Aunt Jean'S Enchiladas
Hearty and flavorful enchiladas featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and rich sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold Mexican flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and half of the diced onion in a skillet, then drain well.
- Return the cooked meat and onion to the skillet on low heat, add enchilada seasoning, and mix well.
- Set aside the seasoned meat to cool for 15 minutes.
- Warm the tortilla shells slightly to make them pliable.
- Spread a layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a tortilla shell on a plate, spoon some of the seasoned meat onto it, sprinkle with shredded cheese, then roll it up.
- Arrange the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top, then sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot with sour cream and salsa on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also mix in black beans or corn for extra texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or substitute some of the enchilada sauce for a spicier variety. Remember to warm the tortilla shells just enough to prevent tearing when rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Jean's Enchiladas with a side of sour cream and salsa for dipping. They pair beautifully with Ranchero Corn or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with rice or chips. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the enchiladas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Jean'S Enchiladas contains roughly 563 calories, with 13g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1108mg per serving (48% 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 make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas in advance. Assemble them, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save time on busy nights and allows the flavors to meld.
What can I substitute for the enchilada sauce?
If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can use a homemade version made from tomato sauce, chili powder, and cumin. Alternatively, salsa can work in a pinch, adding a different flavor profile that complements the ingredients.
Can I freeze the enchiladas?
Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking, and follow the reheating instructions.
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).