5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas: An Amazing Ultimate Meal
5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are a simple and satisfying meal that brings joy to every dinner table. With their rich flavors and delightful textures, these enchiladas are both comforting and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish checks all the boxes for a great meal. The combination of hearty beef, zesty sauce, and melted cheese will leave you craving more. Imagine coming home from a long day, knowing that a delicious home-cooked meal is just minutes away. That’s the beauty of 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to create something amazing. This recipe allows you to whip up a delightful platter of enchiladas with minimal ingredients and effort. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring your family together for a shared experience around the dinner table. As you savor your first bite, the flavor of seasoned ground beef mingles with the warm tortillas, creating a delicious hug in every mouthful. The melted cheese adds richness while the salsa provides a burst of freshness. It’s a combination that truly satisfies. This article will take you through everything you need to know about preparing these mouthwatering enchiladas, so let’s dive right into it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas are adored for a variety of reasons that make them stand out as a weeknight favorite. Here are some key aspects that make this recipe an absolute winner:
- Minimal Ingredients: With only five key ingredients, you can easily make this meal without a major grocery haul.
- Quick Preparation: Busy evenings don’t have to mean sacrificing flavor; these enchiladas can be made in less than an hour.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and basic pantry staples keep costs low without compromising on taste.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.
- Meal Prep Masterpiece: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, saving time on future meals.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Getting from kitchen to table with 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas takes about 30-40 minutes in total. Here’s how the time breaks down:- Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes for gathering and prepping your ingredients.
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes to assemble and bake the enchiladas until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these easy steps to create this delicious dish:- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the cooked ground beef, black beans, and ½ cup of salsa in a mixing bowl. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Place approximately 1/3 cup of the beef mixture in the center of a tortilla. Roll up tightly and place seam side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- Add Sauce: Pour the remaining salsa over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Sprinkle Cheese: Top the salsa-covered enchiladas with shredded cheese, covering them completely for maximum meltiness.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven, baking for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool Slightly: Once removed from the oven, let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes to set before serving.
How to Serve
When it comes to serving your 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas, consider these ideas to elevate your meal experience:- Garnish: Fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of lime juice can enhance flavors beautifully.
- Sides: Pair enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
- Dipping Options: Offer sides of sour cream, guacamole, or additional salsa for diners to customize their plates.
- Presentation: Arrange the enchiladas on a colorful platter, ideally garnished with fresh ingredients for an eye-catching effect.
- Serving Style: Cut the enchiladas into portions for easy serving and encourage everyone to help themselves.
Additional Tips
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ground beef and salsa can elevate the flavor of your enchiladas significantly.
- Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices, adding chili powder or cumin for an extra kick.
- Tortilla Choice: Try corn tortillas for a traditional touch or gluten-free options if needed.
- Even Distribution: Make sure to distribute the beef mixture evenly in the tortillas for consistent flavor in each bite.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh toppings not only add flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.
Recipe Variation
Get creative with your 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas by trying these variations:- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian delight.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Enchiladas: Combine different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco, for varied flavors.
- Enchilada Casserole: Layer the ingredients in a baking dish instead of rolling them, creating a hearty casserole.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: These enchiladas freeze well! Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Special Equipment
You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools to make your 5 Ingredient Beef Enchiladas:- Skillet: For browning the ground beef.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine your ingredients.
- Baking Dish: To hold your assembled enchiladas.
- Measuring Cups: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Aluminum Foil: To cover the baking dish if you want to prevent over-browning while baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover cooked beef?
Absolutely! Shredded leftover beef can be a great alternative to ground beef.
What can I serve with enchiladas?
Pair your enchiladas with a fresh salad, guacamole, or a side of rice for a complete meal.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour tortillas instead of regular ones to accommodate dietary needs.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the enchiladas, cover, and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.
Is there a substitute for salsa?
In a pinch, you can use enchilada sauce or even spaghetti sauce as an alternative.