There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of ground beef enchiladas with red sauce wafting through your home. Picture this: tender tortillas wrapped around savory ground beef, smothered in rich, zesty red sauce, and topped with melted cheese. Just thinking about it makes my taste buds dance like a mariachi band at a fiesta.
Reflecting on my childhood, these enchiladas always made an appearance during family gatherings. My grandmother would whip them up with such flair, turning the kitchen into a culinary stage. Every bite felt like a warm hug from her, making them the highlight of any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, these enchiladas promise to be the star of the show.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for ground beef enchiladas with red sauce is easy enough for weeknight dinners
- The robust flavors will impress everyone at your table
- Visually appealing and loaded with melty cheese, they are comfort food at its finest
- Perfect for customizing based on personal tastes or dietary needs
I still remember my brother’s face lighting up when he took that first bite of these enchiladas. It was as if I had just given him a treasure map to flavor town.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it provides great flavor without excess fat.
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Tortillas: Corn tortillas work best; they hold together beautifully when filled and rolled.
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Red Enchilada Sauce: Opt for either homemade or store-bought; either way, ensure it’s packed with flavor.
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Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives that gooey texture we all love.
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Onions: Sautéed onions add sweetness; use yellow onions for the best results.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile dramatically; never skip this essential ingredient.
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Spices: Cumin and chili powder are must-haves to infuse those authentic Mexican flavors.
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 so you can easily access them while cooking. Chop the onions finely and mince the garlic to enhance their flavors in the dish.
Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and add in onions and garlic until fragrant.
Add Spices and Sauce: Sprinkle in cumin and chili powder while stirring in that delicious red enchilada sauce. Let simmer for about 5 minutes; this melds those wonderful flavors together beautifully.
Assemble Your Enchiladas: On each tortilla, place a generous scoop of the beef mixture and roll tightly. Arrange them seam-side down in a greased baking dish; this helps keep everything together.
Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour any remaining red sauce over the rolled enchiladas generously, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. A cheesy blanket will melt perfectly during baking!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top; this is when those enticing aromas will take over your kitchen!
And there you have it—your very own batch of delightful ground beef enchiladas with red sauce! Serve hot with fresh cilantro or sour cream as optional toppings.
Now go ahead, gather your loved ones around the table, and dig into these scrumptious enchiladas! Enjoy every bite as you share stories filled with laughter—after all, food tastes better when shared!
You Must Know
- Ground beef enchiladas with red sauce are comfort food that warms the heart and soul
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere
- Plus, these enchiladas are perfect for sharing, making them a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the ground beef until browned, then prepare your red sauce while assembling tortillas with cheese and meat for optimal efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans. Experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder to make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate your ground beef enchiladas with red sauce, taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for enhanced flavor
- Don’t skip letting the enchiladas rest before serving; it helps meld flavors beautifully
Sharing a plate of these delightful enchiladas during a family gathering sparked laughter and compliments, reminding me how food truly connects people.
FAQ
Can I use other meats for my enchiladas?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or shredded chicken works wonderfully in this recipe.
What should I serve with ground beef enchiladas?
Pair them with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make my enchiladas spicier?
Add diced jalapeños to the filling or mix hot sauce into the red sauce for extra heat.
Ground Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Ground Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce are a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table. Tender corn tortillas envelop a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions, and garlic, all smothered in zesty red enchilada sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, these enchiladas are sure to delight everyone around the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink (about 7-10 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and red enchilada sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- On each tortilla, place a scoop of the beef mixture; roll tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas and sprinkle with shredded cheeses.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
