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 and can be enjoyed by the whole family. This one-pan dish is not only high in protein, but it also features nutritious ingredients like lean ground beef, colorful veggies, black beans, and corn. It’s budget-friendly, gluten-free, and versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet—less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean beef, vegetables, and beans, these enchiladas offer a well-rounded meal full of flavor and nutrients.
• Flexibility: You can customize this recipe by swapping in your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy topping and rich flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Tools and Preparation

To make Beef Skillet Enchiladas efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious meal.

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 tool allows you to cook all ingredients in one pan and transfer directly to the oven for baking without changing dishes.
• Spatula: A good spatula helps break up the ground beef easily while cooking and ensures even mixing of ingredients.

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to create flavorful Beef Skillet Enchiladas:

• 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 your oven to 425℉. This will ensure that your dish bakes evenly when ready.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

• Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Spray with cooking spray and add olive oil.
• Add lean ground beef, red bell pepper, zucchini, and the white/light green parts of green onions.
• Break up the meat with a spatula.
• Cook for about 8 minutes until the meat is no longer pink and the zucchini is tender.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Sauce

Turn off the heat.
* Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and ½ cup shredded cheese.
* Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Tortillas

Gently fold in the corn tortilla wedges.
* Ensure they are well coated with sauce and evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup shredded cheese.
* Bake in preheated oven for about 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven.
* Sprinkle with dark green parts of green onions, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado.
Serve hot with dollops of 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 enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, these enchiladas can be customized to suit your guests’ preferences.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sour Cream – A creamy topping that balances the spiciness of the enchiladas.
• Diced Tomatoes – Juicy tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
• Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado enhances the texture and flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions

• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are perfect for scooping up any leftover enchilada sauce.
• Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice is a classic side that complements the hearty enchiladas well.
• Simple Salad – A light salad with lime vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the meal.

How to Perfect Beef Skillet Enchiladas

To achieve the best Beef Skillet Enchiladas, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance your dish and make preparation easier.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality beef improve flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Modify chili powder according to your taste; add more for extra heat.
• Preheat Your Oven – Ensuring your oven is hot before baking helps melt the cheese evenly.
• Layer Wisely – Distribute ingredients evenly in the skillet for consistent flavor in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Pairing sides with your Beef Skillet Enchiladas can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Guacamole – A creamy avocado dip that adds richness and flavor contrast to the enchiladas.
2. Refried Beans – Smooth and savory, these beans make for a hearty supplement to your plate.
3. Corn Salad – A fresh salad with corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing brightens up the meal.
4. Spanish Rice – Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the enchiladas perfectly.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition alongside your main dish.
6. Cabbage Slaw – Crunchy slaw brings a refreshing crunch that balances the soft tortillas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Skillet Enchiladas, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Boldly skip the preheat step: Not preheating your oven may result in unevenly cooked cheese. Always preheat to ensure perfect melting and browning.
• Boldly ignore ingredient measurements: Using too much or too little of spices can change the flavor drastically. Measure your ingredients carefully for a balanced taste.
• Boldly use stale tortillas: Old tortillas can break down during cooking, ruining your dish. Always use fresh tortillas for a better texture and flavor.
• Boldly rush the cooking time: Not allowing enough time for the beef to brown properly can lead to chewy meat. Take your time and cook until it’s nicely browned.
• Boldly forget the garnishes: Skipping garnishes like cilantro or avocado can make your dish less appealing. Don’t omit these toppings, as they enhance both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until hot, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Beef Skillet Enchiladas that may help you perfect your dish.

Can I use turkey instead of beef for Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide excellent flavor and protein.

How do I spice up my Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

Consider adding jalapeños or extra chili powder to increase the heat level according to your preference.

How long does it take to make Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

The total time is approximately 40 minutes, including prep and cooking.

What can I serve with Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with rice, salad, or chips and salsa for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based options.

Final Thoughts

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors and nutrients. This versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, give this delicious dish a try!