Arkansas Enchiladas
Arkansas Enchiladas feature savory beef in a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for hearty, flavorful meals that suit family dinners and casual gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger in a deep pan.
- Add 2 cans of tomato sauce (6 oz. each) to the pan with the browned hamburger.
- Season with Worcestershire sauce, Louisiana hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 45 minutes.
- Serve over hot water cornbread, sliced in half.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers while browning the hamburger. If you want a milder dish, reduce the amount of Louisiana hot sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for added texture. This recipe is similar to American recipes that prioritize bold flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these enchiladas over hot water cornbread for a hearty meal. Pair with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad for freshness. For an added kick, offer additional hot sauce on the side. This dish also pairs beautifully with Texas Cream Gravy for those who enjoy a creamier sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Arkansas Enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until warm. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arkansas Enchiladas contains roughly 51 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2235mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP) to achieve a similar texture and flavor.
What can I do if I want to make this dish spicier?
To enhance the heat, add more Louisiana hot sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers into the mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder to taste while simmering for an extra kick.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the hamburger in advance, then refrigerate it until you're ready to serve. Just reheat the mixture and serve it over fresh cornbread. This is ideal for meal prepping and busy weeknights!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).