Name: Beef Skillet Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Cooking spray; ½ teaspoon olive oil; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 small red bell pepper, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 6 green onions, thinly sliced (white/light green and dark green parts separated); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup frozen corn; 8 (6-inch) corn tortillas, cut into wedges; 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided; For garnish: sliced green onion tops, fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, diced or sliced avocado

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Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the warmth of Mexican cuisine right to your dining table. This one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Beef Skillet Enchiladas. First and foremost, they offer a fantastic way to bring everyone together around the table. The blend of seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheese wrapped in corn tortillas creates an irresistible comfort food experience. Moreover, this dish is versatile, allowing you to add or substitute ingredients based on your family’s preferences. Plus, being a one-skillet meal minimizes the cleanup, giving you more time to enjoy your creation with loved ones!

How to Make Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Making Beef Skillet Enchiladas is straightforward, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal in no time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions so you can start cooking.

Ingredients

Cooking spray
½ teaspoon olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef
1 small red bell pepper, diced small (about ¾ – 1 cup)
1 medium zucchini, diced small (about 1 ¾ – 2 cups)
6 green onions, thinly sliced, white/light green and dark green parts separated
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
2 cups (15 to 16 oz) jarred or canned red enchilada sauce
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen corn (fire roasted or regular)
8 (6-inch) corn tortillas, each cut into 6 wedges (about 8 ounces total)
1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
For garnish: green onion tops, fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, diced or sliced avocado

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425℉.
Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, spray with cooking spray and then add olive oil, swirling to coat the bottom.
Add the ground beef, diced bell pepper, zucchini, and the white/light green parts of the green onions. Break up the meat using a spatula and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is no longer pink and the zucchini is tender.
Turn off the heat. Add chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and ½ cup of shredded cheese. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Gently fold in the corn tortilla wedges, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce and evenly distributed within the meat mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
Remove the skillet from the oven and top with sliced green onions (dark parts), fresh cilantro, tomatoes, and avocado. Serve hot with dollops of sour cream, if desired.

Pro Tips for Success with Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and lean beef make a big difference in flavor. Opt for fresh corn if it’s in season, or fire-roasted corn for an extra smoky kick.
Customize Your Cheese: While a Mexican blend cheese works perfectly, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added spice.
Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: The right balance of spices is crucial. Adjust the chili powder and cumin to suit your taste, and consider adding a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
Mix Up the Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or even sweet potatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.
Control the Heat: If you’re serving kids or someone sensitive to spice, start with mild enchilada sauce. You can always offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicier dish.

Flavor Variations for Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Chicken or Turkey: Substitute the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey to lighten the dish while still enjoying great flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and extra veggies or beans for a delicious vegetarian dish.
Cheesy Spinach Enchiladas: Add plenty of fresh spinach to the beef mixture before folding in the tortillas, creating a nutritious option that adds a whole new dimension.
Spicy Enchiladas: Introduce some diced jalapeños into the mix for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their meals.
Southwestern Flair: Incorporate diced green chiles or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for an extra punch of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Beef Skillet Enchiladas can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve them straight from the skillet for a rustic feel, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado, and diced tomatoes. Pair this dish with a side of crispy tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal. For a refreshing touch, consider a side salad tossed with a zesty lime dressing or traditional Mexican elote.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Leftover Beef Skillet Enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked mixture in a sealed bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before following the baking instructions.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————–|—————–|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sodium | 720mg |

FAQ About Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Can I make Beef Skillet Enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire mixture up to baking and then store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it as instructed. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal option.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover Beef Skillet Enchiladas can be reheated in the oven, on the stovetop, or even in the microwave. They are delicious on their own or served with additional toppings like fresh salsa, guacamole, or a drizzle of lime juice to enhance the flavors.

Are Beef Skillet Enchiladas gluten-free?
Using certified gluten-free corn tortillas makes this dish gluten-free. Always double-check the labels of your enchilada sauce and other ingredients to ensure they don’t contain gluten.

Can I use different types of meat?
Certainly! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins like lentils for a healthy twist. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type of meat used.

How can I adjust the spice level?
To manage the spice level in your Beef Skillet Enchiladas, you can choose a mild enchilada sauce and omit any spicy peppers from the recipe. You can always serve hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a little extra heat.

Final Thoughts

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are a delightful blend of flavors that come together in a quick and easy recipe, making them perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re sharing with friends, family, or indulging in a solo treat, this dish delivers heartwarming comfort that’s sure to please. With a few simple ingredients and a single skillet, you have a satisfying meal that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. Give it a try, and you might just discover your new favorite dinner option!

Beef Skillet Enchiladas