When you think of comfort food, imagine biting into a warm, cheesy beef enchilada with red sauce. The rich aroma wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water as you anticipate that first delightful taste. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug in tortilla form, inviting you to savor every last bite.

I remember the first time I tried making beef enchiladas with red sauce. My kitchen turned into a mini fiesta, and my family was so excited they practically danced around the table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, these enchiladas are always a hit, guaranteed to create cherished memories around the dinner table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef enchiladas with red sauce recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
- The flavor profile combines savory beef and zesty spices, making each bite irresistible
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, these enchiladas will impress your guests
- They’re also versatile enough for variations based on your favorite ingredients or dietary needs
Sharing my famous beef enchiladas with red sauce always brings smiles and compliments from my friends and family.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option while still keeping it juicy and flavorful.
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Tortillas: Corn tortillas bring an authentic flavor; make sure they’re fresh for the best texture.
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Red Sauce: A good quality red enchilada sauce adds depth; homemade or store-bought will work beautifully.
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Sour Cream: Use full-fat sour cream for creaminess; it balances the spice perfectly.
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Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar enhances flavor; feel free to mix in Monterey Jack for variety.
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Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for the best results.
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Spices (Cumin, Chili Powder): These are essential for authentic flavor; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
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Cilantro (Optional): Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish; it’s optional but highly recommended.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Meat Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Add diced onions during the last few minutes of cooking until they soften and become aromatic.
Add Your Spices: Sprinkle in cumin and chili powder once meat is cooked. Stir well to ensure even distribution of spices and let them toast for about two minutes until fragrant.
Assemble Your Enchiladas: Take a tortilla, spoon some of your flavorful beef mixture into it, then sprinkle on shredded cheese before rolling it up tightly like a cozy burrito.
Create Your Baking Dish Layering**: Spread some red sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay your rolled tortillas seam-side down in rows atop this delicious bed of sauce.
Top With More Sauce and Cheese**: Pour more red sauce over the top of your enchiladas, covering them generously. Finish by sprinkling remaining cheese on top—don’t be shy!
Bake Until Golden Brown**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen like a warm embrace!
Now that you’ve made these delightful beef enchiladas with red sauce, it’s time to serve! Pair them with sour cream or fresh cilantro for that extra pop of flavor. Enjoy every mouthful!
You Must Know
- Beef enchiladas with red sauce are a crowd-pleaser, bursting with flavor and perfect for gatherings
- These enchiladas combine tender beef and rich red sauce, creating a cozy meal that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas
- Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef with onions, then add spices before wrapping it in tortillas. Pour the red sauce on top and bake until bubbly for perfect enchiladas.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in chicken or black beans for variety. Experiment with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro to elevate your dish further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing beef enchiladas with red sauce, use a good quality beef for richer flavor
- Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent messy spills during baking
- Always let them rest briefly after baking; this ensures they hold their shape when served
It was a family gathering when I first made these enchiladas; everyone raved about them! The laughter and compliments warmed my heart as much as the oven warmed those cheesy rolls.
FAQ
Can I use different meats in beef enchiladas with red sauce?
Absolutely! Chicken or turkey works wonderfully as alternatives to beef in this recipe.
How can I make the sauce from scratch?
Combine tomatoes, chili powder, garlic, and spices for an easy homemade red sauce.
What sides pair well with beef enchiladas?
Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad complement these enchiladas beautifully.

Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these beef enchiladas topped with rich red sauce. Each bite delivers a burst of savory flavors wrapped in warm tortillas, making them perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this dish will surely impress your guests while creating unforgettable memories around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add diced onions and cook until translucent.
- Stir in cumin and chili powder; let toast for about 2 minutes.
- Place some beef mixture on each tortilla, sprinkle cheese, and roll tightly.
- Spread some enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange rolled tortillas seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour remaining sauce over the enchiladas and top with more cheese.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg