There’s something magical about a plate of beef enchiladas with red sauce that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket of flavor. The way the tortillas hug seasoned beef, swimming in a pool of spicy, rich sauce is nothing short of culinary poetry. Just thinking about it makes me drool like a kid at a candy store.
Growing up, my family would gather for taco night—an event that often morphed into an impromptu enchilada fiesta. As I rolled those tortillas around the tasty filling, I realized that cooking was more than just following recipes; it was about creating memories and laughter around the dinner table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These beef enchiladas with red sauce are incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights
- The deep flavors will impress even the pickiest eaters
- A feast for the eyes as much as the palate!
- You can customize the fillings based on dietary preferences or what you have in your pantry
Unforgettable memories unfold whenever I serve these enchiladas—a chorus of “yum” echoes around the table while my friends and family fight over the last one!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best here; you want flavor without excess grease.
- Onion: Use a diced onion for sweet undertones; it caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds punch; always good to have an extra clove or two on hand.
- Canned Tomato Sauce: Look for low-sodium options; this forms the base of your mouthwatering red sauce.
- Chili Powder: This spice brings warmth; adjust to your taste for mild or fiery flavors.
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional; they soak up flavors without falling apart.
- Cheese: Shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack) makes everything better when melted on top.
- Sour Cream: Optional but recommended for garnish; it adds creaminess and balances out spiciness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preparation of Filling: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat before adding diced onions and minced garlic.
Add Flavorings: Stir in chili powder and canned tomato sauce into the skillet with cooked meat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened and aromatic fills your kitchen.
Prepare Tortillas: While your filling simmers away happily, warm tortillas in another skillet or microwave until pliable—this prevents them from cracking when rolling.
Assemble Enchiladas: Take each tortilla and spoon some filling down its center. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish—this is where they’ll get cozy!
Add Red Sauce and Cheese: Pour remaining tomato sauce over rolled tortillas generously. Sprinkle shredded cheese all over like it’s confetti at a celebration—you deserve this!
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to achieve that golden cheesy crust we all love.
With these steps, you’ll have deliciously cheesy beef enchiladas with red sauce ready to wow everyone at your next meal! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a delightful way to impress your guests
- The combination of tender beef and zesty sauce creates an explosion of flavors
- These enchiladas are perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, warming hearts and bellies alike
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef, then prepare the sauce while assembling the enchiladas for efficiency. This method ensures every component is hot and ready at serving time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or beans for a vegetarian twist. Adding black olives or jalapeños can enhance the flavor profile even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, keeping the sauce moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality tortillas to prevent tearing during assembly
- Smothering them with enough sauce helps keep everything moist and flavorful
- Also, don’t skip letting them rest; it helps meld the flavors beautifully
Sharing my first batch of beef enchiladas with friends was a game-changer; they devoured them, asking for seconds and thirds!
FAQ
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas work well but may need more care when rolling.
How can I make a spicier red sauce?
Add fresh chilies or cayenne pepper to your red sauce for an extra kick.
What sides go well with beef enchiladas?
Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for balance.
Easy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of these easy beef enchiladas with red sauce, a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Canned tomato sauce
- Chili powder
- Corn tortillas
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until onions are soft.
- Stir in chili powder and canned tomato sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Heat tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
- Spoon filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour remaining tomato sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to melt cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (180g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
