The aroma of sizzling beef wafts through the air as you prepare these delicious beef enchiladas with red sauce. Picture your favorite Mexican restaurant—the vibrant colors and tantalizing spices—right in your kitchen! The combination of tender beef wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in rich, spicy red sauce will surely make your taste buds dance.
Now imagine it’s a cozy Sunday evening; family gathers around the table, laughter fills the air, and there’s nothing but anticipation for that first bite of cheesy bliss. These enchiladas are more than just dinner; they’re an experience that brings people together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These easy-to-make beef enchiladas offer a savory flavor explosion that’ll leave everyone wanting more
- The vibrant colors and textures make them a feast for the eyes too!
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings
Sharing these beef enchiladas at my last family gathering had everyone asking for seconds—and I may have even been declared the “Enchilada Queen” by my uncle!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option that still packs a flavorful punch.
- Tortillas: Flour or corn tortillas work well; I prefer corn for authenticity and texture.
- Red Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade adds an extra layer of love and flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates that gooey finish we all crave.
- Sour Cream: A dollop on top balances the spice beautifully.
- Onion: Sautéed onions add sweetness and depth; choose yellow onions for the best results.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle enhances flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
- Cumin: This spice brings warmth and earthiness to your dish!
- Olive Oil: For sautéing; it helps bring out flavors without burning.
- Fresh Cilantro (optional): Chopped cilantro adds freshness and color as a garnish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While you’re at it, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it.
Sauté the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent. Then add ground beef along with garlic powder and cumin until fully cooked.
Prepare Tortillas for Filling : Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave briefly until pliable. This prevents tearing when rolling them up.
Assemble Enchiladas : Spoon some of the meat mixture onto each tortilla. Roll tightly like burritos and place seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.
Add Red Sauce & Cheese : Pour the red enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?
Bake to Perfection : Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve hot from the oven with sour cream and fresh cilantro sprinkled on top!
Enjoying these fabulous beef enchiladas with red sauce is like taking a little trip to Mexico right from your dining room! They make any weeknight feel special or could steal the show at your next family gathering. Trust me; everyone will be asking you for that secret recipe!
You Must Know
- Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a crowd-pleaser; their rich flavors and satisfying textures make them irresistible
- The aroma of simmering beef and spices fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, they never disappoint
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the beef filling first, then prepare the enchilada sauce while it simmers. Assemble everything in a baking dish for optimal flavor melding.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Adding extra cheese or diced jalapeños can elevate your enchiladas further.
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 warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly rolled enchiladas, soften tortillas in hot oil briefly to prevent tearing
- Ensure your sauce is flavorful; taste and adjust seasoning before assembling
- Use plenty of cheese on top for that irresistible gooeyness
Cooking these beef enchiladas with red sauce reminds me of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last piece, leading to laughter and culinary debates.
FAQ
What type of beef is best for enchiladas?
Ground chuck or sirloin works best due to its balance of flavor and fat content.
Can I freeze beef enchiladas with red sauce?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking for easy meal prep later.
How long should I bake my enchiladas?
Bake your assembled enchiladas at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Delicious Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a delicious Mexican favorite, featuring tender beef wrapped in tortillas and covered with a rich, spicy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Red enchilada sauce
- Cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Onion
- Garlic powder
- Cumin
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add ground beef, garlic powder, and cumin; cook until browned.
- Warm tortillas in a pan or microwave until pliable.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour red enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake 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 (170g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
