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Classic Cheesy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce

Name: Classic Cheesy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for extra spice); 8-10 medium flour or corn tortillas; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

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Classic Cheesy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce are a delightful and satisfying dish that embodies the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. These enchiladas, with their creamy cheese and hearty beef filling enveloped in tortillas, provide a warm hug on a plate. Over the years, I’ve crafted this recipe not only to celebrate the traditional tastes but to simplify it for busy weeknights. Everyone loves a good meal that brings family and friends together, making this dish a staple in my kitchen.

Table of Contents

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to try making Classic Cheesy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce at home. They’re notably quick to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. Budget-friendly ingredients keep costs low while ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. This dish is not only a family favorite but is also a hit during gatherings and holidays, bringing smiles all around.

“Delicious! These enchiladas are my go-to for gatherings. Everyone loves them!”

How to Make Classic Cheesy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce

In essence, preparing these enchiladas involves cooking the beef filling, assembling the tortillas with cheese, and baking them in a luscious red sauce. The process is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in a meal that delights both the palate and the soul.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious enchiladas, you’ll need the following:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for extra spice)
8-10 medium flour or corn tortillas
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep your filling from being too oily.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the beef mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they’re pliable. Take a spoonful of the beef filling and place it on each tortilla. Sprinkle generously with a mix of both cheeses, then roll the tortillas tightly.

Step 4: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Arrange the rolled enchiladas seam side down in a baking dish. Pour the red enchilada sauce over them, making sure they’re completely covered. Finish off by sprinkling the reserved shredded cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the enchiladas for about 20-25 minutes, or until you see the cheese bubbling and turning golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, take them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, you can garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

How to Serve Classic Cheesy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce

For the perfect serving, plate your enchiladas hot, and consider adding sides like Mexican rice or refried beans. A dollop of sour cream and fresh avocado can elevate the experience, adding contrasting textures and flavors.

How to Store

If you have leftovers, store your enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you wish to freeze them, make sure they’re cooled completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Properly stored, they can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, ensure they reach a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tips to Make

Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to experiment with your spices! Adding a touch of cayenne for additional heat or some fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors can make a significant difference.
Layering Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle some cheese on top of the filling before rolling the tortillas as well.
Shortcut Option: If you’re short on time, pre-cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken works well in place of ground beef.

Variations

Feel free to switch things up! Consider using ground turkey or even a vegetarian filling with black beans and sautéed bell peppers for a lighter option. Top with different cheese blends for unique flavors or use green enchilada sauce for a fresh twist.

Conclusion

Creating Classic Cheesy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce is not only delicious but also a fun cooking experience that brings joy to the table. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations with us! Your kitchen deserves this hearty delight.

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for cooking and baking, so you can enjoy a complete meal in under an hour.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas work wonderfully and provide a traditional flavor.

What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 months. Just ensure to reheat properly before serving.