BEEF AND CHEESE ENCHILADAS

These Beef and Cheese Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying Mexican dish featuring corn tortillas filled with a flavorful meat mixture, topped with enchilada sauce and melted cheese. The enchilada sauce, rich with spices, adds a robust and zesty flavor to the dish.

Beef and Cheese Enchiladas

Ingredients:

• Corn tortillas (enough for 3-4 dozen enchiladas)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese per dozen enchiladas

Enchilada Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium yellow or white onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon oregano (Mexican oregano or regular)
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon basil
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2-3 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 4-5 cups water, divided
• Meat (ground meat, shredded chicken)
• Diced onions to top enchiladas (optional)

How to Make Beef and Cheese Enchiladas:

Step 1: Prepare Enchilada Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté garlic and onions until aromatic and translucent.

Step 2: Create Enchilada Sauce

2. Add 3 cups of water, tomato sauce, oregano, chili powder, basil, cumin, chipotle chili pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for approximately 45 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Preheat Oven

3. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).

Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish

4. Apply cooking spray to a large baking dish.

Step 5: Coat Tortillas with Sauce

5. Generously coat each corn tortilla with the prepared enchilada sauce.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Meat

6. Top each tortilla with shredded cheddar cheese and your choice of meat.

Step 7: Roll and Arrange

7. Roll each coated tortilla and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.

Step 8: Add Sauce and Toppings

8. Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese and sliced onions on top.

Step 9: Bake

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.

Step 10: Serve

10. Remove from the oven and serve immediately with rice.

Tips:

• Meat Choices: Customize the recipe with your preferred meat, whether it’s ground beef, shredded chicken, or any other protein.
• Adjust Spice Levels: The chipotle chili pepper adds heat; adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
• Garnish Options: Enhance the presentation by garnishing with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the enchiladas in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Side Pairing: Serve with rice, guacamole, and a side of refried beans for a complete meal.

Enjoy these Beef and Cheese Enchiladas for a flavorful and comforting dining experience!