Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Get all those enchilada flavors you love, but in a recipe that takes half the time. Beef Skillet Enchiladas are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. This dish combines lean ground beef, colorful veggies, black beans, and corn, creating a hearty meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, gluten-free, and easy to customize for any palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup—less mess means more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Enjoy a burst of flavors from the savory beef, zesty spices, and rich enchilada sauce that everyone will love.
• Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein and fiber from the beef and beans, this dish is sure to satisfy hunger without guilt.
• Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience and allow for seamless preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Cooking spray
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to cook everything in one pan and transfer it directly to the oven for baking.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps break up the meat evenly while cooking and makes it easy to mix ingredients together.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini efficiently.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Beef Skillet Enchiladas, gather the following 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

How to Make Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425℉. Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When hot:

• Spray with cooking spray.
• Add olive oil and swirl it around to coat the skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

Add the following ingredients:

• Lean ground beef
• Diced red bell pepper
• Diced zucchini
• White/light green parts of green onions

Cook for about eight minutes until the beef is browned and the veggies are tender. Stir occasionally.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Turn off the heat. Add these seasonings and other ingredients:

• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Dried oregano
• Red enchilada sauce
• Rinsed black beans
• Frozen corn
• Half of the shredded cheese

Stir everything well until combined.

Step 4: Add Tortilla Wedges

Gently fold in the corn tortilla wedges so they are coated with sauce. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Top with Cheese & Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake in preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly—about ten to fifteen minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Once done baking, remove from oven. Top with dark green onion slices, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and serve with sour cream if desired. Enjoy your delicious Beef Skillet Enchiladas!

How to Serve Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Serving Beef Skillet Enchiladas is all about enhancing the flavors and textures of this delicious dish. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
• Diced Avocado: Avocado provides a rich, creamy texture that complements the enchiladas.

Accompany with Crunchy Sides

• Tortilla Chips: Serve crispy tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This salad brings sweetness and zest, pairing perfectly with the beef.

Pair with Refreshing Beverages

• Margaritas: A classic drink that complements the flavors of Mexican cuisine.
• Agua Fresca: Light and refreshing, these fruit-infused waters are perfect for cooling down spicy dishes.

How to Perfect Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Perfecting Beef Skillet Enchiladas requires attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Follow these tips for best results.

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Veggies: Keep vegetables tender but not mushy for better texture in every bite.
• Layer Flavor with Spices: Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or cumin as per your taste preference.
• Choose Quality Tortillas: Use fresh corn tortillas for a soft but sturdy base that holds up well in the skillet.
• Bake until Bubbly: Ensure cheese is melted and bubbly before removing from the oven for the best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Skillet Enchiladas

To complement your Beef Skillet Enchiladas, consider serving any of these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances the overall dining experience.

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in tomato sauce makes a classic pairing.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole offers a creamy texture and vibrant flavor contrast.
4. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to the plate.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies provide a healthy, colorful side option.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob can be brushed with lime butter for added zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Beef Skillet Enchiladas can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Not Preheating the Skillet: Always preheat your skillet before adding ingredients. This helps to sear the beef properly and enhances flavor.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Adding veggies too early can lead to mushy textures. Cook them just until tender for a perfect bite.
• Skipping the Seasonings: Don’t underestimate the power of spices! Ensure you add all seasonings as they are crucial for depth of flavor.
• Using Stale Tortillas: Fresh tortillas will hold up better in the dish. Avoid using old or stale tortillas that might fall apart during cooking.
• Not Baking Long Enough: Make sure to bake until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. This creates a delightful texture on top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Beef Skillet Enchiladas can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Place enchiladas in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary. Cover and cook until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are a quick and easy one-pan meal that combines lean ground beef with vegetables, cheese, and enchilada sauce wrapped in corn tortillas.

How long does it take to prepare Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

The total time to prepare Beef Skillet Enchiladas is about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I make Beef Skillet Enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients in advance and assemble them when ready to cook, or make them entirely ahead and reheat later.

Are there any vegetarian options for Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with black beans, lentils, or other protein-rich vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Beef Skillet Enchiladas offer a comforting blend of flavors that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This versatile recipe allows for customization based on your preferences or what you have on hand—feel free to swap out veggies or proteins! Try it tonight and enjoy this quick yet satisfying meal with your loved ones!