BEEF ENCHILADAS with extra cheese

Beef Enchiladas with Extra Cheese Recipe

Beef enchiladas are a classic Mexican-inspired dish that’s perfect for a hearty dinner. This recipe takes it up a notch with an extra-cheesy twist, making it the ultimate comfort food. Here’s how to prepare this savory dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup (240g) canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth or water

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups (480ml) red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup (120g) tomato sauce (for extra depth of flavor)

For the Assembly:

• 8 large flour tortillas (or corn tortillas if preferred)
• 3 cups (340g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 1/2 cups (170g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream
• Diced tomatoes
• Guacamole

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
2. Drain any excess grease and return the skillet to the heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
5. Add the black beans (if using) and beef broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the mixture to slightly thicken. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the enchilada sauce and tomato sauce.
2. Heat over medium heat until warmed through. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Enchiladas:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce mixture evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the beef filling into the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with a small handful of the cheese mixture (cheddar and Monterey Jack).
4. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
5. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, filling, and cheese. Arrange the enchiladas snugly in the dish.

4. Add the Sauce and Cheese:

1. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas, ensuring each one is fully covered.
2. Generously sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top, making it extra cheesy.

5. Bake:

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or your favorite toppings.
3. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Cheese Blend: Using a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives the enchiladas a creamy, gooey texture with a balanced sharpness.
• Tortillas: For easier rolling, warm the tortillas in the microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the enchiladas a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Customization Ideas

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef filling.
• Protein Swap: Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken, pork, or turkey.

This recipe yields 4-6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The extra cheese takes these enchiladas to the next level, ensuring every bite is full of creamy, savory goodness. Enjoy!