Beef and Cheese Mexican Sanchiladas, a fusion of enchiladas and burritos filled with savory beef, cheese, and spices!
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup canned refried beans (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
For Assembly:
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
- Drain excess grease, if necessary.
- Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add salsa and refried beans (if using), and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, heat the enchilada sauce. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the sour cream until smooth. Keep warm.
- Assemble the Sanchiladas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 2–3 tablespoons of the beef filling in the center of each tortilla.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top of the filling.
- Roll the tortilla tightly like a burrito, tucking in the sides as you roll.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top and Bake:
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the sanchiladas.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa on the side.
Tips:
- For added texture, include black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers in the filling.
- Switch up the protein with shredded chicken or ground turkey.
- Use corn tortillas for a more traditional enchilada flavor.
Would you like to explore a different variation of this dish?