Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas

Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas are a delightful meal that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table. This easy recipe is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a hearty dish. With layers of flavor from seasoned ground beef and creamy refried beans, these enchiladas are sure to impress. The best part? They come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy cooks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to cook, perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Kid-Friendly: Packed with cheesy goodness and savory flavors, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the fillings or toppings based on your family’s preferences.
• Make-Ahead Option: These enchiladas are great for preparing in advance and can be frozen before baking.
• Comfort Food Classic: Rich, cheesy, and satisfying—this dish brings warmth to any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas, gather your kitchen tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Baking dish or large sheet pan
• Shallow bowl
• Paper towels
• Spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: Essential for browning the beef evenly and sautéing the onion.
• Baking Dish: Holds the enchiladas as they bake, ensuring they stay warm and gooey.
• Spatula: Perfect for flipping tortillas without breaking them while frying.

Ingredients

An easy and delicious ground beef dinner recipe that the whole family will love!

• 2 lb ground beef
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 1 tsp salt and pepper
• 4 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp each of cumin and dried cilantro
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 can refried beans
• 30 white corn tortillas
• Oil for frying
• 2 (10 oz) cans enchilada sauce
• Chihuahua cheese (shredded)

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add 2 lbs of ground beef, along with a chopped onion.
2. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro.
3. Once browned, drain any excess grease. Add 1 tbsp of minced garlic.
4. Stir in the refried beans until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

In a separate skillet:
1. Heat enough oil over medium-high heat to coat the bottom of the pan.
2. Fry each tortilla for about 5 seconds on each side until they start to bubble.
3. Remove them from the pan and place on paper towels to drain.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Pour two cans of enchilada sauce into a shallow bowl.
2. Dip each cooked tortilla into the sauce.
3. Place ground beef filling in the center of each tortilla, roll them up, and arrange them in a greased baking dish or large sheet pan.

Step 4: Bake

1. Pour any remaining sauce over the top of your enchiladas.
2. Top with shredded Chihuahua cheese.
3. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas

Serving Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas can elevate your dining experience. They are perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal flavor that complements the enchiladas beautifully.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings a creamy texture and balances the spices.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add richness and a healthy touch.

Pair with Sides

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro makes for a hearty pairing.
• Refried Beans: Serve extra refried beans on the side for a complete meal experience.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and lime dressing offers a refreshing contrast.

Enjoy with Dips

• Guacamole: A classic dip that provides a smooth and creamy element alongside your enchiladas.
• Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa adds brightness and acidity, enhancing each bite.

How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas

Perfecting Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season the beef mixture well. This enhances the overall flavor of the enchiladas.
• Soft Tortillas: Fry the tortillas briefly to make them pliable. This prevents tearing when you roll them up.
• Layer Sauce Generously: Don’t skimp on the enchilada sauce; it keeps the enchiladas moist during baking.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality Chihuahua cheese for optimal melting and flavor.
• Bake Until Just Right: Keep an eye on the oven; bake until the cheese is bubbly but not browned. This ensures a perfect texture.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas

To complement your Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas, consider these delightful side dishes. They will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime for a flavorful treat.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with lime juice and fresh cilantro, adding brightness to your plate.
3. Black Bean Salad: A hearty mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and dressing for added nutrition and color.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa or guacamole make for a great appetizer before diving into enchiladas.
5. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini add texture and flavor alongside the enchiladas.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provides a healthy balance to the meal.
7. Queso Dip: A warm cheese dip perfect for dipping chips or drizzling over enchiladas creates an indulgent experience.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast to spicy flavors in your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Skipping seasoning: Always season your beef well. Without proper seasoning, the enchiladas can taste bland. Use the recommended spices to enhance flavor.
• Overfilling tortillas: Avoid overstuffing your tortillas. This can lead to messy enchiladas that fall apart. Aim for a generous but manageable amount of filling.
• Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when rolled. Warm them slightly before assembly to make rolling easier and prevent tearing.
• Neglecting sauce coverage: Ensure your enchiladas are well-covered with sauce before baking. This keeps them moist and adds flavor.
• Underestimating cooking time: Don’t rush the baking process. Allow enough time for the cheese to melt and flavors to meld, ensuring a delicious final dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently until hot. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small splash of water or sauce, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works great as a leaner option while still providing excellent flavor in your Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas.

What can I serve with Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize my Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the filling for added nutrition and flavor. You can also switch up the cheese based on your preference!

Can I make Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bean Enchiladas are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different ingredients based on your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try – it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!