Easy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce Recipe

Recipe By:
James Walker
Updated:

The aroma of sizzling beef and spicy red sauce fills the kitchen, making it impossible to resist the allure of beef enchiladas with red sauce. These little bundles of joy bring a fiesta of flavors to your table that can transform even the dullest weeknight into a culinary celebration.

Imagine biting into a soft tortilla enveloping savory ground beef and melting cheese, all draped in a rich, tangy red sauce that dances on your taste buds. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a craving for something comforting, these enchiladas are sure to become a cherished favorite that you’ll want to make time and time again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • </p>
  • <p>These beef enchiladas with red sauce are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavor profile combines savory meat and zesty sauce for a delicious experience
  • Visually appealing with vibrant colors, they’re sure to impress family and friends
  • These versatile enchiladas can be customized with your favorite toppings or ingredients.</p>
  • <p>

I remember the first time I made these beef enchiladas with red sauce for my friends; their eyes lit up like kids in a candy store! The laughter and happy chatter around the table were priceless.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease; it keeps the flavors bold without overwhelming richness.
  • Tortillas: Opt for corn tortillas for authenticity; they provide great texture while holding all the goodness inside.
  • Red Sauce: Use pre-made or homemade; either works well but homemade adds that special touch!
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese melts beautifully on top; the more cheese you use, the better!
  • Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent before mixing it in.
  • Cumin & Chili Powder: These spices elevate flavors—don’t skip them unless you want bland enchiladas.
  • Sour Cream (optional): A dollop on top brings creaminess that complements the spicy flavors perfectly.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking while we prepare our delicious filling.

Sauté the Onion & Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add chopped onion and ground beef. Cook until browned and onions are tender—about 5-7 minutes.

Add Spices & Sauce: Stir in cumin and chili powder along with half of your red sauce. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant.

Prepare Tortillas: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for about 30 seconds; this makes them pliable and easy to roll without tearing.

Assemble Your Enchiladas: Spoon some of the meat mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle cheese inside, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.

Add Sauce & Cheese Topping: Pour remaining red sauce over rolled tortillas and sprinkle generously with cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

Enjoy these delightful beef enchiladas with red sauce fresh from the oven! If you can’t wait to dig in (and who could blame you?), let them cool for just a couple of minutes before serving.

You Must Know

  • Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a comforting classic, bursting with flavors that will make your taste buds dance
  • These enchiladas are perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
  • Their rich aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone eager for the first bite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the beef and onions together, then prepare the red sauce while assembling the enchiladas. This sequence ensures everything is perfectly timed and hot when served.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add beans for extra protein. Optional toppings like avocado or cilantro can elevate your dish further.

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 heated through, about 20 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always use fresh tortillas for better texture; stale ones can tear easily
  • A blend of cheeses adds depth, so don’t be shy!
  • If your sauce is too thick, a splash of broth works wonders

When I first made these beef enchiladas with red sauce, my friend nearly cried tears of joy after one bite! It was a glorious moment that solidified my love for cooking.

FAQs

FAQ

What meat can I use instead of beef for enchiladas?

Try using shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter option that still packs flavor.

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble them beforehand and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How do I make my red sauce from scratch?

Blend tomatoes, spices, and broth; simmer gently to deepen the flavors before pouring over enchiladas.

Print
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Easy Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce

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Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a crowd-pleasing delight, featuring savory ground beef and melted cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, all smothered in a flavorful red sauce.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups red sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Sour cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and half of the red sauce; simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave for easy rolling.
  5. Spoon the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
  6. Pour remaining red sauce over enchiladas and top with extra cheese.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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