Irresistible Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce Recipe

Name: Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 8 flour tortillas; 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese; 1 cup sour cream (for topping); 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish); 1/2 cup diced onions; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

July 14, 2025

Updated:

July 14, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of beef enchiladas with red sauce wafting through your kitchen. Imagine tender, seasoned beef wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a rich, spicy red sauce that makes your taste buds dance. Every bite is a fiesta of flavors that transports you straight to a sun-soaked Mexican plaza.

As I reminisce about my childhood, I remember the first time I tasted enchiladas at my abuela’s house. She would whip up these heavenly delights every Sunday, filling the air with spices and love. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively game night with friends, these enchiladas bring everyone together for a delicious experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This beef enchiladas with red sauce recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will impress your guests

The vivid colors and textures make it visually appealing on any table setting
Perfect for weeknight dinners yet special enough for gatherings, it never disappoints

Customize the spice level to suit your taste preferences for a truly enjoyable meal

I remember the first time I made these enchiladas; my friends couldn’t get enough and kept asking for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a flavorful filling without the extra grease.
Soft Tortillas: Flour tortillas are perfect for wrapping; opt for fresh ones if possible.
Red Enchilada Sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade—just ensure it’s rich and flavorful.

Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
Sour Cream: This adds a cool contrast to the spicy enchiladas at serving time.
Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives your dish a vibrant finish; don’t skip it!

Diced Onions: Saute them until translucent for sweetness that enhances the meat’s flavor.
Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These spices add depth and warmth to your beef mixture.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with diced onions until fragrant and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add Spices and Sauce: Sprinkle cumin and chili powder over the beef mixture, stirring well before adding half of the red enchilada sauce. Cook until heated through.

Assemble Your Enchiladas: Lay out each tortilla flat and fill with some beef mixture. Roll them up tightly before placing them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they’re covered completely. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Serve Warm with Toppings: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with sour cream and chopped cilantro. Serve hot!

With these simple steps, you’ll have saucy beef enchiladas ready to impress anyone lucky enough to join you at dinner!

You Must Know

This beef enchiladas with red sauce recipe is perfect for family gatherings
The combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and zesty sauce creates a symphony of flavors

Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, making your dinner party planning a breeze

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef and seasoning it well. Then, prepare the red sauce while the beef cooks. Assemble the enchiladas and bake until bubbly for perfectly melted cheese.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap beef for shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian twist. Add extra spices or toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for personalized flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain that cheesy goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly rolled enchiladas, warm tortillas before filling; they’re less likely to tear

Don’t skimp on the sauce; it keeps everything moist and flavorful
Let them rest a few minutes after baking for easier serving and better flavor melding

The first time I made these enchiladas, my friends declared me a “culinary wizard.” Little did they know I was just following this simple recipe!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I use instead of beef in this recipe?

Shredded chicken or sautéed vegetables work well as tasty alternatives to beef.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and assemble enchiladas a day before baking; just refrigerate them.

How do I make the red sauce from scratch?

Combine tomatoes, chili powder, garlic, and onion in a blender for an easy homemade sauce.

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