Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Get all those enchilada flavors you love, but in a recipe that takes half the time. The Beef Skillet Enchiladas are perfect for busy weeknights and will impress your family or guests. This one-pan dish combines lean ground beef with nutritious veggies and beans, making it a high-protein, budget-friendly meal. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas fit every occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in a single skillet means easy clean-up without sacrificing flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s as healthy as it is delicious.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the veggies or add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this dish is kind on your wallet without compromising on taste.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Beef Skillet Enchiladas efficiently, gather the necessary tools beforehand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: Allows for cooking and baking in one vessel, simplifying the process.
• Spatula: Essential for breaking up the meat and stirring ingredients evenly.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of spices for consistent flavor.

Ingredients

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 then add olive oil and swirl to coat.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

Add the lean ground beef along with the red bell pepper, zucchini, and the white/light green parts of the green onions.
Break up the meat using a spatula.
Cook for about eight minutes while stirring occasionally until the meat is no longer pink and zucchini is tender.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Turn off heat. Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and half a cup of shredded cheese until well 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

Sprinkle with the remaining one cup of shredded cheese. Bake until melted and bubbly for about ten to fifteen minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven. Top with sliced dark green onion parts, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Serve warm with dollops of sour cream if desired.

How to Serve Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are not just delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can customize them with a variety of toppings and sides that enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Green onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch.
• Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Avocado slices: Serve with sliced avocado for creaminess.

Pair with Dips

• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spices in the dish.
• Guacamole: Serve alongside guacamole for a rich, creamy texture.
• Pico de gallo: Fresh salsa adds a zesty kick that complements enchiladas well.

Present with Additional Sides

• Mexican rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice makes for a filling meal.
• Refried beans: Creamy refried beans pair nicely as a hearty side option.

How to Perfect Beef Skillet Enchiladas

To make the most out of your Beef Skillet Enchiladas, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly each time you prepare it.

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef keeps the dish healthier while still providing rich flavor.
• Sauté vegetables thoroughly: Make sure the veggies are tender before adding other ingredients for better texture.
• Don’t skimp on cheese: Use a generous amount of cheese on top for that perfect melty finish.
• Experiment with sauces: Try different types of enchilada sauce like green or tomatillo for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Serving Beef Skillet Enchiladas is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here’s a list of recommended sides that will enhance your meal experience.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with spices makes an excellent base for the enchiladas.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans add protein and richness to balance the flavors.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch to the table.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa create a fun appetizer or snack.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add smoky notes that complement the enchiladas beautifully.
6. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip provides richness and pairs well with spicy flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef Skillet Enchiladas can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Using too much oil – Adding excessive oil can make your Beef Skillet Enchiladas greasy. Use just enough to coat the skillet lightly.
• Overcooking the vegetables – If you cook the vegetables too long, they can become mushy. Cook just until tender for a better texture.
• Not seasoning properly – Skipping spices will lead to bland enchiladas. Make sure to add all spices as directed for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the cheese layer – Not adding cheese on top can result in a dry dish. Always sprinkle cheese before baking for that gooey texture.
• Ignoring cooking times – Overbaking the enchiladas can lead to tough tortillas. Keep an eye on them and remove them when the cheese is bubbly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Skillet Enchiladas

• Oven – Preheat to 350℉ and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place servings on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Beef Skillet Enchiladas.

What are Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are a quick and easy one-pan dish loaded with lean ground beef, veggies, and a flavorful enchilada sauce.

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of Beef Skillet Enchiladas.

How do I make Beef Skillet Enchiladas vegetarian?

Simply replace the beef with beans or additional vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any toppings you enjoy such as jalapeños, olives, or different cheeses for your Beef Skillet Enchiladas.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include diced jalapeños or extra chili powder in your Beef Skillet Enchiladas mix.

Final Thoughts

Beef Skillet Enchiladas are not only quick and easy but also deliciously satisfying. This recipe allows for plenty of customization—add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Enjoy these enchiladas as a comforting weeknight dinner that everyone will love!