The Secret To Making The Best Beef Enchiladas With Queso – You’ll Never Cook Them The Old Way Again!

Indulge in the delectable flavors of Mexico with this tantalizing recipe for beef enchiladas smothered in rich and creamy queso. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Enchiladas:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas

For the Queso Sauce:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Other Ingredients:

• 1 cup sour cream (optional)
• 1 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
3. Fill the Tortillas: Spread 1/4 cup of the beef mixture evenly down the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortillas tightly and place them seam side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Make the Queso Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, flour, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened.
5. Smother the Enchiladas: Pour the queso sauce over the enchiladas, covering them completely.
6. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the queso is bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
7. Serve: Garnish with sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Enchiladas:

• Use high-quality corn tortillas for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the beef, as it will become tough.
• Simmer the sauce until it has thickened to prevent it from being runny.
• If you don’t have a baking dish, you can use a large skillet to make the enchiladas.
• Top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded lettuce, tomatoes, or guacamole.

Health Benefits of Beef Enchiladas with Queso:

• Beef is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12.
• Cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and fat.
• Corn tortillas are a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates.

Variations:

• Chicken Enchiladas: Replace the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken.
• Bean Enchiladas: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans to the beef mixture.
• Cheese Enchiladas: Omit the beef and use extra shredded cheese in the filling.
• Green Enchiladas: Use green salsa instead of tomato sauce.

Conclusion:

Creating beef enchiladas with queso at home is a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds. With its mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve it as a main course or a party appetizer, these enchiladas will bring joy and satisfaction to all who partake.

FAQ:

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in enchiladas. It is leaner and has a milder flavor.

2. Can I make the enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.

3. How do I store leftover enchiladas?

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual enchiladas for 1-2 minutes, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.