Beef Enchilada Recipe - Easy Homemade Enchiladas

Craving a delicious and comforting Mexican dish? Look no further! Beef enchiladas are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their rich flavor and satisfying texture. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect beef enchiladas at home.

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet of taco seasoning mix or homemade seasoning blend (cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper)
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 cup corn kernels (optional)

For the Enchilada Sauce:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1/4 cup chili powder
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 10 oz tomato paste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Shortcut: Store-bought enchilada sauce can be used if you’re short on time.

For Assembly:

• 8-10 flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef Filling

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add Onions and Garlic:

• Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onions are translucent.

3. Season the Beef:

• Stir in the taco seasoning mix (or your homemade blend). Add black beans and corn if using. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Making the Enchilada Sauce

1. Create a Roux:

• In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until it turns golden brown.

2. Add Spices and Broth:

• Stir in the chili powder, followed by the chicken broth, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Assembling the Enchiladas

1. Choose the Right Tortillas:

• Use flour tortillas for a softer texture or corn tortillas for a more traditional flavor. Warm them in a microwave or on a stove to make them pliable.

2. Fill the Tortillas:

• Spoon a generous amount of the beef filling into each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

3. Add Sauce and Cheese:

• Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Baking to Perfection

1. Bake the Enchiladas:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your beef enchiladas hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
• Pair with sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Beef enchiladas are a timeless favorite that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen. We hope you enjoy making and eating this delightful dish as much as we do! If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!