Beef and Bean Enchiladas are a classic Mexican comfort food, combining the robust flavors of seasoned beef, hearty beans, and rich, tangy enchilada sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection. Topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh toppings, these enchiladas are the ultimate family-friendly meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is easy to make, yet full of bold flavors.
What Are Beef and Bean Enchiladas?
Beef and Bean Enchiladas are tortillas stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, beans, and spices, then rolled up and topped with enchilada sauce and cheese before being baked. The result is a deliciously saucy and cheesy meal with a perfect blend of textures and flavors. This dish can be customized with a variety of toppings such as sour cream, avocado, or cilantro for added freshness.
Ingredients for Beef and Bean Enchiladas
To make these mouth-watering enchiladas, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
These simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal packed with flavor.
Health Benefits of Beef and Bean Enchiladas
Enchiladas made with lean ground beef and black beans offer a balanced source of protein and fiber, making them a filling and nutritious meal. Black beans are rich in fiber and antioxidants, which support digestive and heart health. By baking instead of frying, these enchiladas are lighter than traditional versions while still delivering all the flavor and satisfaction.
For another delicious Mexican dish, try this Classic Beef Lasagna with Garlic Bread for an Italian-Mexican twist on comfort food.
How to Make Beef and Bean Enchiladas
Follow these simple steps to make this hearty dish:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
Step 2: Add the Beans
Stir the black beans into the beef mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Divide the beef and bean mixture among the tortillas, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake the enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or salsa.
For more comfort food recipes, try this Savory Beef Stew with Rustic Root Vegetables for a warming, flavorful meal.
Variations of Beef and Bean Enchiladas
Here are some ways to customize your enchiladas:
- Use different beans: Substitute pinto beans or refried beans for a creamier filling.
- Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Change the protein: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter option.
Best Occasions to Serve Beef and Bean Enchiladas
These enchiladas are perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners: Quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy nights.
- Family gatherings: Serve this dish at parties or family dinners for a crowd-pleasing meal.
- Meal prep: Make a large batch and freeze individual portions for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some tips to ensure your enchiladas turn out perfectly:
- Overfilling the tortillas: Avoid overstuffing the tortillas, as they can tear while baking.
- Not covering with enough sauce: Make sure to pour enough enchilada sauce over the top to keep the tortillas from drying out during baking.
- Skipping the cheese: The cheese helps bind the enchiladas together and adds flavor, so don’t skimp on it!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Beef and Bean Enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the enchiladas without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I freeze enchiladas?
Absolutely. You can freeze enchiladas before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen, covered, for 30-35 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
3. What are good toppings for enchiladas?
Popular toppings include sour cream, avocado, salsa, shredded lettuce, and chopped cilantro.
Conclusion
Beef and Bean Enchiladas are a delicious, filling, and easy-to-make Mexican dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, meal prepping, or freezing leftovers, these enchiladas are a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
For more delicious Mexican recipes, try this Spicy Prawn Spaghetti for a flavorful fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisine.