This article provides a comprehensive guide to a delicious beef cheese enchilada recipe. Understanding the components and steps involved ensures a consistently satisfying outcome. The recipe balances savory beef filling with the creamy richness of cheese, all enveloped in warm tortillas. Proper preparation techniques, outlined below, lead to perfectly cooked enchiladas with a delightful textural contrast. This recipe is easily adaptable to individual preferences and dietary needs.
A well-executed beef cheese enchilada recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying culinary experience. The recipe’s versatility allows for customization, catering to diverse palates and ingredient availability. Mastering this dish opens the door to exploring a range of Mexican-inspired cuisine. The step-by-step instructions provided aim to demystify the process, making it accessible even to novice cooks. This recipe’s popularity stems from its comforting nature and adaptability to different cooking styles.
The combination of tender beef and melted cheese within soft tortillas creates a dish that is both satisfying and enjoyable. Careful attention to the preparation of each componentfrom the seasoned beef to the perfectly layered enchiladasensures an exceptional result. The final baked enchiladas boast a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The instructions below offer a clear path to culinary success. The recipe is adaptable and allows for creativity in ingredient choices.
Ingredients for the Beef Cheese Enchilada Recipe
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
Instructions for the Beef Cheese Enchilada Recipe
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
- Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture and 1-2 tablespoons of shredded cheese.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-down in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Estimated Time and Servings for this Beef Cheese Enchilada Recipe
The following table provides the estimated cooking time and number of servings for this recipe. Accurate timing depends on oven temperature and individual cooking preferences. Properly following the recipe steps ensures a consistent outcome, regardless of slight variations. This detailed information aims to enhance the user experience, contributing to a successful culinary endeavor. Adapting serving sizes is easily achieved by adjusting ingredient quantities proportionally. The recipe is designed to be adaptable to various culinary needs.
Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings |
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30 minutes | 25 minutes | 55 minutes | 6-8 |
Nutritional Information for this Beef Cheese Enchilada Recipe
This section provides an estimated nutritional breakdown of the recipe. The exact values can vary slightly depending on specific ingredients and brands used. It is important to note these figures are approximate and should not replace professional nutritional advice. Understanding these estimates allows for informed dietary choices. Consult a registered dietitian for personalized dietary guidance. The information below aims to provide helpful context and support informed decision-making.
The nutritional profile reflects the substantial protein content from the beef and the calcium and fat content from the cheese. The vegetable components contribute essential vitamins and minerals. Individual dietary needs and preferences should guide consumption of this dish. Always consider portion sizes when analyzing nutritional information. Its important to note that this is just an approximation.
Tips for Cooking and Baking This Beef Cheese Enchilada Recipe
Several techniques and considerations can elevate the final dish, ensuring a culinary triumph. These tips are designed to provide guidance and enhance the cooking experience, leading to an exceptional result. Proper preparation and attention to detail will be rewarded with deliciously satisfying enchiladas. Remember, adapting the recipe is encouraged to suit personal preferences.
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Use high-quality ingredients:
Selecting flavorful beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and rich enchilada sauce forms a foundation for a truly delicious outcome. The quality of these key components directly impacts the final flavor profile. Consider using organic ingredients when possible to enhance both taste and nutritional value. Experiment with different cheese varieties to customize the flavor experience.
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Don’t overcook the beef:
Overcooked beef can become dry and tough, compromising the overall texture of the enchiladas. Aim for a slightly browned and tender consistency for optimal results. Properly draining excess grease after browning the beef is also crucial for avoiding a greasy final product. Monitoring the cooking process prevents overcooking and preserves moisture. Adjusting cooking time as needed prevents both undercooking and overcooking issues.
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Warm the tortillas:
Warming the tortillas before filling prevents them from cracking or breaking during the rolling process. This simple step significantly improves the ease of handling and the final presentation. Warming can be done using several methods, such as microwaving, steaming or pan-frying briefly. Consider your preferred method based on time and resource availability.
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Layer the enchiladas carefully:
Neatly arranging the filled enchiladas in the baking dish promotes even cooking and a visually appealing final presentation. Proper layering ensures uniform coverage with the enchilada sauce and prevents any areas from being over- or undercooked. This detailed step contributes to an enjoyable culinary experience. Careful arrangement yields a visually appealing final product.
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Use a baking dish that’s the right size:
An appropriately sized baking dish ensures sufficient space for the enchiladas to be fully submerged in sauce and prevents spills during baking. Selecting the proper dish size aids in even cooking and ensures even sauce distribution. The dish size should match the recipes intended yield for optimal cooking results. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and dry edges.
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Garnish generously:
A generous garnish of fresh cilantro, diced onions, or sour cream elevates the presentation and adds a welcome burst of freshness to the dish. Simple garnishes significantly enhance both the visual appeal and overall culinary experience. Consider using additional toppings like sliced olives or jalapeos to provide additional flavor and texture. A final sprinkle of cheese before serving also complements the dish effectively.
The success of this beef cheese enchilada recipe hinges on paying attention to detail during each step. From ingredient selection to careful layering, these efforts contribute to a final product that is both flavorful and satisfying. The versatility of this recipe permits adjustments to suit individual taste preferences, making it a kitchen staple. Mastering the technique opens the door to countless variations and adaptations.
This versatile recipe caters to diverse culinary preferences and skill levels. Its adaptability extends beyond the core ingredients, allowing for a wide range of creative customization. The detailed steps aim to ensure a consistently successful and enjoyable culinary experience. Its simplicity masks a depth of flavor that will delight.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Beef Cheese Enchilada Recipe
This section addresses common queries regarding preparation and execution, aiming to guide users towards a seamless culinary experience. Understanding these frequently asked questions aids in successful execution and addresses potential challenges. Clear answers provide troubleshooting and enhance overall user confidence.
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Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with various cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses. The cheese selection influences both flavor and texture; experimenting can lead to exciting culinary discoveries. Consider using a combination of cheeses to achieve a complex and nuanced flavor profile. The versatility allows for personalization to individual preferences.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the beef filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assembling the enchiladas can also be done ahead of time and kept refrigerated until ready to bake. Preparing components in advance saves time and allows for efficient cooking when guests arrive. Remember to bring the enchiladas to room temperature before baking for optimal results. Proper refrigeration prevents spoilage and preserves quality.
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What if my tortillas break?
If tortillas break, carefully piece them back together. The enchilada sauce will help hold them in place during baking. While avoiding breakage is ideal, minor imperfections won’t significantly impact the final product. Using warmed tortillas reduces the risk of breakage. The enchilada sauce acts as a binder for any broken pieces.
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How can I make it spicier?
Add more chili powder, or include a diced jalapeo or serrano pepper to the beef filling for increased heat. Adjusting the spice level is a simple way to personalize the recipe. Using a spicier enchilada sauce also intensifies the heat. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Always start with a small amount of additional spice and adjust to taste.
This beef cheese enchilada recipe provides a foundation for culinary creativity and exploration. The adaptability of the recipe allows for seamless integration into various culinary styles and preferences. With careful attention to detail and a willingness to experiment, this dish promises a consistently delightful experience.
In conclusion, mastering this recipe opens the door to a world of flavor and culinary satisfaction. The combination of rich beef, melted cheese, and flavorful sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. By following these guidelines, one can confidently create delicious and memorable enchiladas.