Cheesy Beef Enchiladas

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Classic Cheesy Beef Enchiladas

Nothing beats a pan of bubbling, oven-baked enchiladas loaded with seasoned beef, savory red sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. This comfort-food favorite delivers incredible depth of flavor with tender tortillas wrapping up a hearty, spiced filling.

1. Essential Ingredients

  • The Meat & Filling:

    • 1 lb lean ground beef

    • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper)

    • 1/4 cup beef broth or water

  • The Wraps & Sauce:

    • 8 to 10 flour or corn tortillas (warm them slightly in the microwave so they roll without cracking)

    • 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce

    • 2 cups (8 oz) Mexican blend or sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

  • The Toppings:

    • Fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream.

2. Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Cook the Beef Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are tender (drain any excess grease). Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and beef broth, letting it simmer for 3 minutes until thick and flavorful.

  • Set Up Your Assembly Station: Pour about half a cup of the red enchilada sauce into the bottom of your prepared baking dish and spread it around. Lay out your warm tortillas.

  • Roll the Enchiladas: Spoon a generous scoop of the beef mixture down the center of a tortilla, sprinkle a small handful of cheese inside, and roll it up tightly. Place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas until the dish is filled.

  • Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining red enchilada sauce evenly over the top of all the rolled tortillas, making sure they are well-coated. Generously sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese all over the top.

  • Bake to Bubbling: Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce is bubbling at the edges and the cheese is completely melted, golden, and slightly crisp in spots.

  • Garnish and Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving warm.

💡 Pro-Tip

If using corn tortillas, brush them lightly with oil and warm them in a skillet or the microwave for 15 seconds. This makes them pliable enough to roll without tearing!

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