The Flavorful Beef Enchiladas in a Skillet bring the classic flavors of enchiladas to your table with ease and convenience. Each tortilla is lovingly filled with a hearty mixture of ground beef, beans, and fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a savory enchilada sauce. Topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro, this dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavors that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything is cooked in one skillet, allowing for a hassle-free cleanup while still delivering the rich, satisfying taste of homemade enchiladas. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish provides a deliciously filling meal that your family will love, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup corn
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), corn, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- While the mixture simmers, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or a dry skillet to make them more pliable. Fill each tortilla with a generous spoonful of the beef mixture, rolling them up and placing them seam-side down in the skillet.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sliced jalapeños if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 450 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
Overview
Flavorful Beef Enchiladas in a Skillet is a quick and satisfying dish that brings the classic flavors of enchiladas to your table with minimal effort. This one-pan meal combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, and colorful vegetables, all rolled into tortillas and topped with rich enchilada sauce and melted cheese. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when entertaining friends.
Background & Culinary Influence
Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of rolled tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients, often topped with a flavorful sauce. This skillet version simplifies the cooking process, allowing all the components to cook together in one pan, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully. This approach not only saves time but also creates a comforting, satisfying meal that retains the essence of authentic enchiladas.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Ground Beef: A versatile protein that serves as the base of the dish, adding flavor and richness.
- Black Beans: Packed with fiber and protein, they enhance the dish’s texture and nutritional profile.
- Bell Peppers & Onion: These vegetables add color, flavor, and crunch, making the dish more vibrant and nutritious.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: This adds a tangy flavor and slight heat, making the filling more robust.
- Enchilada Sauce: The key component that ties all the flavors together. You can use store-bought or homemade sauce for a fresher taste.
- Cheese: A topping of melted cheese adds creaminess and complements the spices in the dish.
- Tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas can be used to wrap the filling, providing the classic enchilada experience.
Cooking Tips
- Browning the Meat: For optimal flavor, make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients. This caramelization enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Vegetable Customization: Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on your preferences. Zucchini, spinach, or corn can also work well in this recipe.
- Warming Tortillas: Before rolling, warm the tortillas slightly in a dry skillet or microwave. This will make them more pliable and prevent cracking when filled.
- Layering Flavor: When adding the enchilada sauce, reserve a little to pour over the top before baking. This helps keep the tortillas moist while adding extra flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work wonderfully.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: The combination of ground beef and black beans provides a hearty source of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall health.
- Rich in Fiber: Black beans and vegetables increase the fiber content, promoting digestive health and satiety.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The addition of bell peppers and onions contributes vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants, enhancing the nutritional value of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
- Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the leftovers even tastier.
- Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For individual servings, you can microwave them, but be cautious as this may soften the tortillas.
Versatility
This Flavorful Beef Enchiladas in a Skillet recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Additionally, you can vary the spices used to create different flavor profiles—try adding taco seasoning or chipotle for a smokier taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh salad, cilantro lime rice, or guacamole to round out the meal.
- Garnishes: Top the enchiladas with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
The Flavorful Beef Enchiladas in a Skillet are not just a meal; they are a celebration of vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients that come together effortlessly. This one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests at a casual gathering. With its combination of savory beef, nutritious beans, and colorful vegetables, it delivers a satisfying, wholesome experience that everyone will enjoy. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.