Arabella Lombardi Beef enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. They are made with corn tortillas that are filled with a savory beef filling and then topped with a flavorful chili sauce. Enchiladas are a great way to use up leftover beef, and they can be customized to your liking by adding different toppings or fillings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 (16 ounce) can chili sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in the black beans, corn, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 15 minutes.
- Spread 1/2 cup of the sauce in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Dip each tortilla in the remaining sauce and fill with about 1/4 cup of the beef filling.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with the cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve with sour cream, if desired.
Tip 1: Use a lean ground beef to reduce the amount of grease in the dish.
Tip 2: Add other vegetables to the filling, such as zucchini, squash, or mushrooms.
Tip 3: Use a different type of chili sauce, such as a green chili sauce or a mole sauce.
Tip 4: Top the enchiladas with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper Jack, or queso fresco.
Tip 5: Serve the enchiladas with different toppings, such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
Tip 6: Make the enchiladas ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.
Tip 7: Freeze the enchiladas for later use.
Tip 8: Get creative with your enchiladas and experiment with different flavors and ingredients.
Benefits:
- Beef enchiladas are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- They are a relatively easy and inexpensive dish to make.
- They can be customized to your liking by adding different toppings or fillings.
- They are a great way to use up leftover beef.
Summary:
Beef enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. They are also a great way to use up leftover beef. With a little creativity, you can make beef enchiladas that are sure to please everyone at your table.
Recipe for Beef Enchiladas
Beef enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that is made with corn tortillas filled with a savory beef filling and topped with a chili sauce. They are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Here are six key aspects of the recipe for beef enchiladas:
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for beef enchiladas. They are sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking, but they are also soft and pliable.
- Filling: The filling for beef enchiladas is typically made with ground beef, onions, peppers, and spices. Other ingredients, such as beans, corn, or cheese, can also be added to the filling.
- Sauce: The sauce for beef enchiladas is typically made with a chili sauce or a tomato sauce. The sauce should be flavorful and slightly spicy.
- Cheese: Cheese is a common topping for beef enchiladas. It adds flavor and richness to the dish. Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or queso fresco cheese are all good choices for beef enchiladas.
- Toppings: Beef enchiladas can be topped with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.
- Baking: Beef enchiladas are typically baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
These six key aspects are essential for making delicious and authentic beef enchiladas. By following these tips, you can create a dish that is sure to please everyone at your table.
1. Tortillas
The choice of tortillas is an important factor in the success of a beef enchilada recipe. Corn tortillas are the traditional choice because they are sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking, but they are also soft and pliable, which makes them easy to roll up. Other types of tortillas, such as flour tortillas, are not as sturdy and can easily break when rolled up.
The size of the tortillas is also important. Small tortillas are easier to roll up, but they can also be more difficult to fill. Large tortillas are easier to fill, but they can be more difficult to roll up without breaking. The ideal size for beef enchiladas is a tortilla that is about 6 inches in diameter.
The quality of the tortillas is also important. Fresh, high-quality tortillas will produce the best enchiladas. Avoid using tortillas that are dry or stale, as they will be more likely to break when rolled up.
By following these tips, you can choose the perfect tortillas for your beef enchiladas.
2. Filling
The filling is one of the most important components of beef enchiladas. It is what gives the dish its flavor and texture. The traditional filling for beef enchiladas is made with ground beef, onions, peppers, and spices. However, there are many variations on this recipe, and other ingredients, such as beans, corn, or cheese, can also be added to the filling.
- Ground beef: Ground beef is the most common type of meat used in beef enchiladas. It is a versatile ingredient that can be seasoned to taste. Other types of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, can also be used.
- Onions: Onions add flavor and texture to the filling. They can be chopped, diced, or minced. Other vegetables, such as bell peppers, jalapeos, or corn, can also be added to the filling.
- Spices: Spices are essential for giving the filling its flavor. Common spices used in beef enchiladas include chili powder, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. Other spices, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, can also be added to the filling.
- Beans: Beans are a common addition to beef enchiladas. They add protein and fiber to the dish. Black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans are all good choices for beef enchiladas.
- Corn: Corn is another common addition to beef enchiladas. It adds a sweet flavor and texture to the dish. Fresh corn, canned corn, or frozen corn can all be used.
- Cheese: Cheese is a popular topping for beef enchiladas. It adds flavor and richness to the dish. Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or queso fresco cheese are all good choices for beef enchiladas.
The filling for beef enchiladas is a versatile component that can be customized to taste. By experimenting with different ingredients and spices, you can create a filling that is perfect for your taste buds.
3. Sauce
The sauce is an essential component of beef enchiladas. It provides flavor and moisture to the dish, and it helps to hold the enchiladas together. A good sauce will be flavorful and slightly spicy, with a consistency that is not too thick or too thin.
There are two main types of sauce that are typically used for beef enchiladas: chili sauce and tomato sauce. Chili sauce is made with a blend of chili peppers, tomatoes, and spices. It has a slightly spicy flavor and a deep red color. Tomato sauce is made with tomatoes, onions, and spices. It has a milder flavor and a brighter red color.
The type of sauce that you use for your beef enchiladas is a matter of personal preference. However, it is important to choose a sauce that is flavorful and slightly spicy. A bland sauce will not do justice to the other ingredients in the dish.
Here are some tips for making a great sauce for beef enchiladas:
- Use a variety of chili peppers to create a complex flavor.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices.
- Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste the sauce as you cook it and adjust the seasonings as needed.
With a little practice, you can make a delicious sauce that will take your beef enchiladas to the next level.
Conclusion
The sauce is an important component of beef enchiladas. It provides flavor and moisture to the dish, and it helps to hold the enchiladas together. By following the tips above, you can make a delicious sauce that will take your beef enchiladas to the next level.
4. Cheese
Cheese is a common topping for beef enchiladas because it adds flavor and richness to the dish. It also helps to hold the enchiladas together and prevents them from becoming dry. There are many different types of cheese that can be used for beef enchiladas, but some of the most popular include cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and queso fresco cheese.
- Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that has a sharp, slightly tangy flavor. It is a good choice for beef enchiladas because it melts well and has a strong flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients in the dish.
- Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-soft cheese that has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is a good choice for beef enchiladas because it melts well and has a creamy texture that adds richness to the dish.
- Queso fresco cheese is a fresh cheese that has a mild, slightly salty flavor. It is a good choice for beef enchiladas because it melts well and has a crumbly texture that adds a bit of texture to the dish.
When choosing a cheese for beef enchiladas, it is important to consider the flavor and texture of the cheese. The cheese should be flavorful enough to stand up to the other ingredients in the dish, but it should not be so strong that it overpowers the other flavors. The cheese should also have a texture that melts well and does not become rubbery when cooked.
Cheese is an essential component of beef enchiladas. It adds flavor, richness, and texture to the dish. By choosing the right cheese, you can create beef enchiladas that are both delicious and visually appealing.
5. Toppings
Toppings are an essential part of beef enchiladas. They add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to the dish. There are many different types of toppings that can be used for beef enchiladas, but some of the most popular include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and pico de gallo.
- Sour cream is a classic topping for beef enchiladas. It adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the dish. Sour cream can also be used to make a simple sauce for the enchiladas.
- Guacamole is another popular topping for beef enchiladas. It adds a fresh, flavorful, and creamy texture to the dish. Guacamole can be made with a variety of ingredients, but the most common ingredients include avocados, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Salsa is a great way to add flavor and spice to beef enchiladas. Salsa can be made with a variety of ingredients, but the most common ingredients include tomatoes, onions, peppers, and chili peppers. Salsa can be mild, medium, or hot, so choose a salsa that suits your taste buds.
- Pico de gallo is a type of salsa that is made with fresh, chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Pico de gallo is a great topping for beef enchiladas because it adds a fresh, flavorful, and crunchy texture to the dish.
The toppings that you choose for your beef enchiladas are a matter of personal preference. However, it is important to choose toppings that will complement the other ingredients in the dish. For example, if you are using a spicy salsa, you may want to use a milder sour cream or guacamole to balance out the flavors.
Toppings are a great way to add your own personal touch to beef enchiladas. So experiment with different toppings and find the combinations that you enjoy the most.
6. Baking
Baking is an essential step in the recipe for beef enchiladas. It is what gives the enchiladas their characteristic texture and flavor. Without baking, the enchiladas would be soggy and unappetizing.
The baking process also helps to meld the flavors of the different ingredients in the enchiladas. The beef, cheese, and sauce all come together to create a delicious and satisfying dish.
In addition, baking helps to brown the cheese on top of the enchiladas. This adds a crispy texture and a rich flavor to the dish.
The baking time for beef enchiladas will vary depending on the recipe. However, most recipes call for baking the enchiladas for 20-30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the enchiladas are baked, they should be allowed to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Baking is an essential step in the recipe for beef enchiladas. It is what gives the enchiladas their characteristic texture and flavor. By following the baking instructions carefully, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that your family and friends will love.
A recipe for beef enchiladas is a set of instructions for preparing a dish consisting of corn tortillas filled with a savory mixture of beef, cheese, and other ingredients, and topped with a chili sauce. Enchiladas are a popular dish in Mexican cuisine and are often served with rice and beans.
The origins of enchiladas are unclear, but they are thought to have originated in central Mexico. The word “enchilada” comes from the Nahuatl word “chllaptzalli”, which means “chilli-filled”. Enchiladas were traditionally made with corn tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients, including beans, cheese, and meat. The tortillas were then dipped in a chili sauce and baked.
Today, there are many different variations on the classic beef enchilada recipe. Some recipes call for using flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas. Others add different ingredients to the filling, such as vegetables, rice, or beans. The chili sauce can also be varied, with some recipes using a mild sauce and others using a spicy sauce.
Beef enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Enchiladas can also be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve, making them a convenient meal option for busy families.
FAQs about Beef Enchiladas
Beef enchiladas are a popular Mexican dish that is made with corn tortillas filled with a savory beef filling and topped with a chili sauce. They are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. However, there are some common questions that people have about beef enchiladas.
Question 1: What is the best type of tortilla to use for beef enchiladas?
Answer: Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for beef enchiladas. They are sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking, but they are also soft and pliable. Flour tortillas can also be used, but they are not as traditional.
Question 2: What is the best type of beef to use for beef enchiladas?
Answer: Ground beef is the most common type of beef used for beef enchiladas. It is a versatile ingredient that can be seasoned to taste. Other types of beef, such as ground turkey or chicken, can also be used.
Question 3: What is the best type of cheese to use for beef enchiladas?
Answer: Cheddar cheese is the most common type of cheese used for beef enchiladas. It is a good choice because it melts well and has a strong flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients in the dish. Other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack cheese or queso fresco cheese, can also be used.
Question 4: What is the best type of chili sauce to use for beef enchiladas?
Answer: The type of chili sauce that you use for beef enchiladas is a matter of personal preference. However, it is important to choose a sauce that is flavorful and slightly spicy. A bland sauce will not do justice to the other ingredients in the dish.
Question 5: How do I make sure that my beef enchiladas are cooked through?
Answer: The best way to make sure that your beef enchiladas are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the filling and cook the enchiladas until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Question 6: Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you can make beef enchiladas ahead of time. Assemble the enchiladas and then cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the enchiladas for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake the enchiladas according to the recipe instructions.
These are just a few of the most common questions that people have about beef enchiladas. By following these tips, you can make delicious and authentic beef enchiladas that your family and friends will love.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you know the answers to some of the most common questions about beef enchiladas, you are ready to start cooking! In the next section, we will provide you with a step-by-step recipe for beef enchiladas.
Conclusion
Beef enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Enchiladas can also be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve, making them a convenient meal option for busy families.
In this article, we have explored the history, ingredients, and preparation of beef enchiladas. We have also provided answers to some of the most common questions that people have about this dish. We hope that this information has been helpful and that you will enjoy making and eating beef enchiladas.
We encourage you to experiment with different ingredients and recipes to find the perfect beef enchilada recipe for your taste buds. There are many different ways to make this dish, so don’t be afraid to get creative. With a little practice, you can create a delicious and authentic beef enchilada dish that your family and friends will love.
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