Description of this recipe: These Cheesy 5-Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. Simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor, they come together quickly with just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator. Ground beef seasoned with taco spices, enveloped in soft flour tortillas, smothered in tangy enchilada sauce, and blanketed with melted cheese – what’s not to love? This is comfort food at its finest, ready to warm you from the inside out.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll adore these enchiladas for their sheer ease and speed. In under an hour, you can have a complete, delicious meal on the table that the whole family will devour. No complicated techniques or exotic ingredients are required. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily adjust the spiciness, add extra vegetables, or substitute the beef with other proteins. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, ensuring a consistently crowd-pleasing result. The minimal cleanup is an added bonus!
Introduction
Life gets busy, and sometimes the thought of spending hours in the kitchen preparing dinner is just not appealing. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or satisfaction. Enter these Cheesy 5-Ingredient Beef Enchiladas – a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.
This recipe is designed to be as straightforward and efficient as possible, utilizing pantry staples and minimal ingredients without compromising on taste. It’s perfect for beginner cooks, busy parents, or anyone looking for a quick and comforting meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just five key ingredients, you can create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tangy enchilada sauce, and melted cheese is a classic for a reason – it’s simply irresistible.
Beyond its ease, this recipe is also highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, add your favorite veggies, or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences. The possibilities are endless. So, ditch the takeout menu and embrace the convenience and deliciousness of these Cheesy 5-Ingredient Beef Enchiladas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef: Look for a lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to minimize grease. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used for a lighter option.
- 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning: This adds a burst of flavor and simplifies the seasoning process. Choose your favorite brand or make your own homemade taco seasoning for even more control over the ingredients.
- 1 (10-ounce) can red enchilada sauce: The sauce is the soul of the enchiladas, adding moisture, tanginess, and depth of flavor. You can find mild, medium, or hot varieties to suit your spice preference.
- 8 small flour tortillas: Small tortillas are ideal for easy rolling and prevent the enchiladas from becoming too bulky. Corn tortillas can also be used, but they may require a bit more moisture to prevent them from cracking. You may need to lightly warm the corn tortillas to make them more pliable.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: A pre-shredded Mexican blend is a convenient way to add a variety of cheeses to your enchiladas. Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Colby are common components. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating the oven ensures that the enchiladas cook evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the dish inside.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Browning the ground beef is crucial for developing rich, savory flavor. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is fully browned, drain off any excess grease to prevent the enchiladas from becoming too oily. Use a spoon to carefully remove any excess fat.
Step 3: Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water to the skillet. Stir well to combine, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
The taco seasoning infuses the ground beef with a vibrant blend of spices, creating the signature enchilada flavor. Adding a little water helps the seasoning evenly coat the beef and prevents it from burning. Simmering the mixture for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Spread 2 tablespoons of enchilada sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish prevents the enchiladas from sticking and adds a layer of flavor to the base. This also ensures that the tortillas don’t dry out during baking.
Step 5: Spoon a portion of the beef mixture into each tortilla, sprinkle with a little cheese, then roll up tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
Evenly distribute the beef mixture among the tortillas, leaving enough space to roll them up easily. Adding a sprinkle of cheese inside each tortilla adds extra flavor and creaminess. Roll the tortillas tightly to prevent them from unraveling during baking, and place them seam-side down in the baking dish to help them stay closed. Be careful not to overfill the tortillas, which may make them more difficult to roll neatly.
Step 6: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Smothering the enchiladas with the remaining sauce ensures that they stay moist and flavorful during baking. Generously sprinkling the cheese on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that is simply irresistible. Make sure the enchiladas are well-coated for best results.
Step 7: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Covering the baking dish with foil during the first part of the baking process helps to retain moisture and prevent the enchiladas from drying out. Removing the foil during the last few minutes allows the cheese to melt and brown beautifully. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Be mindful not to overbake, which could lead to dryness.
Step 8: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Allowing the enchiladas to cool slightly before serving prevents them from falling apart when you cut into them. It also gives the cheese a chance to set slightly, making them easier to handle.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cooling tanginess that balances the richness of the enchiladas.
- Guacamole: Creamy, fresh guacamole provides a delicious contrast to the savory enchiladas.
- Pico de gallo: This fresh salsa adds a vibrant burst of flavor and texture.
- Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note.
- Shredded lettuce: A bed of shredded lettuce adds a refreshing crunch.
- Spanish rice or refried beans: Serve alongside Spanish rice or refried beans for a complete and satisfying Mexican-inspired meal.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture or use a hot enchilada sauce.
- To make ahead: Assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing instructions: Allow the assembled enchiladas to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Customize your fillings: Add diced onions, bell peppers, or black beans to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Corn tortillas: Warm the tortillas slightly before filling and rolling to make them more pliable and prevent them from cracking. You can warm them in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 700mg
(Please note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This is an estimate only.)
Conclusion
These Cheesy 5-Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are a testament to the fact that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and stress-free meal.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with other types of meat. Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter options. You could also use shredded chicken or even cooked chorizo for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if you’re using pre-cooked meats. If using chicken or turkey, ensure they’re cooked through before adding the taco seasoning.
Q2: I don’t have taco seasoning on hand. Can I make my own?
A: Yes, you can definitely make your own taco seasoning! In fact, it’s a great way to control the ingredients and adjust the spice level to your liking. A simple homemade taco seasoning can be made with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. There are countless recipes online for homemade taco seasoning, so find one that suits your taste preferences. As a general guideline, use about 2-3 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning per pound of ground beef.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to these enchiladas?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of these enchiladas. Diced onions, bell peppers, corn, and black beans are all great additions. You can sauté the vegetables along with the ground beef or add them directly to the filling mixture after the beef is cooked. Just be sure to adjust the amount of enchilada sauce accordingly to ensure the enchiladas don’t dry out. You can also add some spinach or kale to the meat mixture for a hidden vegetable boost.
Q4: What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish?
A: If you don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish, you can use a similar-sized dish or even two smaller baking dishes. The key is to ensure that the enchiladas fit snugly in the dish without being overcrowded. You can also adjust the number of tortillas and the amount of filling to fit your dish. If using two smaller dishes, divide the enchilada sauce and cheese evenly between the two. A slightly smaller or larger dish will still work; just be mindful of the cooking time.
Q5: How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
A: To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy, avoid overfilling them with the beef mixture and be sure to drain any excess grease from the cooked ground beef. You can also lightly warm the tortillas before filling and rolling them, which helps to make them more pliable and less likely to absorb excess moisture. Spreading a thin layer of refried beans on the tortillas before adding the beef mixture can also create a barrier against the sauce. Finally, avoid overbaking the enchiladas, as this can cause the tortillas to become dry and then soggy.
