Name: Beef Enchiladas Verdes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-3H45M
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb beef chuck roast or skirt steak; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups homemade or store-bought green enchilada sauce (salsa verde); 12 corn tortillas; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend); 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying tortillas); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro (for garnish); Sour cream (for serving, optional); Sliced avocado (optional, for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Enchiladas Verdes are a delicious and satisfying dish with a perfect balance of flavors. The tender beef, combined with the tangy and mildly spicy verde sauce, creates a dish that is hearty and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or serving guests at a party, these enchiladas are sure to impress. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – you can adjust the level of heat, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.

Beef Enchiladas Verdes Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (7 oz) green enchilada sauce
1 cup beef broth
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
10-12 corn tortillas
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Sour cream for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Season the Beef: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking until softened. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine the green enchilada sauce and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is well blended and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly heat the tortillas in a pan or microwave for easier rolling. Spread a spoonful of the green sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Next, place a spoonful of the beef mixture on each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and roll them up. Arrange the enchiladas seam-side down in the dish.
Bake: Pour the remaining green sauce over the rolled enchiladas, covering them evenly. Sprinkle the top with more cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a side of sour cream, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for black beans or a mixture of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Chicken Enchiladas: Replace the beef with cooked, shredded chicken for a lighter twist on this recipe.
Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture or incorporate some extra hot sauce into the verde sauce for a spicier kick.
Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas labeled gluten-free to keep this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the enchiladas cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make beef enchiladas spicier?

To make your beef enchiladas spicier, you can add sliced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also opt for a spicier green enchilada sauce.

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the enchiladas, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply bake them as directed when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, flour tortillas can be used as a substitute for corn tortillas, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly. Corn tortillas tend to hold up better with the sauce and offer a more authentic taste.

How do I avoid soggy enchiladas?

To prevent soggy enchiladas, be sure to slightly warm the tortillas before filling them, and don’t oversaturate them with sauce. Also, try not to overfill the enchiladas, as this can cause them to become soggy during baking.

Can I make these enchiladas with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish.

Can I use store-bought green enchilada sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought green enchilada sauce is a convenient option and can save time without compromising flavor. You can also make your own if you prefer a more homemade touch.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or leave the cheese out entirely. You can also add a dairy-free sour cream for extra flavor.

What side dishes pair well with beef enchiladas?

Beef enchiladas pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, or a fresh salad with lime dressing.

How can I make my enchiladas more cheesy?

To make your enchiladas extra cheesy, add more shredded cheese both inside the tortillas and on top before baking. You can use a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor.

How can I thicken the enchilada sauce?

If you find the enchilada sauce too thin, you can simmer it for a bit longer to reduce and thicken it. Alternatively, you can add a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce.

Conclusion

Beef Enchiladas Verdes are a flavorful, hearty dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests. The combination of savory beef, tangy verde sauce, and melty cheese creates a comforting and satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite. With plenty of room for customization, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Enjoy!