Enchiladas with ground beef: the best way to use up leftovers

The tantalizing aroma of freshly made enchiladas wafts through the air, igniting a symphony of flavors in your mind. But amidst the culinary curiosity, a question arises: can you make enchiladas with ground beef?

The answer is a resounding yes! Ground beef, with its versatile texture and savory taste, makes an exceptional filling for enchiladas. It’s a budget-friendly option that adds a hearty and flavorful touch to this classic Mexican dish.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Enchiladas

To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.

3. Create the Enchilada Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas

Spread a thin layer of refried beans in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Dip each tortilla into the enchilada sauce and fill it with a generous amount of ground beef mixture. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam side down in the baking dish.

5. Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the enchiladas.

6. Bake

Bake the enchiladas at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve

Garnish the enchiladas with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, and cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors that tantalize your taste buds.

Tips for Perfect Enchiladas

• Use fresh corn tortillas for the best texture.
• Don’t overfill the tortillas, or they will break.
• If the enchilada sauce is too thick, add a little water or broth.
• For a spicy kick, add a few drops of hot sauce to the enchilada sauce.
• You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped vegetables, cooked rice, or beans.

Ground Beef Enchilada Variations

The beauty of enchiladas lies in their versatility. Here are a few variations to explore:

• Chicken Enchiladas: Replace the ground beef with cooked chicken.
• Cheese Enchiladas: Omit the ground beef and add extra cheese to the filling.
• Vegetable Enchiladas: Fill the tortillas with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and corn.
• Black Bean Enchiladas: Use black beans instead of ground beef.
• Sweet Potato Enchiladas: Roast sweet potatoes and add them to the filling.

Healthier Enchiladas

If you’re looking for a healthier version of enchiladas, try these tips:

• Use whole-wheat tortillas instead of corn tortillas.
• Choose lean ground beef or turkey.
• Use low-fat cheese.
• Add lots of vegetables to the filling.
• Bake the enchiladas instead of frying them.

The Final Verdict

So, can you make enchiladas with ground beef? Absolutely! Ground beef enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe will guide you towards creating a mouthwatering meal that will delight your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to ground beef.

Q: What kind of cheese is best for enchiladas?
A: Shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese are the most popular choices for enchiladas. However, you can use any type of cheese that you like.

Q: How do I store leftover enchiladas?
A: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze enchiladas for up to 3 months.