There’s something magical about the aroma of beef enchiladas with red sauce wafting through your kitchen. Imagine biting into a warm tortilla, filled with savory seasoned beef, wrapped snugly like a cozy burrito blanket. The rich, tangy red sauce drizzled on top is like a warm hug for your taste buds.
I remember the first time I made these enchiladas for my family. They were skeptical at first, but after one bite, their expressions changed from doubt to delight, proving that love really does come in the form of gooey cheese and spiced meat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These beef enchiladas with red sauce are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor
- Their vibrant presentation will wow your guests and brighten any dinner table
- Plus, they are incredibly versatile; you can serve them as a main course or make them the star of a potluck
I still chuckle when I think about how my cousin tried to eat three servings in one sitting – that’s how irresistible these enchiladas are!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; finely chop it for even cooking.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor; don’t be shy with it!
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Tortillas: Corn tortillas work best for authenticity; look for sturdy ones that won’t tear easily.
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Red Enchilada Sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade; opt for one with a kick if you like heat.
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Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts beautifully; feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
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Olive Oil: A splash helps sauté the onions and beef perfectly.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness; sprinkle on top before serving for extra flair.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add the Beef and Garlic: Stir in the ground beef and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as you go, about 5-7 minutes.
Spice it Up!: Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you fancy (like cumin or chili powder). Let those spices mingle and dance together for 2-3 minutes.
Prepare the Tortillas: In another pan or microwave, warm your tortillas briefly until pliable but not crispy. This prevents tearing when rolling them up.
Assemble the Enchiladas: Spoon some of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour red enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas generously. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top like a delicious snowstorm ready to melt into perfection.
Bake to Perfection!: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoying these beef enchiladas with red sauce is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket after a long day. Whether served at family gatherings or enjoyed solo on a cozy night in, they promise comfort and satisfaction. Bon appétit!
You Must Know
- Beef enchiladas with red sauce are the ultimate comfort food
- Rich, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, they can be a showstopper at any gathering or cozy dinner
- The aroma of simmering beef and spices will fill your kitchen, making everyone eager for a bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef in a skillet, then prepare your filling while it simmers. Assemble enchiladas and pour red sauce over them before baking for perfectly melted cheese.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture. You can also swap the beef for shredded chicken or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until bubbly to enjoy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making beef enchiladas with red sauce, always use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor
- A good quality tortilla will hold up better than thinner options
- Don’t skip letting the flavors meld during simmering; it makes all the difference!
Sharing my first attempt at these enchiladas was memorable; my friends devoured them like they were going out of style! They still talk about that night and ask when I’ll make them again.
FAQ
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, flour tortillas can work but might yield a different texture in beef enchiladas with red sauce.
How can I make my red sauce tastier?
Enhance your red sauce with cumin, garlic powder, or a splash of lime juice for added zing.
Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble them a day in advance and bake just before serving to save time.
Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for any occasion. These savory rolls of seasoned ground beef, wrapped in warm corn tortillas and topped with rich red sauce and melted cheese, promise to satisfy your cravings. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they make an ideal main dish for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent.
- Add ground beef and minced garlic; cook until beef is browned (5-7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Warm tortillas until pliable to prevent tearing.
- Spoon beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour red enchilada sauce over tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
