Rolled Red Chile Beef and Cheese Enchiladas

Introduction

If you love hearty, saucy dinners that everyone devours, these red chile beef enchiladas are a must-try. They’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight meals or family gatherings. Serve them with rice and beans for a complete, satisfying plate. These Rolled Red Chile Beef and Cheese Enchiladas are a comforting, flavor-packed Mexican-inspired dish made with tender ground beef, melty cheese, and a rich homemade red chile sauce. Rolled corn tortillas are smothered in sauce and baked until bubbly, then finished with fresh onions for classic enchilada flavor.

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Red Chile Sauce

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp red chile powder (or chili powder)
• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• Salt, to taste

For Assembly

• 10–12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• ½ cup chopped white onion (for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef Filling
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes more. Remove from heat.
2. Make the Red Chile Sauce
   In a saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Add red chile powder and cumin, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in beef broth until smooth. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt.
3. Soften the Tortillas
   Warm tortillas briefly in a skillet or microwave so they’re pliable and don’t crack when rolling.
4. Assemble the Enchiladas
   Spoon a small amount of beef and cheese into each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese
   Pour red chile sauce evenly over the enchiladas. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
6. Bake
   Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbling.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Top with chopped white onions and serve hot.

Tips

• Lightly fry tortillas in oil for extra authentic flavor.
• Add a pinch of sugar to the sauce if it tastes too spicy.
• Serve with sour cream, shredded lettuce, or refried beans.
• Ground turkey can be substituted for beef.

FAQs

1. Can I make enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them up to 24 hours ahead and bake when ready.

2. Can I use flour tortillas?
Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work if preferred.

3. How spicy is red chile sauce?
Mild to medium, depending on the chile powder used.

4. Can I add beans to the filling?
Yes, refried or black beans are great additions.

5. What cheese melts best for enchiladas?
Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend work perfectly.