The Best Homemade Beef Enchilada Recipe

Mouthwatering homemade beef enchiladas packed with flavor—discover the secret to making the best version of this classic dish.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This beef enchilada recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to make, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen.

  • Rich and savory filling with seasoned beef, cheese, and a touch of spice.
  • Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
  • Customizable to fit your family’s tastes, from topping choices to spice levels.

Recipe

flavorful beef enchiladas recipe

Beef enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish featuring flavorful ground beef, savory sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
  4. Stir in the enchilada sauce, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of a baking dish.
  6. Fill each tortilla with a portion of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
  7. Pour the remaining sauce over the enchiladas and top with the rest of the cheese.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream, if desired.

Notes:

  • For a spicier version, use hot enchilada sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

Equipment:

  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing spoon
  • Measuring spoons

Time:

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 25 minutes

Cuisine:

Mexican

Serving:

Serves 4

Nutrition

This beef enchilada recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 350 kcal
Protein 18 g
Carbohydrates 30 g
Fat 16 g
Fiber 4 g
Sodium 800 mg

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my beef enchiladas with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a zesty corn salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget an invigorating drink—I’m a fan of a cold horchata or a tangy margarita to balance the flavors. These combos make the meal feel special and keep everyone coming back for more.

Side Dishes

When I’m serving beef enchiladas, I always think about balancing the meal with sides that complement their rich, savory flavor. I love pairing them with spicy rice—it’s got just enough kick to match the enchiladas without overpowering them. Cheesy potatoes are another favorite; they’re creamy, comforting, and add a delicious texture contrast. Sometimes I’ll throw in a fresh salad or some guacamole to brighten things up. Don’t forget warm tortillas or cornbread for scooping up every last bite. These sides make the meal feel complete, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends!

Beverage Pairings

Since beef enchiladas pack bold, spicy flavors, you’ll want drinks that can stand up to them without clashing. For a wine selection, I’d recommend a fruity red like Zinfandel or Malbec—they’re rich enough to complement the dish without overwhelming it. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works wonders. Beer choices are just as exciting—I love pairing enchiladas with a malty amber ale or a citrusy IPA, which balance the heat beautifully. And if you’re skipping alcohol, a tangy agua fresca or cold horchata with cinnamon is invigorating and hits the spot every time!

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