Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned and no pink remains.
- Add the diced onion to the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the spices.
- Pour in the water or beef broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Working one at a time, dip each tortilla in the oil for about 5 seconds per side to soften. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Pour 1 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to coat the entire surface.
- Working with one tortilla at a time, place about 3 tablespoons of the beef mixture down the center. Sprinkle with a tablespoon of cheese, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat the rolling process with remaining tortillas, arranging them snugly in the dish.
- Pour the remaining 2 cups of enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas, making sure all tortillas are covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese generously over the top, covering all the enchiladas with an even layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and tomatoes.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream, sliced avocado, and lime wedges on the side.
Notes
For best results, don't skip the oil-dipping step for tortillas as it prevents cracking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Can be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.