Name: Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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The moment you sink your teeth into a plate of beef enchiladas with red sauce, you’re greeted with a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The tender beef, wrapped snugly in warm tortillas, is smothered in a rich, tangy red sauce that sings of smoky spices and a hint of heat. pork chops with bold spices tacos with similar ingredients Your kitchen fills with the aroma of sizzling garlic and onions as you prep this mouthwatering dish, making it impossible to resist.

I remember the first time I made these enchiladas; my friends couldn’t get enough. It was one of those evenings where laughter flowed as freely as the red sauce! Now, every time I whip up this recipe, it transports me back to that night filled with joy and deliciousness. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a hungry Sunday, these enchiladas will bring everyone together at the table, creating memories worth savoring. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Patty Melts Recipe recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These beef enchiladas with red sauce are easy to prepare and sure to impress
The rich flavor profile promises an explosion of taste in every bite
Visually appealing with vibrant colors, they make any meal feel special
Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings

I once made these enchiladas for a family gathering and watched as my cousin nearly inhaled his serving. His delighted face still makes me chuckle—it’s a memory I cherish every time I make this dish.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a balanced flavor without excessive grease. It provides the perfect savory base for your enchiladas.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional and add authenticity. Choose fresh ones if possible—they hold up better when filled.
Red Enchilada Sauce: Purchase store-bought or make your own; either way, look for one with deep flavors to elevate your dish significantly.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of Cheddar and Monterey Jack works wonderfully here. It melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
Onion: Diced onions add sweetness and crunch; sauté them until they turn golden brown for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the overall taste—don’t skimp on this must-have ingredient!
Cilantro (optional): For garnish, fresh cilantro brings brightness and freshness to the plate. Use it if you’re feeling fancy!

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 on the countertop. Chop the onion and mince the garlic so everything is ready when you start cooking. This helps keep things organized and makes it easier to focus on creating those delightful enchiladas.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions first; sauté until they become translucent and sweet-smelling, about 5 minutes. Then toss in minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Cook the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook until browned through, about 7-10 minutes while breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary—the goal is flavorful filling without drowning in grease.

Add Seasoning and Sauce: Sprinkle in your favorite taco seasoning mix along with salt and pepper to taste; stir well to combine flavors evenly. Pour in half of your red enchilada sauce into the meat mixture; let it simmer for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Assemble Your Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Take one tortilla at a time, spoon some beef filling down its center, roll it up tightly, then place seam-side down in a baking dish—repeat until all filling is used! Pour remaining red sauce over assembled enchiladas generously before topping them with shredded cheese.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil then bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden—this is where all that cheesy goodness comes together beautifully!

Now you have a plate full of mouthwatering beef enchiladas with red sauce that not only look stunning but also taste absolutely divine! Serve them hot garnished with fresh cilantro if desired—and don’t forget extra salsa or guacamole on the side for dipping! barbecue salmon for dinner.

Enjoy every last bite!

You Must Know

Mastering beef enchiladas with red sauce means balancing flavors and textures
Remember to use the freshest ingredients you can find, as they significantly enhance taste
The aroma of sizzling beef combined with spices is enough to make anyone’s mouth water

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The best way to create your beef enchiladas with red sauce is by preparing the filling first. Start by browning the beef and then make your red sauce while it simmers. This way, everything comes together perfectly without any stress.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your beef enchiladas with red sauce by incorporating different cheeses or adding veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor. chicken enchiladas variation You can even swap ground beef for shredded chicken or turkey if you want a lighter option. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Chicken Spring Rolls recipe.

Storing & Reheating

To store your beef enchiladas with red sauce, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they maintain their deliciousness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a perfect consistency, ensure your filling isn’t too wet; otherwise, your tortillas may become soggy
Always warm tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent tearing
Experiment with spice levels to find your perfect heat!

Cooking these beef enchiladas became a family tradition after my cousin declared them “the best thing ever.” I still chuckle thinking about our epic taco nights filled with laughter and competitive eating challenges.

FAQ

Can I make beef enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble beef enchiladas with red sauce in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover tightly and bake when ready for a quick meal.

What sides pair well with beef enchiladas?

Beef enchiladas pair beautifully with Mexican rice or refried beans. You can also serve a fresh avocado salad or chips and salsa for a complete meal experience.

How do I know when my enchiladas are done cooking?

Your beef enchiladas are ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on the edges of the tortillas; they should be crisp but not burnt for optimal texture.