Creating the perfect Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas is an art form in Texas, a place where Tex-Mex cuisine isn’t just food—it’s a way of life. This recipe, steeped in tradition and honed to perfection, promises to deliver a superior version of this classic dish. It combines a robustly flavored beef filling, smothered in a rich, homemade enchilada sauce, all cocooned in soft tortillas and topped with a generous layer of melty cheese. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply feeding a hungry family, these beef enchiladas will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s a surefire hit for any gathering.
Ingredients for Beef Enchiladas
For the Enchiladas:
- 2-3 lb. coarse ground chuck
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 medium white onion
- 2-3 medium jalapeño or serrano peppers
- 1/3 bunch fresh cilantro
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 12+ homemade or store-bought corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup grated Mexican blend cheese
For Serving:
- Charro beans
- Salsa
- Spanish rice
- Refried beans
Instructions
1. Prepare the Red Hot Enchilada Sauce:
Begin by making your enchilada sauce. This sauce is the soul of your dish, enveloping the enchiladas in a layer of smoky, spicy goodness. Set aside once done.
2. Preheat the Oven:
Heat your oven to 175°C (350°F) to ensure it’s ready for baking your enchiladas to perfection.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
Peel and quarter the onion. Slice the peppers in half, removing seeds and stems. Trim the stems from the cilantro. Use a food processor to mince these ingredients finely.
4. Combine Cheeses:
In a small bowl, mix together the Monterey Jack and Mexican blend cheeses until well combined. The blend of these cheeses will give you that irresistible, gooey texture.
5. Cook the Beef:
Heat a non-stick skillet with cooking oil over medium-high heat. Season the ground chuck with chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until it’s no longer pink. Add in the minced onion, peppers, and cilantro, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Prepare Tortillas:
Softening the tortillas makes them pliable for rolling. Wrap 6 tortillas in a paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds. Repeat for all tortillas.
7. Assemble the Enchiladas:
On a cutting board, lay out a tortilla, spoon the beef mixture onto the center, sprinkle with the cheese blend, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
8. Bake:
Cover the enchiladas with the prepared sauce and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Serve:
Serve hot, accompanied by charro beans, salsa, Spanish rice, or refried beans for a complete Tex-Mex feast.
Tips for Perfection
- Authentic Enchilada Sauce: Investing time in making your enchilada sauce from scratch can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.
- Seasoning the Beef: Don’t shy away from seasoning; this is what gives the filling its signature Tex-Mex flavor.
- Cheese Matters: The blend of Monterey Jack and Mexican cheeses provides both flavor and that picture-perfect cheese pull.
FAQ
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the enchiladas up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if coming from the refrigerator.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.
Can I freeze beef enchiladas?
Yes, assemble the enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version, though the taste will be slightly different.
Embracing the art of Tex-Mex cuisine with these Beef Enchiladas will surely bring a taste of Texas right into your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, this dish stands as a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region, promising a deliciously memorable meal.
