Chipotle Beef Enchiladas

Ingredients

You will need one pound of ground beef

one pound stewed tomatoes in juice, skinless and homemade

one cup beef stock

sweet onion

garlic

jalepenos

Chipolte peppers and cheese (we use a mix of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses)

The spices are Garlic and Onion Powder, Paprika, Comino, Chipolte chili powder, salt and pepper.

Instructions

Step 1:

Homemade Chipotle sauce begins with a large saucepan.

Add stewed tomatoes, beef stock, four Chipolte peppers and bring to a boil.

Add the spices of Garlic and Onion powder, Paprika, Comino, Salt and Pepper to taste.

We like spicy food so we add spice.

If you do not like spice, use only one or two Chipolte peppers.

Boil until reduced by one-third.

Using an immersion blender, blend until a smooth sauce.

Turn off heat and set aside.

Should make 6 cups of sauce.

Step 2:

Now, for the filling.

Brown one pound of ground beef, adding one-half sweet onion chopped and two sliced Jalepenos, season with Chipolte chili powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper.

Cook until onions and peppers are limp.

Grate equal amounts of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

Set aside.

Step 3:

The assemblage is the quickest part of the process.

We use flour tortillas, corn are good also.

Fill the tortilla with 1/3 cup meat mixture and 1/4 cup each of the cheeses.

Continue until all meat mix is gone.

Place in a greased covered baking dish.

This recipe makes 6 enchiladas.

Cover with sauce, being sure to have sauce between each enchilada.

Grate the remainder of onion and add to the top of the enchiladas.

Cover liberally with the mix of grated cheeses.

Step 4:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Place the covered enchiladas in the oven for a total of 35 minutes, uncovering them for the last 10 minutes to brown.

Once done, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a minimum of ten minutes.

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Serve with Black Beans and Guacamole for a delicious meal.

Enjoy!

Notes:

Homemade Chipotle Sauce: The recipe begins with a flavorful homemade chipotle sauce made from stewed tomatoes, beef stock, and chipotle peppers. Boiling and reducing the sauce intensifies its flavors, and blending it to a smooth consistency enhances its texture.

Adjusting Spice Level: The recipe offers flexibility in adjusting the spice level according to personal preference. While it includes four chipotle peppers for a spicy kick, it suggests reducing the quantity for those who prefer milder flavors.

Filling Preparation: The filling consists of savory ground beef cooked with aromatic ingredients like sweet onions, garlic, and jalapeños. Seasonings such as chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper enhance the flavor profile.

Cheese Blend: A combination of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses adds richness and creaminess to the filling. Grating equal amounts of both cheeses ensures a balanced flavor.

Assembly: Assembly of the enchiladas is straightforward. The tortillas are filled with the meat and cheese mixture, then rolled and placed in a baking dish. Ensuring sauce between each layer of enchiladas helps keep them moist and flavorful.

Baking: The assembled enchiladas are baked at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 minutes, with a final uncovered baking period to brown the cheese topping. Allowing the dish to cool for a few minutes after baking helps set the flavors and makes them easier to handle.

Serving Suggestions: The enchiladas are served with classic accompaniments like black beans and guacamole, rounding out the meal with complementary flavors and textures.

Customization: The recipe provides suggestions for customizing the spice level, type of tortillas used, and serving options, allowing for personal preferences and dietary restrictions.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I adjust the spice level of the Chipotle sauce?

Yes, you can adjust the spice level by varying the quantity of Chipotle peppers used.

If you prefer mild heat, use fewer peppers, and for a spicier sauce, add more.

Can I use store-bought Chipotle sauce instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, if you prefer, you can use store-bought Chipotle sauce instead of making it from scratch.

However, homemade sauce provides a fresher flavor.

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

What type of tortillas should I use for the enchiladas?

You can use either flour or corn tortillas for the enchiladas, depending on your preference.

Both work well, so choose the one you enjoy most.

Can I make the enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out.

How many enchiladas does this recipe make?

This recipe makes approximately 6 enchiladas, but you can adjust the quantities based on your preferences and the size of your baking dish.

Can I freeze the enchiladas for later?

Yes, you can freeze the enchiladas for later.

Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container before freezing.

They should last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

What should I serve with the enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with sides like black beans, rice, a simple salad, or Mexican street corn for a complete and satisfying meal.

How do I reheat leftover enchiladas?

To reheat leftover enchiladas, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

Can I customize the filling ingredients?

Yes, feel free to customize the filling ingredients based on your preferences.

You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra flavor and nutrition.