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If you’re craving a taste of authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, look no further than these delicious Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas. As a South Texas staple, this dish combines the rich flavors of cheese-filled tortillas with a spicy meat sauce, all baked to perfection. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas will surely impress both in taste and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These enchiladas are the real deal! With just the right amount of spices, they’re easily adjustable to suit your taste, whether you prefer them hotter or milder. Plus, they are simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for those busy weeknights. The recipe is flexible enough to be halved if you’re cooking for two, and the results are always impressive and delicious.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor
- Large heavy non-stick skillet (cast iron recommended)
- 9″ x 13″ baking dish
- Microwave
- Cutting board
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 2-3 lb coarse ground chuck
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 medium white onion
- 2-3 medium jalapeno 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 corn or flour tortillas (store-bought works too)
- 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup grated Mexican blend cheese
- 2-3 cups enchilada sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation: If making your own, prepare the Red Hot Enchilada sauce or use store-bought. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Peel and quarter the onion, then place it in a food processor. Halve the peppers, remove stems, seeds, and veins, and add them to the processor. Add only the cilantro leaves (discard stems) and pulse until finely minced. Leave the mixture in the processor for now. Toss the Monterey Jack and Mexican blend cheeses together in a bowl and set aside.
- Heat a large heavy non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cooking oil, ground chuck, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat turns grey. Add the onion, pepper, and cilantro mixture from the processor and cook for about two more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Lightly grease a 9″ x 13″ baking dish. Soften 4-6 tortillas at a time by placing them between paper towels and microwaving for 20 seconds. Remove and place on a cutting board or waxed paper. Spoon the meat mixture down the center of each tortilla, sprinkle with a small amount of cheese, then roll up and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas and meat are used.
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the entire dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Add more cheese if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is crusty and bubbly.
- Serve hot with salsa, charro or refried beans, and Spanish rice for a complete Tex-Mex experience. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Adjust the number of jalapenos or serrano peppers according to your heat preference.
- Ensure the tortillas are soft before rolling to prevent tearing.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends or add some cooked beans to the meat mixture for a heartier filling. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with a mix of cooked vegetables or beans.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories, fat content, protein, and other nutritional values will depend on specific ingredient brands and quantities used. For a more exact breakdown, consider using a nutritional calculator with your chosen ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Shredded chicken works wonderfully in this recipe.
How can I make this dish spicier? Increase the amount of chili powder or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Can these enchiladas be frozen? Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them tightly before freezing, and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
Conclusion
These Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas are not only easy to make but also bring a taste of authentic Tex-Mex cuisine right to your table. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Your feedback and variations are always welcome!
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