Best Easy Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

An easy ground beef enchilada recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. This recipe prioritizes simplicity and ease of preparation without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for home cooks of all skill levels. The straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients ensure a consistently enjoyable culinary experience. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the recipe, including ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips to ensure success. The recipe is designed for versatility, allowing for customization to individual preferences.

The appeal of this recipe lies in its balance of convenience and taste. The use of readily available ingredients reduces preparation time and complexity, making it a practical choice for busy schedules. Despite its simplicity, the recipe produces a flavorful and satisfying dish that rivals more elaborate versions. The straightforward method allows even novice cooks to achieve excellent results, building confidence in the kitchen. The resulting enchiladas are both comforting and satisfying, a testament to the effectiveness of this streamlined approach.

The adaptable nature of this recipe allows cooks to easily modify the ingredients and spices to reflect personal preferences. This encourages culinary experimentation and allows for the creation of a truly personalized dish. Whether serving a small family or a larger group, the recipe can be easily scaled to accommodate different needs. This makes it a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire, offering a reliable and flexible option for a quick and flavorful meal.

Ingredients for an Easy Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
• 1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions for an Easy Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain off excess fat.
2. Add onion, diced tomatoes, Rotel, enchilada sauce, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Preheat oven to 350F (175C).
4. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Fill each tortilla with approximately 1/4 cup of the beef mixture.
6. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-down in the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
8. Sprinkle with cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for this Easy Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

This easy ground beef enchilada recipe requires approximately 45 minutes of active preparation and cooking time. The recipe yields approximately 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. The table below summarizes this information.

Nutritional Information for this Easy Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

This recipe provides a balanced meal with a good source of protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the tortillas. The addition of vegetables in the Rotel contributes to the nutritional value. However, it’s important to be mindful of sodium content due to the canned ingredients. A precise nutritional breakdown will vary depending on the specific brands used. The following table offers an approximate estimate based on common ingredient values.

While a precise nutritional analysis requires specialized software and precise ingredient specifications, this table provides a general estimate based on average values for the ingredients listed. It’s recommended to use a nutritional calculator with specific brand information for more accurate data.

Tips for Cooking this Easy Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

Following these tips can enhance the overall flavor and texture of your enchiladas.

1. Use quality ground beef:

   Opting for a higher fat content in the ground beef will result in richer flavor and juicier enchiladas. Ensure the beef is thoroughly browned to eliminate any potential bacterial concerns. Properly draining excess grease is crucial for preventing an overly greasy final product. Consider using a leaner ground beef blend to reduce fat and calories if desired. Seasoning the beef well before cooking enhances overall flavor development.

2. Warm the tortillas:

   Warming the tortillas before filling helps prevent them from cracking and makes them more pliable, resulting in easier rolling. Warming can be achieved by briefly microwaving, steaming, or pan-frying the tortillas. The warmer tortillas also ensure a more cohesive and less brittle enchilada. This extra step enhances the overall texture of the finished dish. Properly warmed tortillas also make the filling process smoother and easier.

3. Don’t overfill the tortillas:

   Overfilling can lead to difficulty rolling and potential spillage during baking. Using a consistent amount of filling in each tortilla ensures even cooking and prevents one enchilada from being larger or smaller than others. This creates a visually appealing and evenly distributed final product. Proper filling allows for easy rolling and ensures a neat presentation.

4. Use a good quality enchilada sauce:

   A high-quality sauce will significantly impact the overall flavor of the dish. Experiment with different brands or spice levels to find your favorite. Consider homemade sauce for an even more customized flavor experience. The sauce should coat the enchiladas evenly during baking for consistent flavor and moisture. The choice of sauce greatly contributes to the final taste of the enchiladas.

5. Add extra vegetables:
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   Consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Chopped jalapenos or other chilis could add additional spice. Experimenting with other vegetable additions will make the enchiladas more nutritionally complete. Adding vegetables can help balance the richness of the ground beef. The additional vegetables add both flavor and texture to the enchiladas.

6. Garnish creatively:

   Adding fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced avocado as a garnish after baking can enhance both the visual appeal and flavor profile of the dish. These garnishes add a pop of color and fresh flavor to the completed enchiladas. Creative garnishing can elevate the presentation of the dish, making it visually appealing. These additions can also enhance the overall texture and richness of the final product.

This easy ground beef enchilada recipe is a versatile and adaptable dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The focus on ease of preparation and readily available ingredients does not compromise on taste or satisfaction. The recipe’s flexibility allows for customization, ensuring a personalized culinary experience.

The core elements of this recipeground beef, enchilada sauce, and corn tortillascombine to create a hearty and flavorful dish thats quick to prepare. The combination of savory and slightly spicy notes is both comforting and satisfying, ensuring this recipe remains a popular choice for home cooks.

Frequently Asked Questions about this Easy Ground Beef Enchilada Recipe

This section addresses common queries regarding this recipe.

1. Can I use different types of tortillas?

   Yes, you can experiment with flour tortillas or even low-carb alternatives. However, corn tortillas are traditionally used and are best suited to hold their shape during baking. Flour tortillas tend to become softer and less structured, potentially affecting the final presentation of the enchiladas. Be sure to consider the potential differences in texture and flavor based on the type of tortilla chosen. Always consider the structural integrity of the tortilla in relation to the filling.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?

   Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeos to increase the heat level. Using a spicier enchilada sauce will also intensify the overall spiciness of the dish. Consider adding a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky heat. Adjusting the spice level can be easily achieved through adding various chili peppers or spices. Always start with small additions and taste test as you go, adjusting the heat level to your preference.

3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

   Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, uncovered, until ready to bake. This saves time on busy weeknights. The baking time may need a slight adjustment if the enchiladas are cold from refrigeration. Be aware that some of the flavors may intensify during storage. This preparation method is convenient for meal prepping or entertaining.

4. What can I substitute for the cheddar cheese?

   Many other cheeses will work well, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. The choice of cheese will greatly affect the final flavor and texture of the dish. Consider the melting characteristics of the cheese to ensure optimal results. Experimentation with different cheeses can lead to unique and flavorful variations.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

   Yes, leftover enchiladas freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave. The texture may slightly change upon thawing and reheating, but the flavor will remain enjoyable. Freezing leftovers offers a convenient and practical way to preserve the remaining portion of the dish.

This easy ground beef enchilada recipe offers a simple and delicious approach to a classic dish. The emphasis on straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients ensures ease of preparation without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. The numerous opportunities for customization make this recipe suitable for home cooks of all levels.

Ultimately, the success of this recipe hinges on the careful balance of its components. The ground beef’s seasoning, the enchilada sauce’s depth of flavor, and the tortillas’ texture all contribute to the dish’s overall appeal. A little attention to detail and a few simple tips can lead to a remarkably flavorful and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, this easy ground beef enchilada recipe provides a delicious and convenient meal option that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. By following the instructions and tips provided, anyone can create a flavorful and crowd-pleasing dish.