Beef and Cheese Enchiladas with Red Sauce

Introduction

Beef and Cheese Enchiladas are a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic that never goes out of style. Tender tortillas filled with savory seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, all smothered in a tangy, smoky red enchilada sauce—this dish is a celebration of bold flavors and warm textures. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or a casual potluck, these enchiladas are guaranteed to disappear fast.

They strike the perfect balance between hearty and cheesy, spicy and comforting. With just the right amount of kick from the sauce and richness from the beef, every bite is a flavor-packed hug.

Why We Love This Recipe ❤️

Beef and Cheese Enchiladas with Red Sauce is everything we crave in a comforting, flavor-packed meal — hearty, cheesy, saucy, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that warms both your stomach and your soul, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed family dinner.

We love this recipe because it delivers layers of flavor in every bite. The seasoned ground beef brings savory richness, the melty cheese adds a creamy, indulgent element, and the bold, slightly smoky red enchilada sauce ties it all together. Once baked, the tortillas soak up the sauce just enough to become tender while still holding their shape, creating the perfect bite every time.

This dish also shines because it’s:

• Versatile — works equally well for casual dinners or festive gatherings.
• Make-ahead friendly — you can prepare it in advance and bake when ready.
• Customizable — add beans, veggies, or different cheeses to match your taste.
• Family-friendly — kids love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the depth of flavor.

There’s also something comforting about pulling a bubbling casserole dish of enchiladas out of the oven — the cheesy top golden and bubbling, the aroma of warm spices filling the kitchen. It’s a recipe that never fails to make everyone at the table happy and asking for seconds.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Beef and Cheese Enchiladas with Red Sauce is the ultimate comfort food — rich, cheesy, and bursting with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. The tender tortillas, wrapped around savory seasoned beef, smothered in a smoky, tangy red sauce, and topped with golden melted cheese, create a harmony of taste and texture that’s simply irresistible.

It’s a must-try because:

• Restaurant-quality at home — enjoy authentic flavors without leaving your kitchen.
• Perfect for gatherings — easily feeds a crowd and looks impressive on the table.
• Endlessly adaptable — adjust spice levels, swap in different meats, or add beans and veggies.
• Freezer-friendly — make ahead and enjoy any time.

This dish delivers everything you want in a hearty, satisfying meal — bold flavor, cheesy indulgence, and that irresistible saucy goodness that keeps you coming back for more. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s a dinner favorite across kitchens everywhere.

Prep & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories (per serving)

• Approximate Calories: ~430 kcal (based on 1 enchilada with beef, cheese, and sauce)

Ingredients (Serves 6 – Makes about 12 enchiladas)

For the Red Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar & Monterey Jack)

For Assembly:

• 12 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed for pliability)
• Extra cheese for topping
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Make the Red Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
4. Add tomato paste, whisking until smooth.
5. Slowly pour in broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
6. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

2. Prepare the Beef Filling

1. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese.

3. Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of red sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Fill each tortilla with a spoonful of beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese.
4. Roll up and place seam-side down in the dish.
5. Pour remaining sauce evenly over the enchiladas.
6. Top generously with cheese.

4. Bake & Serve

1. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
3. Serve hot with sour cream, avocado slices, or a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the beef or use hot chili powder in the sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix different cheeses like pepper jack, queso fresco, or mozzarella for variety.
• Make it Lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken and reduce cheese slightly.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with black beans, sautéed vegetables, or lentils.
• Double Batch: Make extra and freeze before baking for future dinners.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.
• Freezer: Assemble enchiladas without baking, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes extra cooking time.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Saucepan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Conclusion

Beef and Cheese Enchiladas with Red Sauce are the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and full of bold, zesty flavors. With a scratch-made sauce, perfectly seasoned beef, and golden-baked cheese, this recipe delivers everything you love about Tex-Mex cuisine right in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a big family or just want leftovers that reheat beautifully, this is one recipe you’ll want on repeat.