Name: Easy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Ground Beef; Corn or Flour Tortillas; Red Enchilada Sauce; Yellow Onion; Shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack Cheese; Chili Powder; Cumin; Fresh Cilantro (optional)

The aroma of sizzling beef mingling with spices wafts through the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. Picture warm tortillas hugging a savory filling, topped with a luscious red sauce that glistens under the kitchen lights. These beef enchiladas with red sauce promise an explosion of flavor that will transport you straight to your favorite Mexican restaurant.

As I stand in my kitchen preparing this dish, I can’t help but recall the first time I made these enchiladas for my family. It was a chilly winter evening, and nothing warmed their hearts better than this dish. The laughter around the table as we dug into these cheesy delights still echoes in my mind every time I whip up this recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The preparation is simple and quick; you can have dinner ready in under an hour
The bold flavors create a satisfying meal that will impress your guests
Visually stunning with vibrant colors, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit at any gathering
They are versatile enough for weeknight dinners or festive celebrations

I’ll never forget how my sister-in-law declared them “life-changing” as she went back for seconds. Who knew ground beef could bring such joy?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balance of flavor without excess grease.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas provide authenticity; however, flour tortillas work too if you prefer a softer texture.
Red Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade adds an extra layer of love.
Onion: Use yellow onions for sweetness; sauté until translucent to enhance flavor.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully and gives that gooey goodness we crave.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin add depth; feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance!
Fresh Cilantro (optional): For garnish; it brightens the dish and adds freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your enchiladas bake evenly while you prep everything else.

Sauté the Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and fragrant.

Add Spices and Sauce: Sprinkle chili powder and cumin over the meat mixture. Stir in half of the red enchilada sauce for moisture and flavor infusion.

Assemble the Enchiladas: Spoon some of the filling onto each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.

Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining red sauce over the rolled tortillas generously. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top like it’s confetti at a party!

Bake Until Golden: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown.

Now take a moment to admire your culinary masterpiece as it bakes!

When you pull these beauties out of the oven, let them cool for just a minute before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired—and watch out! These beef enchiladas with red sauce might just steal the show at dinner tonight!

You Must Know

These beef enchiladas with red sauce are a crowd-pleaser and can easily be made ahead
The savory aroma will awaken your taste buds, and the vibrant colors make for an eye-catching presentation on any dinner table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the beef with spices for flavor, then prepare the tortillas while making the red sauce. This sequence saves time and enhances flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or add black beans for extra texture. Customize your toppings for that personal flair!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh tortillas to enhance texture; they hold up better than stale ones
Always season the meat well to elevate flavors throughout
Don’t skimp on cheese; it’s what makes enchiladas irresistible!

Sharing this dish with friends brought back memories of my grandma’s kitchen, where laughter filled the air along with delightful aromas of her famous enchiladas.

FAQs

FAQ

What kind of beef should I use for beef enchiladas with red sauce?

Ground beef or shredded beef works perfectly for these savory enchiladas.

Can I make beef enchiladas with red sauce ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them beforehand and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How do I make the red sauce from scratch?

Blend tomatoes, garlic, and spices to create a quick and delicious homemade sauce.