Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas

Name: Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend; 2 cups enchilada sauce; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained (optional); 1 medium onion, chopped; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

By Lisa

March 20, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas wafting through the kitchen. Imagine a warm tortilla wrapped around seasoned ground beef, smothered in zesty red sauce, and topped with melted cheese—your taste buds are already dancing. This dish delivers a fiesta of flavors that can turn an ordinary weeknight into a celebration!

I remember the first time I made these enchiladas; I was trying to impress my friends at a casual dinner. Let’s just say the reaction was a mix of awe and “where have you been hiding this recipe?” The best part? It’s perfect for any occasion—game nights, potlucks, or simply when you need an excuse to eat cheesy goodness while wearing sweatpants.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
Bursting with rich flavors and gooey cheese, they look as good as they taste
You can customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge
Great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers all week!

I once served these enchiladas at a friend’s gathering, and everyone couldn’t stop asking for seconds. The laughter and joyous chatter that filled the room made it one of my favorite cooking memories.

Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas Ready to Serve

Essential Ingredients

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

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease while keeping that savory flavor intact.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas hold up beautifully in this dish; they soak up sauce without falling apart.
Shredded Cheese: I recommend using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty texture and rich flavor.
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought works great in a pinch; however, homemade sauce adds an extra layer of love.
Black Beans: Optional but highly recommended! They add protein and texture that complement the beef perfectly.
Onions: Sweet onions caramelize beautifully when sautéed; they add sweetness to balance out the savory beef.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro as a garnish brightens up the dish with its aromatic freshness—don’t skip it!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare yourself for an adventure in flavor; let’s get cooking!

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. Prepping everything makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Sauté the Onions: Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes will do.

Brown the Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef with salt and pepper. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula—about 6-8 minutes should suffice.

Add Seasonings & Beans: Mix in chili powder, cumin, black beans if using, plus any other spices you enjoy. Stir until everything is well combined.

Assemble Your Enchiladas: Take a tortilla and fill it with the meat mixture. Roll it tightly like your favorite burrito and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.

Pour Sauce & Cheese Overhead: Smother those rolled beauties with enchilada sauce and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.

Enjoy your culinary triumph! Once baked to perfection, let them cool slightly before diving into those cheesy layers of goodness.

Now you’re ready to impress your friends or simply treat yourself to an incredible meal!

You Must Know

Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser, combining savory beef with spicy enchilada sauce
The delightful aroma fills the kitchen, making it impossible to resist
Ensure your tortillas are fresh and soft to avoid breaking while rolling them up

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sauté the ground beef first until browned, then add onions and spices. Simultaneously heat up your enchilada sauce for seamless assembly. This sequence ensures each ingredient contributes its best flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian twist. Add extra cheese or jalapeños for a personalized kick that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they remain deliciously cheesy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly rolled enchiladas, warm tortillas briefly in a skillet to soften them
Don’t overfill, or they’ll burst!
Layer extra cheese on top before baking for a gooey finish that will impress everyone at the table

Making these Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and delicious food filled the air, creating unforgettable memories.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas?

You can use shredded chicken, turkey, or black beans as tasty alternatives.

Can I freeze Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas?

Yes, freeze them before baking for quick meals later; just thaw and bake!

How do I make my enchiladas spicier?

Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicier enchilada sauce for extra heat.

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