Beef Enchiladas With Red Sauce
Indulge in the comforting and savory world of beef enchiladas with red sauce. This dish combines tender beef, melty cheese, and a zesty red sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas. Ideal for any occasion, these enchiladas are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings, with a preparation time of 20 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 enchilada) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g of protein, 18g of fat, and 30g of carbohydrates. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and mix in half of the red enchilada sauce.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry pan for a few seconds on each side.
- Spoon beef mixture into each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- Place rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Top with remaining enchilada sauce and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian option. Additionally, use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving and Pairings
Beef enchiladas pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or baked in the oven until heated through. You can freeze enchiladas before baking for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the beef can make it dry; cook just until browned.
- Using cold tortillas can lead to cracking; warm them first.
- Not enough sauce can result in dry enchiladas; ensure a good amount is used.
- Skimping on cheese can make the dish less flavorful; be generous!
- Forgetting to cover the dish can lead to burnt edges; cover with foil if needed.
Helpful Tips
- Chop vegetables finely for quicker cooking.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and jalapeños for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas; they will be softer but will still taste great in this recipe.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add heat, include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in the beef mixture or sauce.
What can I serve with enchiladas?
Enchiladas are delicious with sides like Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad, enhancing the meal experience.
Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
What can I do with leftover enchiladas?
Leftover enchiladas can be stored in the fridge or freezer and reheated for a quick meal later on.
Conclusion
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a delightful, comforting dish that brings a taste of Mexico to your home. With tender beef, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, they are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this delicious meal!

Beef Enchiladas With Red Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 10 oz red enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and mix in half of the red enchilada sauce.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry pan for a few seconds on each side.
- Spoon beef mixture into each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- Place rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Top with remaining enchilada sauce and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.