipe may not be authentic, but it’s packed with flavor and has been a family favorite for over 50 years! My mom found it in a women’s magazine decades ago, and ever since then, it has become a cherished dish in our household. Every bite is a delightful combination of cheesy goodness, savory beef, and a hint of southwestern spice. If you’re looking for a comforting meal that brings a taste of the southwest to your kitchen, this is the perfect recipe to try. 🌶️🌽🧅

Recipe Overview

Category: Cheese
Keywords: Meat, Southwestern U.S., < 60 Mins, Oven, Stove Top
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 947.6 kcal per serving
Yield: Serves approximately 4-6 people

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 947.6 kcal
Fat Content: 56.7 g
Saturated Fat Content: 31.2 g
Cholesterol Content: 229.8 mg
Sodium Content: 1749.7 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 41.9 g
Fiber Content: 7.4 g
Sugar Content: 10.8 g
Protein Content: 68.5 g

Time Required

Preparation Time	Cooking Time	Total Time
30 minutes	30 minutes	1 hour

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef 🥩
1/2 tsp garlic granules 🧄
Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
2 onions, chopped 🧅
3 cups tomato sauce 🍅
1/2 tsp dried oregano 🌿
1/2 tsp chili powder 🌶️
1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional) 🌰
1/2 tsp dried rosemary 🌿
12 corn tortillas 🌽
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese 🧀
Additional chopped onion (optional) 🧅
Chopped black olives (optional) 🫒

Instructions

Prepare the Beef Mixture:
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- Crumble the lean ground beef into a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic granules, salt, and pepper to taste. 🌿🧄
- Cook partially, then add the chopped onions. Continue cooking and stirring occasionally until the onions become translucent. Remove from heat and set aside. 🧅
Make the Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, dried oregano, chili powder, ground cumin (if using), dried rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste. 🌶️🍅
- Simmer for about 10 minutes, adjusting the seasonings as necessary. Let the sauce cool to lukewarm. 🫕
Prepare the Tortillas:
- Dip each corn tortilla in the lukewarm sauce to soften slightly. Let the excess sauce drip back into the pan. 🌽
Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Place a heaping tablespoon of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, followed by an equal amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. 🧀
- If desired, sprinkle with a little raw chopped onion and chopped black olives for extra flavor. 🧅🫒
- Roll each tortilla tightly and place them seam-side down on a baking sheet. 🌯
Bake the Enchiladas:
- Pour the remaining sauce over the enchiladas, making sure they are well covered. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. 🧀
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the enchiladas are heated through and bubbly. 🔥
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped onions and black olives if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, beefy delight! 🥳🌮🧅🫒

Tips for the Perfect Enchiladas

Tortillas: Use fresh corn tortillas for the best texture and flavor. If they are too dry, warm them slightly in a microwave or on a skillet before dipping them in the sauce.
Cheese: Mix and match different cheeses if you prefer. A combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and even a little queso fresco can add depth to the flavor.
Sauce: If you like your enchiladas spicier, feel free to add more chili powder or even a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

These enchiladas pair beautifully with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans. You can also serve them with a fresh salad topped with avocado and lime for a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of guacamole on top! 🥑🍚

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for about 2 minutes.

Fun Fact

Did you know that enchiladas originated in Mexico and were first mentioned in Aztec writings? They were originally made by rolling corn tortillas around small fish and serving them with chili sauce. Over time, the dish evolved and diversified, leading to the countless variations we enjoy today! 🏺🇲🇽

Let’s Dive into the Enchiladas Experience 🌯💃

The magic of this enchilada recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its flavors. The savory beef, melded with the rich tomato sauce and melty cheese, creates a mouthwatering symphony that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, these enchiladas will deliver every time.

The Journey of Flavors

The ground beef, seasoned with garlic and sautéed onions, provides a hearty base for the enchiladas. The tomato sauce, simmered with a blend of oregano, chili powder, cumin, and rosemary, infuses each bite with a deep, satisfying flavor. The corn tortillas, softened in the sauce, hold everything together, while the melted cheese on top adds a gooey, irresistible finish.

Customizing Your Enchiladas

One of the beauties of enchiladas is their versatility. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
Go Veggie: Substitute the beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
Add Beans: Black beans or pinto beans make a great addition for added protein and fiber.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a unique twist.

Creating a Fiesta 🌟

Why not turn your enchilada night into a full-blown fiesta? Here are a few tips to make your meal even more festive:

Drinks: Serve with margaritas or a refreshing agua fresca.
Side Dishes: Prepare a spread of Mexican sides like elote (Mexican street corn), guacamole, and pico de gallo.
Dessert: Finish the meal with churros or flan for a sweet treat.

A Meal to Remember

Every bite of these enchiladas is a reminder of the rich culinary traditions that inspire us. The combination of textures and flavors, from the tender beef to the crispy edges of the tortillas, is a celebration of good food and good company. Whether you’re reminiscing about the first time you tried them or sharing them with someone new, these enchiladas are more than just a meal – they’re a cherished memory in the making.

Final Thoughts

Cooking these enchiladas is a labor of love that rewards you with a dish full of flavor and nostalgia. It’s a recipe that’s stood the test of time in our family, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours too. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious experience. Buen provecho! 🌮🧀🥳