Beef enchiladas with red sauce are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender beef wrapped in soft, corn tortillas, all smothered in a velvety red sauce that’s bursting with flavor—it’s like a fiesta for your taste buds! The scent wafting from your kitchen will have anyone within a three-mile radius knocking on your door, begging for an invite to dinner. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Now, let me take you down memory lane where I first encountered these heavenly bites. It was at my Aunt Maria’s house during family gatherings, where she would whip up batch after batch of these enchiladas while regaling us with stories from her childhood. delicious taco dip recipe The joy and laughter that surrounded the table made every bite even more delicious. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a cozy Sunday dinner, these beef enchiladas are sure to become your new go-to comfort food!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for beef enchiladas with red sauce is not only easy to prepare but also packed with bold flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any dinner table.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet fancy enough for special occasions, this dish is truly versatile.
- Plus, you can customize the fillings and toppings based on what you have at home!
Ingredients for beef enchiladas with red sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Corn Tortillas: Look for fresh corn tortillas; they hold up better when filled and baked.
- Red Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade adds an extra layer of love and flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives a melty goodness that’s out of this world.
- Onion: Sautéed onions add sweetness and depth; don’t skip them!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves deliver an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
For the Toppings:
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings creaminess to each bite.
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and freshness—perfect for finishing touches!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make beef enchiladas with red sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with diced onions and minced garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Mix It Up
Stir in half of the red enchilada sauce into the beef mixture. This will give it all the flavor it needs! Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Step 3: Assemble Your Enchiladas
Grab those soft corn tortillas like you’re holding golden tickets! Spoon some filling onto each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
Step 4: Top It Off
Pour the remaining red sauce over the rolled-up enchiladas. Don’t be stingy! Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top because cheese makes everything better.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking) and bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Serve With Love
Take those cheesy beauties out of the oven and let them sit for about five minutes (if you can resist!). Serve hot with sour cream and chopped cilantro on top for that perfect final touch!
Now you’ve got yourself a plateful of beef enchiladas with red sauce that are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Enjoy every gooey bite!
You Must Know
- This recipe for beef enchiladas with red sauce is not just delicious; it’s a fiesta on your plate!
- The savory beef wrapped in soft tortillas and drenched in rich red sauce will make you the star of any dinner table.
- Plus, it’s easy to whip up even after a long day!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef in a pan, while the tortillas warm in another. Prepare your red sauce as the beef simmers. Finally, assemble the enchiladas and bake until bubbly and golden. This sequence ensures maximum flavor with minimal chaos.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the beef for shredded chicken or even black beans for a vegetarian delight. Experiment with spices—add some cumin or chili powder for extra kick. You can also top your enchiladas with sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover beef enchiladas with red sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly rolled enchiladas, warm the tortillas first so they bend without tearing.
- Use a generous amount of sauce to keep them moist during baking.
- Lastly, let your dish rest for a few minutes post-baking to enhance flavors and ease serving.
Sometimes when I’m cooking these beef enchiladas with red sauce, I reminisce about that one family gathering where they vanished faster than my uncle’s appetite for dessert! Everyone raved about them; it felt like winning a cooking Oscar!
FAQs:
What are beef enchiladas with red sauce?
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a traditional Mexican dish made by filling corn tortillas with seasoned ground beef and rolling them up. The rolled tortillas are then topped with a rich, flavorful red enchilada sauce, which can be homemade or store-bought. These enchiladas are often baked until bubbly and served with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.
How do I make the red sauce for beef enchiladas?
To make the red sauce for beef enchiladas, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan. Once softened, add chili powder, cumin, and tomato sauce. Simmer the mixture to allow the flavors to meld. You can also add broth to achieve your desired consistency. For a bit of heat, consider adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper. This homemade red sauce enhances the flavor of your beef enchiladas while allowing you to control the spice level.
Can I use a different meat for these enchiladas?
Absolutely! While beef is a popular choice for enchiladas, you can easily substitute it with chicken, turkey, or even beans for a vegetarian option. Each type of meat brings its unique flavor to the dish. Adjust your seasoning according to the meat you choose to ensure that your enchiladas are flavorful and delicious. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
What are some side dishes that pair well with beef enchiladas?
Beef enchiladas with red sauce pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving them alongside Mexican rice or refried beans for a classic combination. A fresh salad with avocado and lime dressing can also complement the richness of the enchiladas. Additionally, chips with salsa or guacamole provide a crunchy contrast that enhances the meal’s overall experience.
Conclusion for beef enchiladas with red sauce:
In summary, beef enchiladas with red sauce offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes them a favorite in many households. Preparing this dish involves filling corn tortillas with seasoned beef and smothering them in a rich red sauce before baking. Philly cheesesteak sloppy joes Whether you choose to stick to traditional recipes or customize them with different meats and toppings, these enchiladas promise satisfaction at every bite. Enjoy this classic dish at your next dinner gathering or family meal!

Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the warmth of home cooking to your table. Tender ground beef is wrapped in soft corn tortillas, smothered in a rich and zesty red sauce, and topped with melty cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Serve these enchiladas with your favorite toppings for a delightful meal that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 fresh corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in half of the red enchilada sauce into the beef mixture; adjust seasoning as needed.
- Spoon filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour remaining red sauce over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for five minutes before serving with sour cream and cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using homemade red sauce. - You can substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian option. - Customize toppings with guacamole or jalapeños for extra zing.