When it comes to comfort food with a kick, nothing beats a delicious beef enchilada. This Tex-Mex staple combines the rich, savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, homemade green enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas. It’s a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even special occasions. The taste is a delightful mix of spicy, cheesy goodness with a hint of freshness from ingredients like cilantro and jalapenos.
Choosing the Right Main Ingredient
The Star of the Show: Ground Beef
The key to an excellent beef enchilada recipe is selecting the right ground beef. Look for high-quality beef with a balanced fat content. An 80/20 mix (80% lean meat, 20% fat) is ideal because it offers a good flavor without being too greasy. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 works well too, but you might need to add a bit more oil or sauce to keep the filling moist and flavorful.
The Importance of Freshness
Always choose fresh beef for the best taste. Freshly ground beef ensures that your enchilada filling is tender and flavorful. If possible, buy your beef from a reputable butcher who can provide freshly ground meat.
The Perfect Seasoning
Spice it Right: Seasoning Questions Answered
Seasoning is crucial in a beef enchilada recipe. The right combination of spices can elevate your dish from good to extraordinary. Commonly used spices include chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. For an authentic Tex-Mex flavor, incorporate Texas chili powder, which has a unique blend of spices that give a robust, smoky taste.
How Much is Enough?
Start with the basics: 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference. Don’t forget the fresh ingredients like diced white onion and minced garlic for added depth of flavor.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
Must-Have Tools for Beef Enchiladas
- Large Skillet: Essential for browning ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic.
- Mixing Bowls: Useful for combining ingredients and preparing the enchilada filling.
- Casserole Dish: A must for baking your enchiladas to perfection.
- Spatula or Spoon: For stirring and combining the ingredients.
- Oven: To bake the enchiladas at the right temperature.
- Blender or Food Processor: Ideal for making homemade green enchilada sauce.
How to Use Equipment Effectively
Large Skillet: Heat the skillet over medium-high heat before adding the ground beef. This ensures even cooking and helps develop a nice browned exterior, enhancing the flavor. Stir occasionally to break up the meat and prevent sticking.
Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease the casserole dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent the enchiladas from sticking. Arrange the rolled tortillas seam-side down to keep them intact during baking.
Blender/Food Processor: For the green enchilada sauce, blend ingredients until smooth. This ensures a consistent texture and allows the flavors to meld perfectly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
Comprehensive Beef Enchilada Recipe
Beef Enchilada Recipe
Beef Enchilada Recipe: This beef enchilada recipe is my go-to comfort food. It perfectly blends savory ground beef, zesty homemade green enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas. Each bite is a burst of Tex-Mex flavor that brings warmth and joy to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Texas chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- For the Enchiladas:
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 2 cups homemade green enchilada sauce (see below)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Sliced jalapenos (optional)
Homemade Green Enchilada Sauce:
- 2 cups tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves
- 1/2 white onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 cup water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a casserole dish with cooking spray or oil.
Making the Green Enchilada Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine tomatillos, jalapeno, cilantro, onion, garlic, and water.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into a saucepan, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. Add salt to taste.
Preparing the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, Texas chili powder, and tomato sauce. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes until well combined.
Assembling the Enchiladas:
- Warm the corn tortillas to make them pliable. You can do this by microwaving them for 30 seconds or heating them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef filling onto each tortilla.
- Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared casserole dish.
Baking:
- Pour the homemade green enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are well covered.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnishing:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapenos if desired.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
4Amount Per Serving:Calories: 450Total Fat: 22gCarbohydrates: 35gFiber: 5gSugar: 4gProtein: 28g
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the beef enchiladas hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and jalapenos for an added kick.
Suitable Side Dishes:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices. It complements the enchiladas perfectly.
- Mexi-Corn Salad: A refreshing side dish made with corn, tomatoes, onions, and a zesty lime dressing.
- Crock-Pot Pinto Beans: Slow-cooked pinto beans flavored with spices, making them a hearty addition to the meal.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds a cooling contrast to the spicy enchiladas.
Useful Cooking Tips
Cooking Tips:
- Warm Tortillas: Warming the tortillas makes them easier to roll without cracking.
- Avoid Overfilling: Overfilling the tortillas can make them difficult to roll and cause the filling to spill out.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and cilantro enhance the flavor of the dish significantly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Not Draining Excess Fat: If the ground beef is too greasy, it can make the enchiladas oily and heavy.
- Skipping the Sauce: The sauce is essential for adding moisture and flavor. Ensure the enchiladas are well-covered.
- Overcooking: Overbaking can dry out the enchiladas. Keep an eye on them and remove from the oven once the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect beef enchilada recipe doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right ingredients, proper seasoning, and a bit of technique, you can make a delicious, hearty meal that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, beef enchiladas are always a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a flavorful Tex-Mex feast that’s both satisfying and delicious.
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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.