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Spicy Beef Enchiladas

Spicy Beef Enchiladas evoke vibrant Mexican flavors, making them an easy, family-friendly meal that's beloved by all.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Filling
  • 1 pound lean ground beef This tender ground beef is the star of the dish, providing a juicy and savory filling.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds smooth richness while sautéing the beef.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Gives the dish a warming heat that awakens the palate.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances the natural flavors of the beef and spices.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Contributes an earthy depth to the flavor profile.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Enriches the filling with a mild onion sweetness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Adds a fragrant herbal touch that complements the beef.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika Infuses a subtle smokiness and warm hue.
  • 4 ounces diced green chiles, drained Introduces a tangy zing and delightful texture.
For the Enchiladas
  • 28 ounces enchilada sauce A rich, tangy sauce that bathes the enchiladas.
  • 3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese Melts into a creamy, gooey topping.
  • 8 pieces corn or flour tortillas These soft shells cradle the savory filling.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, kosher salt, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika until the meat is browned.
  4. Fold in the diced green chiles and 2/3 cup of enchilada sauce, then remove from heat.
  5. Pour 3/4 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.
  6. If using corn tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of beef mixture into a warm tortilla, adding 2-3 tablespoons of cheese on top. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  2. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
  3. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is bubbling.
Serving
  1. Let the enchiladas cool slightly, then serve with toppings like avocado, sour cream, or diced tomatoes.

Notes

For added flavor, brown the spices in the oil before adding beef. For a vegetarian option, use black beans or lentils. Experiment with different cheeses.