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. This one-pan dish is not only high in protein but also loaded with fresh veggies, black beans, and corn. It’s budget-friendly and gluten-free, making it suitable for various occasions while being flexible enough to adapt to your preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and black beans, this dish offers a balanced meal option.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out or add any vegetables you have on hand for a personal touch.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and cheese creates a deliciously rich flavor that enchilada lovers will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Beef Skillet Enchiladas effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. Below are the tools you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Cooking spray
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to cook everything in one pan and bake it directly, saving time and effort.
• Spatula: Ideal for breaking up the ground beef evenly while cooking and for mixing ingredients thoroughly.

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Ingredients

Get all those enchilada flavors you love, but in a recipe that takes half the time. Made in one pan, this weeknight dinner is high in protein and features so many nutritious ingredients, including lean ground beef, veggies, black beans, and corn. Plus, it’s budget friendly, gluten free, and flexible.

For the Beef Mixture

• 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

For the Sauce and Toppings

• 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 then add olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

Add the ground beef along with diced bell pepper, zucchini, and the white/light green parts of the green onions.
– Break up the meat using a spatula.
– Cook for about 8 minutes until the meat is no longer pink and zucchini is tender.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Sauce

Turn off the heat. Stir in:
– Chili powder,
– Garlic powder,
– Oregano,
– Enchilada sauce,
– Rinsed black beans,
– Frozen corn,
– And ½ cup of shredded cheese until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Tortillas

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

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese. Bake until melted and bubbly for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven. Top with dark green onion parts, cilantro, tomatoes, and avocado. Serve with sour cream if desired. Enjoy your delicious Beef Skillet Enchiladas!

How to Serve Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are a delightful and versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Cilantro: A handful of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the enchiladas.
• Avocado: Diced or sliced avocado gives a creamy texture that balances the dish.
• Sour Cream: Serve with dollops of sour cream for a rich and tangy finish.

Pair with Sides

• Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice can soak up the flavors of the enchiladas.
• Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast.
• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread can be a comforting addition to your meal.

Create a Platter

• Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with options like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and shredded lettuce for guests to customize their plates.
• Chips and Salsa: Serve tortilla chips alongside fresh salsa as an appetizer to enjoy before the main course.

How to Perfect Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Making the perfect Beef Skillet Enchiladas is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you use ample chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder to enhance the beef’s flavor profile.
• Layering Cheese: Add cheese both inside and on top of the enchiladas for extra gooeyness.
• Don’t Overcook Veggies: Cook vegetables just until tender so they retain some crunch and color.
• Use Quality Tortillas: Choose fresh corn tortillas for better texture and flavor absorption.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Serving side dishes alongside Beef Skillet Enchiladas can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice pairs beautifully with enchiladas.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that complements the flavors of the enchiladas perfectly.
3. Refried Beans: Smooth and savory refried beans provide protein-rich satisfaction alongside your meal.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Chili Lime Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad featuring lime juice, cilantro, and chili powder brings brightness to the table.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed in lime vinaigrette adds a refreshing bite that balances richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Beef Skillet Enchiladas turn out perfect every time.

• Using the wrong beef: Always choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. Fatty cuts can make the dish greasy and less enjoyable.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add spices like chili powder and cumin. These enhance the flavor, making your dish more delicious.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Be careful not to overcook bell peppers and zucchini. They should be tender but still hold their shape and color.
• Not using enough sauce: Ensure you have enough enchilada sauce to coat all ingredients properly. This keeps your enchiladas moist and flavorful.
• Ignoring the baking time: Keep an eye on the oven while baking. Overbaking can lead to tough cheese, while underbaking results in a cold center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Beef Skillet Enchiladas in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place enchiladas in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Cover and cook until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to customize Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

You can add different veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or swap out black beans for pinto beans based on your preference.

Can I make Beef Skillet Enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything in advance, then store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes weeknight dinners even easier!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free corn tortillas instead of regular ones. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Are there vegetarian options for Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

Absolutely! You can replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms.

How do I ensure my Beef Skillet Enchiladas are not dry?

Make sure to use enough enchilada sauce and avoid overbaking them. Covering them while reheating helps retain moisture too.

Final Thoughts

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it according to your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy extra veggies or prefer a spicier kick, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table!