If you’re a fan of Tex-Mex cuisine, you’re going to love this beef enchilada green sauce recipe. With its rich, savory filling and tangy green sauce, this dish is a hit for any meal or occasion. The combination of ground beef, homemade green enchilada sauce, and warm corn tortillas creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a casual weekday meal.
Choosing the Right Main Ingredient
The star of this recipe is the ground beef. Choosing high-quality ground beef is essential for the best flavor and texture. Look for beef that is fresh and has a good fat-to-lean ratio, ideally 80/20. This will ensure your enchiladas are juicy and flavorful.
Questions About Seasoning
Seasoning is crucial to achieving the authentic Tex-Mex flavor in your beef enchiladas. You’ll need chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder as the primary spices. These spices provide a robust and aromatic base that complements the green enchilada sauce perfectly. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding chopped jalapenos can give your enchiladas an extra kick.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
To make this beef enchilada green sauce recipe, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment:
- Skillet: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Casserole Dish: To assemble and bake the enchiladas.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients and mixing the enchilada filling.
- Tongs or Spatula: To handle the tortillas and cooked ingredients.
- Oven: For baking the enchiladas to perfection.
How to Use Equipment Effectively
Using your equipment effectively can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips:
- Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the ground beef. This helps in achieving a good sear, which locks in the flavor.
- Casserole Dish: Grease your casserole dish lightly to prevent the enchiladas from sticking. This also makes cleanup easier.
- Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients to avoid cross-contamination and make the preparation process more organized.
- Tongs or Spatula: Use these tools to handle hot tortillas without tearing them. This is especially important when rolling the enchiladas.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature before baking. This ensures even cooking and a perfect finish.
Comprehensive Recipe for Beef Enchilada Green Sauce
Beef Enchilada Green Sauce
Beef Enchilada Green Sauce Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of tender ground beef, zesty green enchilada sauce, and warm tortillas creates a symphony of flavors that’s simply irresistible. This dish brings comfort and joy, making it perfect for any gathering or family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup homemade green enchilada sauce
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 jalapenos, chopped (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in half of the chopped cilantro and remove from heat.
Prepare the Tortillas:
- In a separate skillet, lightly fry each corn tortilla until soft and pliable.
- Place the tortillas on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Grease a casserole dish with a little oil.
- Spread a small amount of homemade green enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Take one tortilla, add a scoop of the beef mixture, sprinkle with cheese, and roll it up.
- Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the casserole dish.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Top the Enchiladas:
- Pour the remaining green enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled enchiladas.
- Sprinkle the rest of the shredded Mexican cheese over the sauce.
- Garnish with the remaining chopped cilantro and jalapenos if using.
Bake the Enchiladas:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Allow the enchiladas to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
6Amount Per Serving:Calories: 350Total Fat: 15gSodium: 700mgCarbohydrates: 30gFiber: 5gProtein: 20g
Serving Suggestions and Suitable Side Dishes
Beef enchiladas smothered in green sauce pair perfectly with various Tex-Mex side dishes. Here are some recommendations:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy and flavorful, it complements the enchiladas well.
- Mexi-Corn Salad: A refreshing side with sweet corn, tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing.
- Crock-Pit Pinto Beans: Hearty and comforting, these beans are a great addition to the meal.
- Candlelite Inn Guacamole Salad: Creamy guacamole adds a cool contrast to the spicy enchiladas.
- Watermelon Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing side dish to balance the rich flavors.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and cilantro will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the jalapenos. For more heat, add extra chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Prevent Soggy Tortillas: Lightly frying the tortillas helps prevent them from becoming soggy when baked.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overstuffing the tortillas to ensure they roll up neatly and bake evenly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Beef: Cook the beef until it’s just browned. Overcooking can make it dry and tough.
- Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and optimal results.
- Not Using Enough Sauce: Make sure the enchiladas are well-covered in sauce to prevent them from drying out.
- Crowding the Dish: Leave a little space between each enchilada to allow even heat distribution.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect beef enchilada green sauce recipe is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. By following these steps and tips, you can make a dish that’s not only tasty but also impressive. Enjoy your homemade beef enchiladas with family and friends, and savor the rich Tex-Mex flavors that make this dish a favorite.
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.