Beef Skillet Enchiladas Recipe

If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor, this Beef Skillet Enchiladas Recipe is just what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan dish offers all the deliciousness of traditional enchiladas with minimal cleanup. It’s a comforting, savory meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for families or anyone who loves a quick, satisfying dinner. Plus, it’s customizable—great for those who like to mix up their veggies or protein.

What Are Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

Unlike traditional enchiladas, which are typically rolled and baked in a casserole dish, Beef Skillet Enchiladas are deconstructed and cooked in a single skillet. This method not only saves time but also adds a fun, casual twist to the classic Mexican dish. The corn tortillas are cut into wedges and stirred into a flavorful combination of seasoned beef, vegetables, beans, and corn, all simmered in rich enchilada sauce. The whole skillet is topped with gooey melted cheese and finished with fresh garnishes like cilantro, tomatoes, and avocado.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a look at the key ingredients you’ll need to make this Beef Skillet Enchiladas Recipe and why they’re essential:

• Cooking spray & olive oil: Helps the beef brown evenly without sticking.
• Lean ground beef (1 lb): The main protein source, offering a rich, meaty flavor.
• Red bell pepper (1 small): Adds sweetness and a nice pop of color.
• Zucchini (1 medium): Offers a tender texture and sneaks in some healthy greens.
• Green onions (6): The white and light green parts cook with the beef, while the dark parts are used as a garnish.
• Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano: This spice blend gives the dish that classic Mexican flavor.
• Red enchilada sauce (2 cups): The base of the sauce, providing a tangy, slightly spicy flavor.
• Black beans (15 oz can): Adds protein, fiber, and texture.
• Frozen corn (1 cup): Offers sweetness and a contrasting texture.
• Corn tortillas (8, cut into wedges): These absorb the sauce and help form the “enchilada” part of the dish.
• Mexican blend cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded): A blend of cheeses that melt perfectly over the skillet.

For garnish: Add fresh flavor with chopped green onions, cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and avocado.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make this recipe, gather the following tools:

• Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best)
• Spatula for stirring and breaking up the beef
• Cutting board and sharp knife for chopping veggies
• Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient portions
• Can opener for beans
• Cooking spray for greasing the skillet

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Follow these simple steps to make this delicious, cheesy skillet dish:

1. Preheat the oven to 425℉: Start by setting the oven to a high temperature so it’s ready to melt the cheese and give the dish a bubbly finish.
2. Cook the beef and veggies: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray and add ½ teaspoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef, diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and the white and light green parts of the green onions. Cook for about 8 minutes, breaking up the beef as it cooks. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is no longer pink, and the zucchini is tender.
3. Season and add the enchilada sauce: Turn off the heat, then stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano. Add the enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn, stirring everything together until well combined.
4. Incorporate the tortillas: Gently fold in the corn tortilla wedges, making sure each piece is well-coated in the sauce. This step ensures the tortillas absorb all the delicious flavors and prevent them from becoming soggy.
5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheese into the skillet, mixing it throughout. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake until bubbly: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and serve: Once the skillet is out of the oven, sprinkle with the dark green parts of the green onions, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Serve with dollops of sour cream if desired.

Tips for Perfect Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, or opt for ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
• Pre-cook the veggies with the beef to ensure even cooking and to enhance the flavor of the vegetables.
• Don’t over-stir the tortillas once they’re added to the skillet. Gently folding them in will keep them intact and help them absorb the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Soggy tortillas: To prevent this, don’t add the tortillas too early in the cooking process. Add them just before placing the skillet in the oven to maintain their texture.
• Overcooked cheese: Keep an eye on the cheese while it’s baking. If you leave it in the oven for too long, the cheese can become hard and chewy instead of soft and melty.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your Beef Skillet Enchiladas family-style, straight from the skillet. The vibrant garnishes—fresh cilantro, green onions, and avocado—add beautiful color, while the melted cheese creates an irresistible look. For a full meal, pair this dish with a simple side salad, some rice, or refried beans. Add a few slices of lime on the side for those who enjoy a citrusy kick.

Variations on the Recipe

This recipe is highly adaptable! Try these variations to make it your own:

• Vegetarian version: Skip the ground beef and add more black beans, pinto beans, or even cooked lentils.
• Chicken skillet enchiladas: Swap the beef for shredded cooked chicken, and use green enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Add heat: If you prefer spicier enchiladas, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning the beef.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. To prevent the tortillas from getting too soft when reheating, you can also reheat them in the oven at 350℉ for about 10 minutes.

FAQ About Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the beef and veggie mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day. Add the tortillas and bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn? While flour tortillas can be used, corn tortillas are recommended for their texture and ability to hold up better in the sauce.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure your enchilada sauce and tortillas are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Beef Skillet Enchiladas Recipe is a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or anytime you want comfort food without the fuss. With flavorful beef, tender veggies, and melty cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! Also, subscribe to our blog for more easy, delicious recipes like this one.

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