Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my all-time favorite comfort food: Ground Beef Enchiladas! Every time I make these, I can’t help but smile as I think about the cozy family dinners back in my childhood when these delicious little bundles of joy graced our table. There’s something so fitting about the warm, cheesy goodness wrapped in a tortilla, all smothered in that magical enchilada sauce. It’s like getting a hug from your grandma after a long day—filling and oh-so-satisfying!
I have to admit, there’s rarely a gathering (or a random weeknight) that could go by without me whipping these up. They’re not just delicious; they’re straightforward and versatile too! You can switch out the ingredients based on what you have, making them a perfect meal for whatever’s hanging out in your fridge. So, let’s jump right in and get to the good stuff—making your own mouthwatering Ground Beef Enchiladas!
What’s in Ground Beef Enchiladas?
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I usually go for lean ground beef because it holds its flavor beautifully without being too greasy.
Onion and Garlic: Oh, the aromatic duo that makes everything better! A small onion sautéed with minced garlic brings such warmth to these savory enchiladas.
Enchilada Sauce: You can choose between red or green, depending on your mood. A rich, velvety enchilada sauce adds depth and that quintessential tangy flavor.
Black Beans: Optional but recommended! These little guys are packed with protein and add a lovely texture. If you’re short on time, I recommend low-sodium canned black beans for convenience.
Corn: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch and freshness. You can use either frozen or fresh, but I prefer using fresh when it’s in season.
Cheese: Because, let’s be real, cheese makes everything better! A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack is my go-to for that melty, gooey goodness.
Corn Tortillas: The perfect wrap for this entire deliciousness. Opt for fresh corn tortillas if you can find them!
Green Onions: To give that final pop of freshness as a garnish—they’re the cherry on top!
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper join the party to give a warm and slightly spicy kick to the meat mixture.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding flavor without any fuss.
Is Ground Beef Enchiladas Good for You?
Absolutely! These enchiladas can be a hearty meal packed with proteins, fiber, and loads of flavor. The combination of **ground beef**, **black beans**, and **corn** offers essential nutrients like iron, fiber, and vitamin C. Just watch out for the cheese—while tasty, it can add extra calories, so maybe keep that in check if you’re watching your intake.
But hey, life is all about balance, right? One serving of these beauties can make your day, especially when shared with loved ones. And remember, you can always go leaner by using ground turkey or even crumbled tofu if you’re aiming for something lighter!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green)
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen, optional)
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and/or Monterey Jack)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
This recipe will serve about 4-6 people, perfect for a family dinner!
How to Make Ground Beef Enchiladas?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up and cook until browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if needed!
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. If you’re using black beans and corn, add them in and mix well. Then, remove from heat.
5. In a separate dish, pour a bit of enchilada sauce to coat the bottom of the baking dish.
6. To assemble the enchiladas, take a tortilla, add a spoonful of the beef mixture, sprinkle with cheese, and roll it up tightly. Place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until you’ve filled all the tortillas.
7. Once all the enchiladas are snugly in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with any remaining cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
And voila! You have a delightful feast of Ground Beef Enchiladas ready to devour!
Creative Twist on a Classic
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add some roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the filling? Or go spicy with some jalapeños sautéed in with the onions! No one’s judging if you want to load up on extra cheese! Additionally, you can serve the enchiladas with a side of sour cream or guacamole for that extra layer of flavor.
I absolutely can’t wait for you to try this recipe! Trust me, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine. And don’t forget to share your creations and any fun twists you add! Happy cooking, my friends!
