Garlic Beef Enchiladas
Savory garlic beef enchiladas feature seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and flavorful tomato sauce, offering a comforting Mexican-inspired dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cooked ground beef, chopped onions, and about 1/2 cup water; cook until onions are translucent.
- Add flour, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and ground cumin (if using); mix well.
- Stir in stewed tomatoes; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Pour about 1 1/2 cups of enchilada sauce into a greased 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
- Spread about 1/4 cup of beef mixture down the center of each flour tortilla.
- Top with 1 to 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese.
- Roll up each tortilla tightly and place seam side down over the sauce in the baking dish.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas.
- Top the assembled enchiladas with the remaining sauce and cheese.
- Broil on LOW until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, try adding diced bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture. If you're out of chili powder, a mix of paprika and cayenne can work as a substitute. For a healthier version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also swap the flour tortillas for corn ones if desired, but be aware that they may be more fragile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal. A fresh salad with avocado and lime dressing pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the enchiladas. For an extra kick, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. These enchiladas also make a great main dish for gatherings, like those inspired by other Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, they can be microwaved on medium power until heated through, usually about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlic Beef Enchiladas contains roughly 1176 calories, with 66g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), protein (131% of the Daily Value), and calcium (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2252mg per serving (98% 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 assemble the enchiladas in advance and then refrigerate them before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil and bake them straight from the fridge, increasing the baking time by about 10 minutes. This makes them perfect for meal prep or hosting a dinner party.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a lower-fat alternative, consider using part-skim mozzarella or a blend of reduced-fat cheeses. This way, you can still enjoy the creamy texture without the extra calories.
How spicy are these enchiladas?
The spice level can be easily adjusted. The chili powder adds a mild heat, but if you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. Alternatively, omit the chili powder for a milder flavor, making it suitable for kids or those sensitive to spice.
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).