Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce

Name: Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 corn tortillas; 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream (for serving); Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Published: October 3, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These beef enchiladas with red sauce come together easily, making weeknight dinners stress-free
The bold flavors and creamy textures make every bite irresistible
Their eye-catching presentation will impress guests, turning any meal into a fiesta
Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado

I still remember the first time I made these for my friends; they declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is saying something in a world filled with carbs.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for authenticity; they hold up beautifully under that mouthwatering sauce.
Ground Beef: I recommend lean ground beef for less grease but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. ground beef and veggies.
Red Enchilada Sauce: Homemade is best, but store-bought works wonders too—just find one that makes your taste buds sing.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for an aromatic kick.
Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates a melty goodness; think cheddar or Monterey Jack for that perfect stretch.
Sour Cream: This creamy topping balances out the spices beautifully—don’t skimp on it!
Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for an herby pop of flavor and color.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. taco casserole recipe.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C): While that’s heating up, grab a large skillet and brown your ground beef over medium heat. Cook until it’s no longer pink and starts releasing its savory aroma. Drain any excess fat because nobody likes greasy enchiladas.

Next up: toss in your finely chopped onion. Sauté until they soften and become translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. Your kitchen should smell delightful by now!

Now it’s time to add that glorious red enchilada sauce: Stir it into the beef mixture until everything is well combined. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes so all those flavors meld together—trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite.

While that simmers away: prepare your tortillas. Warm them in a dry skillet or microwave until they’re pliable. This prevents them from cracking when you roll them up later—no one wants sad-looking enchiladas!

Once everything is ready: assemble your creations! Spread some of the beef mixture along one edge of each tortilla. Roll it up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Continue until all tortillas are filled—your baking dish should be filled with delicious potential!

Finally: pour any remaining red sauce over the top of your rolled enchiladas and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until everything is bubbly and golden—you’ll know it’s ready when you can’t resist opening the oven door just to peek inside!

Let it cool slightly before serving; nobody enjoys lava-hot cheese burns! Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with dollops of sour cream on top—the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every cheesy bite of these scrumptious beef enchiladas with red sauce! For more inspiration, check out this beef and cheese chimichangas recipe.

You Must Know

Beef enchiladas with red sauce are not just delicious; they also bring comfort and joy to any meal
The aroma of spices fills the kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home
These enchiladas can transport you straight to Mexico with each bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef, then mix in your spices. While it simmers, prepare the tortillas and cheese for a seamless assembly process.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or beans. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful twist. comforting chicken and dumplings.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results, keeping them covered to retain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Perfect beef enchiladas require patience; let the flavors meld together for a richer taste
Always warm tortillas before filling them to prevent tearing, and don’t skimp on cheese—the more, the merrier!

Sharing my first experience making beef enchiladas was memorable; my family devoured them and requested seconds—definitely a sign of success!

FAQ

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, flour tortillas work well but may alter the traditional flavor slightly.

What type of cheese is best for beef enchiladas with red sauce?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack are both excellent choices that melt beautifully.

How can I make these enchiladas spicier?

Add jalapeños or use spicy red salsa for an extra kick in your enchiladas.

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📖 Recipe Card