Perfectly Simple Enchiladas
Perfectly Simple Enchiladas: A Comforting and Delicious Dinner Recipe
This upgraded version of Perfectly Simple Enchiladas brings together authentic flavors, approachable cooking methods, and pantry-friendly ingredients for a meal that consistently delivers. Whether you shop at a grocery store on your weekly run or gather your ingredients from a Middle Eastern market for added flair, this recipe provides a dependable base you can customize to your family’s preferences. With a rich homemade red sauce, savory ground beef, and plenty of melted cheddar, these enchiladas offer the kind of comfort that fits both weeknight cooking and relaxed weekend entertaining.
Ingredients like ground beef, warm spices, and corn tortillas are simple to find, whether you prefer visiting a butcher shop or browsing a Mediterranean grocery store for specialty items. For cooks who rely on grocery delivery services, this recipe is particularly convenient because every component is easy to source and builds into an impressive dish without added stress. The combination of fresh ground beef, flavorful aromatics, and a silky sauce showcases everyday cooking at its best.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
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2 tablespoons canola oil
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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One 28-ounce can enchilada or Mexican red sauce
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2 cups chicken broth
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon cumin
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¼ teaspoon chili powder
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¼ teaspoon onion powder
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Meat:
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1 pound ground beef
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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½ teaspoon salt
For the Rest:
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Canola oil, for frying
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10 to 14 corn tortillas
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Two 4-ounce cans diced green chilies
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1 cup chopped green onions
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3 cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese
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Cilantro, for garnish
How to Make Perfectly Simple Enchiladas
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Warm the canola oil and flour in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until they bubble. Whisk constantly. Stir in the red sauce, chicken broth, and spices. Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer while you prepare the remaining ingredients. This creates a deep, flavorful base that rivals any sauce from a supermarket.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Brown the ground beef and onions in a large skillet. Once cooked through, strain off the fat, season with salt, and set aside. Whether purchased at a supermarket near you or sourced from a specialty shop, the beef should be fresh to ensure the best flavor.
Step 3: Fry the Tortillas
Heat canola oil in a small skillet and lightly fry each tortilla until just softened. Avoid crisping them. Drain the tortillas on a paper towel-lined plate. This step ensures the enchiladas roll easily and maintain the ideal texture.
Step 4: Preheat
Set the oven to 350 degrees F.
Step 5: Assemble
Spoon a thin layer of sauce into a 9- by 13-inch baking dish. Dip each tortilla into the warm sauce and place it on a plate. Add a portion of the beef, green chilies, and green onions. Top with plenty of cheese. Roll tightly and place each enchilada seam-side down in the dish.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas and scatter extra cheese, chilies, or onions on top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese bubbles and everything is heated through. Sprinkle cilantro over the top before serving.
Tips and Variations
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Cheese Options: Use sharp cheddar for a classic flavor profile, or blend in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a creamier melt. A visit to an ethnic grocery store can reveal additional regional cheeses that complement this recipe beautifully.
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Protein Variations: Swap the beef for shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, or ground turkey. The adaptability of this recipe makes it ideal for cooks who frequent an international supermarket for variety.
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Vegetarian Version: Create a hearty plant-based version with pinto beans, black beans, corn, or sautéed mushrooms.
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Toppings: Sour cream, fresh tomatoes, avocado slices, or a vibrant salsa all work well with these enchiladas.
Make-Ahead Tip
Assemble the dish a day early and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for convenience without compromising flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These enchiladas pair well with Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, or a bright corn salad. Shoppers who prefer buying fresh produce near me will enjoy how these sides balance richness with freshness.
Check out our Tater Tot Casserole for another filling and easy supper option that's ideal for hectic weeknights or family get-togethers.
Weekly Offers at Super King Market
Shoppers looking for value will appreciate that Super King Market highlights weekly offers on pantry staples, high-quality meats, and seasonal produce. Each week presents opportunities to stock up on essentials for recipes like this one, especially if you regularly search for a supermarket near me or explore Middle Eastern markets near me for unique spices and ingredients. Checking these rotating specials helps keep everyday meals both affordable and flavorful.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas up to a day in advance and refrigerate them before baking. This makes weeknight cooking easier without sacrificing flavor. Most ingredients are simple to source through a grocery store, which adds convenience to your meal prep routine.
2. Can I substitute the beef with another protein?
Absolutely. Chicken, turkey, or even plant-based options work well in this recipe. Many cooks enjoy exploring different flavors by choosing proteins available at a Middle Eastern market for an added twist.
3. Do the tortillas need to be fried before assembling?
Lightly frying the tortillas helps prevent them from tearing while rolling. This step also ensures a softer texture once baked. You can easily find good-quality tortillas through grocery delivery services if you prefer a more convenient shopping method.
4. Can I freeze leftover enchiladas?
Yes, these enchiladas freeze well and maintain their flavor after reheating. Be sure to store them in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Freezing is especially useful if you often shop at a butcher shop and like preparing meals in bulk.
5. What toppings pair best with these enchiladas?
Sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro complement the rich flavors of the dish. You can also add heat with your favorite salsa or hot sauce. Many of these toppings are easy to find at a Mediterranean grocery store for a bright and fresh finish.
6. Can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?
Yes, beans, mushrooms, squash, and other vegetables make excellent vegetarian fillings. The sauce and seasoning blend remain the same. Many cooks who frequent an ethnic grocery store enjoy experimenting with a wider range of produce for plant-based variations.
Final Thoughts
These Perfectly Simple Enchiladas deliver dependable flavor, easy preparation, and versatile options for every palate. Whether you explore specialty Super King Markets for ingredients, this recipe offers a satisfying meal that fits weeknight cooking and weekend gatherings alike. With its rich sauce, tender tortillas, and customizable fillings, it remains a reliable favorite for home cooks seeking comfort and convenience in every bite.