Beef enchiladas with red sauce are like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: soft tortillas wrapped around tender beef, all smothered in a rich, zesty red sauce that sends your taste buds dancing. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather round, forks ready and stomachs growling in anticipation.
I remember the first time I made beef enchiladas with red sauce for my family. They erupted into cheers, and my brother even declared it “the best thing since sliced bread”—and trust me, he doesn’t hand out compliments lightly! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, these enchiladas are sure to steal the show and leave everyone begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for beef enchiladas with red sauce is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory beef and tangy sauce that will tantalize your taste buds
- Visually stunning, they bring vibrant colors to your dinner table
- These enchiladas are versatile enough for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive celebrations
Growing up, my mom made these beef enchiladas with red sauce every Friday night. The smell would fill our house, and we could hardly wait to dig in.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
-
Tortillas: Corn tortillas provide an authentic taste; choose fresh ones if possible for the best texture.
-
Red Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade will elevate the dish significantly.
-
Onions: Sweet onions add depth; sauté them until translucent for maximum flavor.
-
Cheese: A blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the top.
-
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro as a garnish enhances freshness and adds color.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onions and measure out your spices—this makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Sauté Onions and Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until they become translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
Add Seasoning and Sauce: Once the beef is browned, stir in spices like cumin and chili powder along with half of the enchilada sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Assemble Enchiladas: Take each tortilla and place a spoonful of the beef mixture inside. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Generously sprinkle cheese on top—you want that gooey goodness!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
These steps will guide you through creating delicious beef enchiladas with red sauce that will impress family or guests alike. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a culinary hug, blending rich flavors and textures
- They’re perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in
- The aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the table
- Plus, they reheat beautifully, making leftovers a delightful treat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the beef until it’s browned and crumbly. While it cools, prepare the tortillas and sauce simultaneously for an efficient cooking experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or lentils for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different cheeses or add black beans for extra protein and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making beef enchiladas with red sauce, use freshly made tortillas if possible; they taste incredible
- Don’t overfill your tortillas, as they may burst during baking
- Let them rest after baking to help flavors meld beautifully
Sharing my love for beef enchiladas with red sauce reminds me of family dinners filled with laughter and stories. Those moments truly make cooking worthwhile.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Try ground turkey or lentils as great alternatives in beef enchiladas with red sauce.
Can I freeze beef enchiladas?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly before freezing to maintain freshness and flavor.
How do I make my red sauce spicier?
Add jalapeños or chili powder to your red sauce for an extra kick in your enchiladas.
Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. Soft corn tortillas are filled with savory ground beef, sautéed onions, and a zesty homemade red sauce, then topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these enchiladas are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. With vibrant colors and rich flavors, they’re a delightful way to enjoy a classic Mexican meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté chopped onions in a skillet over medium heat until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in half of the enchilada sauce along with spices like cumin and chili powder; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
