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## **How to Make Beef Enchiladas**
### **Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling**
Start by heating a **large skillet** over medium-high heat. Add the **ground beef** and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the **onion** and **garlic** to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the **enchilada seasoning** (or taco seasoning) and **salsa**. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld together. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
### **Step 2: Warm the Tortillas**
Next, you’ll want to soften your **corn tortillas** to prevent them from breaking when rolled. You can do this by lightly frying them in a small amount of **olive oil** in a skillet over medium heat for about 10-20 seconds per side. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving in 20-second intervals until soft and pliable.
### **Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas**
Preheat your **oven** to 375°F (190°C).
Spread about 1/2 cup of **enchilada sauce** in the bottom of a **9×13-inch baking dish** to prevent sticking.
Take each tortilla and spoon a portion of the beef mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with a small handful of **shredded cheese** (about 2 tablespoons). Roll the tortilla up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, arranging them in a single layer.
Once all the enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the remaining **enchilada sauce** over the top, making sure the tortillas are generously coated. Sprinkle the remaining **cheese** evenly over the top of the enchiladas.
### **Step 4: Bake the Enchiladas**
Cover the baking dish with **foil** and bake the enchiladas in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the tortillas start to crisp up.
### **Step 5: Garnish and Serve**
Remove the enchiladas from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with **fresh cilantro** and serve with a side of **sour cream**, **guacamole**, or **salsa** for added flavor.
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## **Tips for the Best Beef Enchiladas**
1. **Use Lean Ground Beef**: While fattier beef can add more flavor, lean beef is usually the better option for a healthier dish. If you want extra flavor, you can add a bit of extra seasonings to the beef.
2. **Homemade Enchilada Sauce**: If you prefer a more robust sauce, making your own **enchilada sauce** is easy and well worth the effort. The spices and fresh ingredients can really elevate the dish and make it taste extra special.
3. **Cheese Options**: While cheddar cheese is the most common cheese for enchiladas, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as **Monterey Jack**, **pepper jack**, or a **Mexican blend** for more flavor and depth.
4. **Make It Spicy**: If you like heat, consider adding a diced **jalapeño** or using a spicier enchilada sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of **chili flakes** or a dash of **hot sauce** on top before serving.
5. **Add Vegetables**: You can sneak in extra veggies like **bell peppers**, **zucchini**, or **corn** into the beef mixture for added texture and nutrition.
6. **Freezer-Friendly**: Beef enchiladas are great for meal prep! Assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, simply bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
Beef Enchiladas are a filling meal on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of sides to complete the meal:
– **Mexican Rice**: A serving of flavorful **Mexican rice** is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with enchiladas.
– **Refried Beans**: Creamy **refried beans** (either black or pinto) make a great accompaniment to your enchiladas.
– **Guacamole and Chips**: For a bit of crunch and creamy texture, serve the enchiladas with **guacamole** and tortilla chips.
– **Mexican Street Corn (Elote)**: Roasted corn on the cob, slathered with mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder, is a fun and flavorful side.
– **Fresh Salad**: A light, fresh salad with a **lime vinaigrette** adds a crisp contrast to the richness of the enchiladas.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Beef Enchilada Recipe** is a perfect dish to enjoy any day of the week. The combination of savory beef, melty cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce makes for a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a weeknight meal, or a casual gathering, these enchiladas are sure to impress everyone at the table.
With easy-to-follow steps, customizable ingredients, and the option to prep ahead, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients and make these Beef Enchiladas today—you’ll be glad you did!
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