Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup canned black beans (optional)
- 1 cup corn kernels (optional, fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
For the Enchilada Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 6 ounces tomato paste (1 small can)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
For Assembly
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas (6-inch size)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced avocado
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Enchilada Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and chili powder to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken or beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the tomato paste, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar (if using), and salt. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and set the sauce aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- If using, add the black beans and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
- Spread ½ cup of the enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
- Lay a tortilla flat and spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the center. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheese on top.
- Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, sour cream, or your favorite toppings. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g