Delicious Beef Enchiladas You Can Make in 45 Minutes

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Beef Enchiladas are a delightful Mexican dish that never fails to impress at the dinner table. With a rich blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and black beans wrapped in soft tortillas, these enchiladas are smothered in a homemade sauce that elevates every bite. Topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro, they create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a weekday dinner or a festive family gathering, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Enchiladas

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Beef Enchiladas recipe! First, it’s incredibly satisfying, making it a hearty meal for the family. The use of seasoned ground beef enchiladas adds a flavor punch that is irresistible. These enchiladas can be made easily at home, allowing you to control the ingredients, which is perfect for those seeking healthy beef enchiladas alternatives. The recipe is also versatile—whether you prefer cheesy beef enchiladas or spicy beef enchiladas, you can customize it to your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors without stepping out!

Ingredients for Beef Enchiladas

Gather these items:

1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp cumin powder
1 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp dried oregano
1/2 – 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
2 cups (500ml) low sodium chicken stock/broth
1 1/2 cups (375 ml) tomato passata or 1 can (8 oz) canned tomato sauce
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, finely chopped (~1 cup)
1 lb (500g) ground beef (mince)
400g (14oz) refried beans (1 can)
400g (14oz) black beans, drained (1 can)
8 tortillas or burrito wraps
1.5 cups (150g) grated melting cheese
Cilantro/coriander leaves, roughly chopped (optional garnish)

How to Make Beef Enchiladas Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine the onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Set this spice mix aside to use in the sauce and filling.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute until it just starts to colour. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock to avoid lumps. Add the tomato passata or canned tomato sauce, then season with salt and pepper. Add half of the prepared spice mix to the sauce. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: In another pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned through, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in the remaining half of the spice mix, refried beans, and drained black beans. Cook together for another 5 minutes until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Spoon generous amounts of the beef and bean filling onto each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top, covering all the enchiladas.
Step 6: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is heated through.
Step 7: Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with roughly chopped cilantro or coriander leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious beef enchiladas!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Beef Enchiladas

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh tortillas for a better texture and flavor.
Don’t overload the tortillas; they can break when rolling.
Allow the enchiladas to cool slightly before serving to avoid sogginess.
Experiment with different sauces, like beef enchiladas with green sauce or red sauce, to find your favorite!

Best Ways to Serve Beef Enchiladas

These enchiladas can be served in various delightful ways:

Pair them with a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Top with a dollop of sour cream and fresh avocado for a creamy touch.
For a twist, serve them as a beef enchilada casserole, layering the ingredients in a dish for an easy bake.

How to Store and Reheat Beef Enchiladas

To store leftovers, cover the enchiladas tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, place them in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, which is an ideal method to maintain their texture. Meal prep these enchiladas to enjoy a homemade dinner on busy nights!

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Enchiladas

What’s the secret to perfect Beef Enchiladas?

The secret lies in the seasoning of the ground beef and the quality of the enchilada sauce. Using homemade sauce enhances the flavor dramatically, making your enchiladas unforgettable!

Can I make Beef Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and sauce ahead of time. Just assemble the enchiladas when you’re ready to bake them, making it a quick meal option for busy days.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Beef Enchiladas?

To prevent soggy enchiladas, ensure the tortillas are warmed just enough to be pliable but not overly moist. Also, avoid overfilling them to keep them intact during baking.

Variations of Beef Enchiladas You Can Try

There are numerous ways to customize your Beef Enchiladas:

Try a spicy beef enchiladas version by adding jalapeños to the filling.
Make them healthier by using ground turkey or adding veggies like bell peppers.
For a vegetarian alternative, substitute beef with black beans or lentils, making it a wholesome meal.

For more delicious recipes, check out deliciously unique dishes and comforting meals that you can enjoy with your family!