Stacked Beef Enchiladas Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula (5-6 minutes).
3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer two tortillas on the sauce, overlapping as needed.
3. Top with 1/3 of the beef, 1/4 of the sauce, and 1/2 cup cheese. Repeat layers twice, ending with tortillas, remaining sauce, and cheese.
4. Add optional green chilies and olives.

Step 3: Bake the Enchiladas

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil; bake 10-15 minutes more, until cheese is bubbly and melted.

Step 4: Serve

1. Cool 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with cilantro (optional) and serve warm.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Tortillas: Corn tortillas are best, but flour tortillas work too.
• Enchilada Sauce: Use hot sauce or add chili powder for extra spice.
• Cheese: A cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend adds great flavor.

Variations

• Chicken Enchiladas: Substitute shredded cooked chicken for the beef.
• Vegetarian: Use black beans and corn instead of beef.
• Green Enchiladas: Swap red sauce for green.
• Loaded Enchiladas: Add bell peppers, corn, or diced tomatoes to the beef.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make These Ahead?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I Freeze Them?

Yes! Freeze unbaked enchiladas (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

Can I Use Store-Bought Sauce?

Absolutely!

Serving Suggestions

• Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños.
• Side Dish: Mexican rice and refried beans.
• Salad: A simple green salad or coleslaw.

Enjoy these easy, flavorful stacked enchiladas – a family favorite!