Easy Cheesy Beef & Rice Enchiladas Recipe
This delightful recipe combines savory flavors into a simple, hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. The easy cheesy beef and rice enchiladas recipe brings the special taste of traditional Mexican cuisine right to your dining table while being straight-forward enough for beginner home cooks to master. By bringing together beef, rice, cheese, and a rich enchilada sauce, you’ll be creating a delicious dish your family will love.
Growing up, my family cherished enchilada nights as a delightful escape into the rich, spicy world of Mexican flavors that our usual weekday dinners lacked. My mother would gather us in the kitchen, letting us help wrap the tortillas. This dish became a family favorite, seasoned with nostalgic memories and a personal staple for my own family today. Using this easy recipe, my children love participating in preparing our own enchilada nights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it’s not only easy to prepare but also provides an explosion of flavor and texture. The combination of beef, rice, and cheese gives it multiple layers of mouthwatering goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, it uses commonly found ingredients and can be whipped up in under an hour. Plus, it’s a dish that you can prepare in advance, making it a time-saving meal for entertaining guests.
Ingredients Notes
All ingredients in this recipe are readily available at your local grocery store. For the beef, opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the dish. You can swap out beef for ground turkey or chicken based on dietary preferences. If you need to reduce the spice level, use mild enchilada sauce and mild cheddar cheese. Remember, fresh cilantro adds a lovely aromatic finish that’s both vibrant and flavorful.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat then stir in cooked rice, a portion of the shredded cheese, and about half of the enchilada sauce.
Step 2
Warm your tortillas slightly in a microwave or on a hot skillet to make them more pliable. Ensure they don’t get crispy, as this will make them difficult to roll.
Step 3
Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly onto each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Step 4
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish, ensuring even coverage to prevent them from drying out during baking.
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Step 5
Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, these enchiladas can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each individually with cling film before placing them in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes or until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, swap the beef with black beans or lentils. You can also add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the filling for added nutrition. Spice lovers can experiment with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, or add some chopped jalapeños for a fiery twist.
Serving Suggestions
These enchiladas are wonderfully versatile for any meal occasion. Serve them for a family dinner or prepare them for your next potluck gathering. Pair them with a fresh green salad or a side of refried beans. For an extra touch, add a dollop of sour cream or homemade guacamole on top just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? Yes, corn tortillas can be a light and delicious alternative. They are naturally gluten-free and provide an authentic taste. Just be sure to warm them first to prevent breaking.
How can I make this dish spicier? To add heat, consider using hot enchilada sauce, diced jalapeños, or including red chili flakes. Customize the level of spice according to your taste preference.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas ahead and store them in the refrigerator unbaked for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply add cheese and bake as directed, possibly extending the baking time by about 10 minutes.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the culinary world, this easy cheesy beef and rice enchiladas recipe is sure to impress. Packed with flavor and easily modifiable, it’s a wonderful addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
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Easy Cheesy Beef & Rice Enchiladas Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean
- 1 cup cooked rice white or brown
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 8 count flour tortillas 8-inch
- 2 cups enchilada sauce or homemade
- 0.5 cup onion chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until onion is translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Divide the beef mixture evenly among the tortillas. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
