Weeknight Enchiladas

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner option that packs a punch in flavor, look no further than these Weeknight Enchiladas. This dish is perfect for busy evenings, bringing comfort and deliciousness to the table without requiring hours of prep. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that everyone in your family will love. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into a fiesta of flavors!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something truly special about enchiladas. They are versatile, easy to make, and can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. What I love most about this Weeknight Enchiladas recipe is that it combines the heartiness of ground beef with the rich flavors of enchilada sauce and cheese, all wrapped snugly in flour tortillas. It’s a dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and is sure to become a staple in your weeknight rotation. Plus, it’s simple enough that even the busiest of weeknights won’t deter you from making this delicious meal.

What’s in the Bowl

To make these tasty Weeknight Enchiladas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – The star of our enchiladas, providing a hearty base.
• 2 Tbsp dried minced onion (optional) – Adds depth and flavor to the beef.
• 1 (10.5-oz) can tomato soup – Brings moisture and a hint of sweetness.
• 1 (10-oz) can mild enchilada sauce – The essential ingredient for that classic enchilada flavor.
• 8 (7-8 inch) flour tortillas – The perfect wrap for our filling.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese – For that melty, cheesy goodness.

What’s in the Gear List

Make sure you have the following gear ready for a smooth cooking experience:

• Large skillet – For browning the ground beef and mixing in the other ingredients.
• Mixing spoon – To combine everything together seamlessly.
• Casserole dish – Where the enchiladas will bake to perfection.
• Aluminum foil – To cover the dish while it bakes, ensuring the cheese doesn’t over-brown.
• Oven mitts – Always handy for safely removing hot dishes from the oven.

Make Weeknight Enchiladas: A Simple Method

Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Follow these easy steps to create your Weeknight Enchiladas.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. If you’re using dried minced onion, sprinkle it in now. Cook the beef until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Mix in the Goodness

Once the beef is nicely browned, stir in the can of tomato soup and the can of enchilada sauce. Mix everything together until well combined and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

While the beef mixture is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, take each flour tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto the center. Sprinkle a little cheese on top, then roll the tortilla tightly around the filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a greased casserole dish. Once all the enchiladas are in the dish, pour any remaining beef mixture over the top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the enchiladas.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Better Choices & Swaps

Here are some suggestions to customize your Weeknight Enchiladas:

• Ground turkey or chicken: A leaner alternative to beef that still delivers on flavor.
• Black beans or lentils: For a vegetarian option, these can add protein and texture.
• Whole wheat tortillas: A healthier option if you prefer whole grains.
• Spicy enchilada sauce: If you like a kick, swap out the mild sauce for something spicier.
• Fresh vegetables: Add diced bell peppers or spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.

What Could Go Wrong

While this recipe is quite forgiving, a few things could go awry:

• Overcooking the beef can lead to a dry filling; make sure to watch it closely.
• Using too much sauce can make the enchiladas soggy, so stick to the recommended amounts.
• Not rolling the tortillas tightly may cause them to unroll during baking.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because they’re so good!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in individual portions, just be careful not to overheat, or the tortillas may become tough.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my tortillas break while rolling?

If your tortillas are breaking, they may be too cold or not pliable enough. Try warming them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before rolling to make them more flexible.

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas up to the baking step, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since they’ll be cold from the fridge.

How can I make these enchiladas spicier?

For a spicier kick, consider using a spicy enchilada sauce, adding diced jalapeños to the filling, or even sprinkling some red pepper flakes on top before baking.

What should I serve with my enchiladas?

These enchiladas are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. Don’t forget avocado or sour cream for dipping!

Our Most-Loved Recipes

If you enjoyed these Weeknight Enchiladas, you might want to check out some of our other favorites:

• Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta – A decadent and quick pasta dish.
• One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken – A simple yet flavorful dinner made in one pan.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu – A colorful and healthy weeknight meal.
• Easy Homemade Pizza – Customize your pizza just the way you like it.

Before You Go

As you dive into making these Weeknight Enchiladas, remember that cooking is all about enjoying the process and sharing good food with those you love. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a meal that’s not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. So gather your family around the table, serve up these cheesy delights, and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!