Introduction
Shredded beef enchiladas are a tasty Mexican dish that many people love. They are made by filling soft tortillas with juicy, shredded beef and then covering them with a rich, flavorful sauce and melted cheese.
This dish is perfect for family dinners or when you want something warm and comforting. It’s also a great way to use leftover beef or make a big batch to share with friends. In this recipe, you will learn how to make shredded beef enchiladas step by step in a simple and fun way.
Ingredients – Shredded Beef Enchiladas
To make shredded beef enchiladas, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded beef (you can use leftover roast or brisket)
- 8 soft corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Step by Step Process – Shredded Beef Enchiladas
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded beef to the skillet.
- Sprinkle the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the beef.
- Stir everything well and cook for 5 minutes so the flavors mix together.
- Remove the skillet from heat and set the beef filling aside.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
- To make the tortillas soft and easier to roll, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 20 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Take one tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef filling onto the center.
- Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the beef.
- Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese on Top
- Pour the rest of the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Enchiladas
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like.
- Serve with sour cream or your favorite side dishes such as rice or beans.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Fat | 15 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sugar | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin A | 15% of daily value |
| Calcium | 20% of daily value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use store-bought shredded beef?
Yes! You can buy pre-cooked shredded beef or use leftovers from a roast. Just make sure to season it well.
Q2: What kind of cheese is best for enchiladas?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack are popular choices because they melt well. You can also try a Mexican cheese blend.
Q3: Can I make enchilada sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! A simple homemade sauce can be made with tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic, and other spices.
Q4: Are shredded beef enchiladas spicy?
It depends on the sauce and seasoning. You can adjust the chili powder or add hot sauce to control the spice level.
Q5: Can I freeze shredded beef enchiladas?
Yes! Assemble them, cover tightly with foil, and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen but add extra cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Shredded beef enchiladas are a wonderful meal that is both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or a group of friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
The juicy beef, soft tortillas, and gooey cheese come together perfectly with the rich sauce to create a dish that is comforting and satisfying. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings or sides. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious taste of Mexico right at home!
