Homemade Beef Enchiladas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe makes enchiladas from scratch, including a homemade red enchilada sauce that’s flavorful and smooth. The ground beef filling is perfectly seasoned with onions and green chiles, giving a nice balance of spice and savory notes. Frying the tortillas before assembling adds a wonderful texture, and the melted cheese and fresh cilantro finish it off beautifully.

Ingredients

Red Enchilada Sauce

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• 2 cups vegetable broth

Ground Beef Filling

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 medium white onion, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 7 ounces diced green chiles, drained

Enchiladas

• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Make the Red Enchilada Sauce:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Whisk in cornstarch and cook for about 1 minute.
   • Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin, and oregano until fragrant.
   • Slowly whisk in vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
2. Prepare Ground Beef Filling:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onions are tender.
   • Drain excess fat. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in diced green chiles and cook for another minute. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare Tortillas:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry tortillas for 10-15 seconds per side until pliable but not crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble Enchiladas:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Dip each tortilla into the enchilada sauce, then spoon beef mixture down the center. Sprinkle with cheese, roll tightly, and place seam side down in a baking dish.
   • Repeat with all tortillas.
5. Bake:
   • Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Substitute Monterey Jack with cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Spicy Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the enchilada sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms and beans.
• Tortilla Choices: Use flour tortillas for a softer texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze assembled enchiladas before baking for up to 2 months; bake from frozen, adding extra time.

FAQs

Can I make the enchilada sauce ahead?

Yes, sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.

Do I have to fry the tortillas?

Frying softens them and prevents tearing, but you can also warm tortillas in the microwave.

Can I use canned green chiles?

Yes, drained canned chiles work perfectly.

How do I prevent enchiladas from drying out?

Cover the baking dish with foil while baking.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, cooked shredded chicken is a great alternative.

Are these gluten-free?

Corn tortillas are gluten-free; ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, bell peppers, onions, or corn can be added.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze cooked enchiladas?

Yes, they freeze well for up to 2 months.

What sides go well with enchiladas?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Homemade Beef Enchiladas combine rich, savory beef filling with a smooth, homemade red sauce and melted cheese for an authentic and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you crave classic Mexican comfort food.

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