There’s something magical about beef enchiladas with red sauce that makes your taste buds dance like no one’s watching. Picture this: tender, seasoned beef wrapped lovingly in soft corn tortillas, all blanketed under a rich red sauce that whispers promises of flavor. Each bite is a fiesta of spices, textures, and aromas, making you wish you’d invited more friends to share.
Now, let me take you on a little journey down memory lane. I remember the first time I attempted to make these delightful enchiladas; my kitchen turned into a battleground! With flour flying and laughter filling the air, my family gathered around to taste the fruits of my labor. The joy on their faces when they took that first bite was worth every spilled ingredient. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, beef enchiladas with red sauce are always the star of the show!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These beef enchiladas with red sauce are incredibly easy to prepare even for novice cooks
- Bursting with savory flavors, they tantalize your taste buds from the first bite
- The vibrant red sauce adds an appealing touch that brightens any dinner table
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week!
I still chuckle remembering how my dog tried to “help” during my first attempt at this recipe, thinking he could snag a tortilla or two.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy enchiladas without excess grease.
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Corn Tortillas: Opt for fresh corn tortillas; they hold up better when filled and sauced.
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Red Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought works fine, but homemade adds a personal touch and depth.
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Onion: Finely chopped onion enhances flavor; sauté until translucent for the best results.
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Cheese: Shredded cheese of your choice adds creaminess; I recommend Monterey Jack for its melting qualities.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
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Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices provide the signature flavor profile that makes enchiladas irresistible.
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Sour Cream (optional): A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the spice beautifully!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into this flavorful adventure!
Cook the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and onions turn translucent.
Add Spices: Stir in cumin and chili powder while cooking. Let these spices mingle with the meat for about two minutes until aromatic.
Prepare Your Tortillas: In a separate pan, lightly warm corn tortillas until pliable – this prevents them from tearing when you fill them.
Assemble Your Enchiladas: Spoon some beef filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Pour on the Sauce: Generously drizzle red enchilada sauce over your rolled tortillas; don’t be shy – we want them swimming in deliciousness!
Bake Away!: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Just try not to drool too much while waiting!
Enjoy your homemade beef enchiladas with red sauce fresh out of the oven! They’re sure to impress everyone at your table.
You Must Know
- Beef enchiladas with red sauce are not just delicious; they can transform any ordinary dinner into a fiesta
- The combination of rich flavors and the warmth of spices will have you dreaming of sunny days in Mexico
- Pair them with a side of rice for an epic meal!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect beef enchiladas with red sauce, start by prepping your filling while the sauce simmers on low heat. This multitasking makes everything come together seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your beef enchiladas by swapping ground beef for shredded chicken or adding black beans for extra texture and flavor. Personal touches make each dish unique!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover beef enchiladas with red sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh herbs like cilantro and adjust spice levels according to your taste preference
- You can also experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist!
Memories flood back when I think about the first time I made these enchiladas for my family; their smiles were worth every effort, and my grandmother’s secret spice blend made it unforgettable.
FAQ
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas lend a traditional flavor and are gluten-free.
What can I substitute for beef?
Ground turkey or lentils work well as healthy alternatives to beef in this recipe.
How do I make my enchiladas spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick!
Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a culinary delight that brings warmth and flavor to any table. These savory treats feature tender ground beef nestled in soft corn tortillas, all smothered in a rich, zesty red sauce. Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready for a fiesta of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 fresh corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in cumin and chili powder, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Warm corn tortillas in a separate pan until pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour red enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using homemade enchilada sauce. Customize your enchiladas by substituting ground beef with shredded chicken or adding black beans for extra texture.