Gabriella D'AgostinoThis article details a delicious and satisfying enchilada recipe featuring shredded beef. The recipe balances rich, savory flavors with the satisfying texture of tender beef and melty cheese, all encased in warm tortillas. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to creating this dish, from ingredient selection to cooking techniques and frequently asked questions. Mastering this recipe allows for culinary exploration and the creation of a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. The step-by-step instructions aim for clarity and ease of replication, making this a perfect recipe for both experienced cooks and culinary novices.
Shredded beef enchiladas offer a versatile and customizable main course option. The recipe itself is adaptable to various dietary preferences and skill levels. The hearty nature of the dish makes it ideal for larger gatherings or meal prepping, allowing for leftovers to be enjoyed throughout the week. The combination of spices and ingredients produces a deep, complex flavor profile that will tantalize the taste buds. This recipes success lies in careful preparation of the beef and a balanced approach to assembling the enchiladas.
The inherent adaptability of the recipe allows for experimentation with different cheeses, chili powders, or even the addition of vegetables. This flexibility allows cooks to personalize the dish to their preferences and available ingredients. The thorough preparation ensures consistent results and a high-quality final product.
Ingredients for Shredded Beef Enchiladas
- 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, green onions
Instructions for Preparing Shredded Beef Enchiladas
- Sear the beef roast until browned on all sides. Place in a slow cooker with onion and garlic.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until beef is very tender.
- Shred the beef with two forks.
- Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
- Fill each tortilla with shredded beef and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce over the enchiladas and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for Shredded Beef Enchiladas
This recipe requires approximately 8-10 hours of cooking time, including the slow cooking of the beef. This yields approximately 6-8 servings, depending on appetite. The cooking time can vary depending on your oven and slow cooker, so always ensure the beef is thoroughly cooked and the enchiladas are heated through. The recipe’s flexibility allows for adjustments to the number of servings by scaling the ingredient quantities proportionally. Note the timing is an estimation and may fluctuate slightly depending on your equipment and cooking style.
| Cooking Time | Servings |
|---|---|
| 8-10 hours | 6-8 |
Nutritional Information for Shredded Beef Enchiladas
A single serving of this recipe provides a substantial amount of protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the tortillas, and fats from the cheese. It also offers essential vitamins and minerals, though the exact nutritional breakdown varies slightly based on the specific ingredients used. To obtain a precise nutritional analysis, consider using a nutrition calculator with the exact brands and quantities of your ingredients. This will offer a customized report specific to your preparation.
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Approximate Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400-500 |
| Protein | 30-40g |
| Fat | 20-30g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-40g |
Tips for Cooking Shredded Beef Enchiladas
Careful attention to detail ensures the perfect outcome. Utilizing high-quality ingredients greatly enhances the final product. Proper cooking techniques, as outlined, are paramount for achieving the desired texture and flavor. Mastering this recipe can be easily accomplished with diligent attention and practice.
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Use a quality beef roast:
Choosing a tender cut of beef, such as chuck roast, is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful shredded beef. A tougher cut may require longer cooking time and may not shred as easily. Consider using a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 190-200F (88-93C) for optimal tenderness. This will yield the best texture and flavor for your enchiladas. Experiment with different cuts to discover your preference.
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Don’t overfill the tortillas:
Overfilling can lead to messy enchiladas that are difficult to roll and may burst during baking. Aim for a moderate amount of filling to ensure easy handling and even cooking. This is a crucial element to achieving the perfect balance between filling and tortilla.
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Use a good quality enchilada sauce:
The enchilada sauce is a key component of the flavor profile. Selecting a high-quality sauce, whether homemade or store-bought, will greatly enhance the final product. Experiment with different brands and flavors to find your favorite. A flavorful sauce can elevate the entire dish.
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Grate your cheese:
Using pre-shredded cheese may contain cellulose which prevents it from melting as smoothly. Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture. This simple step ensures optimal melting during baking.
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Let the enchiladas rest:
Allowing the enchiladas to rest after baking helps the filling set and the cheese to solidify slightly, making them easier to serve. This step also allows the flavors to meld together before serving.
The versatility of this recipe allows for effortless customization to suit individual tastes. Feel free to experiment with additions such as beans, vegetables, or different types of cheese for a unique twist. By mastering this recipe, you can establish a foundation for creating many variations, exploring diverse flavor profiles, and developing a signature dish.
The step-by-step instructions combined with the tips provided ensure that even novice cooks can produce a restaurant-quality meal. The simplicity of the steps facilitates a comfortable and enjoyable culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shredded Beef Enchiladas
This section addresses common queries to provide comprehensive guidance and ensure a seamless cooking experience. The answers aim to clarify any potential uncertainties and equip cooks with the necessary knowledge for successful preparation.
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Can I use leftover cooked beef?
Yes, leftover cooked beef can be used in this recipe. However, ensure it is properly shredded and seasoned to your liking before adding it to the enchiladas. Adjust seasoning as needed to complement the other flavors. Reheating may alter the texture, so consider that when making your adjustments.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and bake them later. Store the assembled enchiladas, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure they are thoroughly heated through. This is ideal for meal prepping or entertaining.
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Can I freeze the enchiladas?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked enchiladas for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C). Freezing allows for long-term storage and meal planning convenience. Be sure to use a freezer-safe container.
This comprehensive guide provides a detailed understanding of the techniques involved in crafting exceptional shredded beef enchiladas. Mastering this recipe empowers cooks to create a delightful, crowd-pleasing meal with ease.
The versatility and adaptability of this recipe make it a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire. Its hearty nature and satisfying flavors ensure it will become a cherished dish.
Enjoy!