Welcome to the world of flavors with this Beef Enchilada Skillet recipe! It’s a delightful, hearty meal all made in one pan, ideal for those busy nights when you crave something comforting yet easy to prepare. This dish combines the rich flavors of beef, enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, all served in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Get ready to bring your Mexican-inspired dreams to life! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Equipments
To make this Beef Enchilada Skillet, you’ll need:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
How to Make Beef Enchilada Skillet – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until nicely browned, approximately 5-6 minutes. Ensure you drain excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy, but leave a small amount to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté these together with the beef until the onions are soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step will infuse the beef with a wonderfully aromatic base.
Step 3: Mix in the Veggies and Sauce
Add the corn kernels and black beans to the skillet, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Pour in the enchilada sauce, and sprinkle the cumin evenly across the mixture for that authentic Mexican kick. Stir everything together well, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Lower the heat to medium, then sprinkle your shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling deliciously.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side, for a zesty finish. Serve hot with tortilla chips for an authentic enchilada experience.
How to Serve Beef Enchilada Skillet
This Beef Enchilada Skillet is best served directly from the pan, making it an ideal one-dish meal. For an added crunch, accompany it with tortilla chips. Pairing it with a fresh side salad or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the meal, giving you a balance of flavors and textures.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure the best results, always use fresh ingredients where possible, especially when it comes to the cilantro and lime. If you’re sensitive to salt, consider using low-sodium enchilada sauce and beans. Don’t hesitate to customize the spices to suit your taste, and experiment with different cheeses for a varied texture and flavor profile.
High-Protein Powerhouse Version
Looking to boost your protein intake? You can effortlessly transform this recipe into a high-protein powerhouse by adding extra lean ground beef or some chunks of cooked chicken. For vegetarians who still want to up the protein, adding firm tofu or tempeh can do the trick. The beauty lies in its adaptable nature that can cater to different dietary needs and preferences, without compromising on flavor.
Low-Carb Charm with a Twist
For those watching their carb intake, this recipe can easily be adapted by replacing traditional black beans with more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. Using a homemade low-carb enchilada sauce will also make significant contributions toward reducing carbs. By focusing on fresh vegetables and quality protein, you can enjoy all the flavors without the carbs you’re aiming to avoid.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well: portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works well.
- What if I don’t have enchilada sauce? You can make a quick version using tomato sauce and spices like chili powder and cumin.
- How do I make it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free? Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese altogether.
- What’s the best side for this dish? A simple green salad or avocado slices complement it perfectly.
Sharing is Caring: Invite Your Friends to Try This Recipe!
This Beef Enchilada Skillet is a surefire hit for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its ease and versatility allow it to fit seamlessly into any lifestyle. If you try this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media using #AmoreRecipes. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family who could use some delicious inspiration!
Beef Enchilada Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- medium onion
- garlic
- enchilada sauce
- corn kernels
- black beans
- shredded cheddar cheese
- ground cumin
- salt and pepper
- fresh cilantro
- lime wedges
- tortilla chips
Instructions
Steps
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent.
- Mix in corn, black beans, and enchilada sauce. Stir to combine well.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover and let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges and tortilla chips.