Name: Sizzling Beef Skillet Enchiladas for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 small red bell pepper, diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 6 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 1 15 oz can black beans; 1 cup frozen corn; 8 6-inch corn tortillas; 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese; green onion tops; fresh cilantro; sour cream; diced tomatoes; diced or sliced avocado

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Beef Skillet Enchiladas have become a favorite in our household, transforming ordinary weeknight dinners into a flavorful fiesta. This dish combines the hearty goodness of ground beef with a variety of colorful vegetables, all enveloped in delicious enchilada sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that not only pleases the palate but also feels like a warm hug on a chilly night. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Skillet Enchiladas

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick—perfect for those busy weeknights. With just one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, making it a great choice for families. The flavors are robust, thanks to the blend of spices like chili powder and cumin, which brings out the best in the beef. Plus, it’s versatile: you can customize it with your favorite veggies or beans. It’s also gluten-free, satisfying dietary needs while being delicious. Lastly, this dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers the next day!

Ingredients for Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Gather these items:

1 lb lean ground beef
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
6 green onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
2 cups red enchilada sauce
1 15 oz can black beans
1 cup frozen corn
8 6-inch corn tortillas
1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
green onion tops
fresh cilantro
sour cream
diced tomatoes
diced or sliced avocado

How to Make Beef Skillet Enchiladas Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425℉ and warm a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray and add olive oil, swirling to coat the pan.
Step 2: Brown the beef and veggies: Add the lean ground beef, diced bell pepper, zucchini, and white/light parts of green onions to the skillet. Cook for about 8 minutes until everything is tender and beef is no longer pink.
Step 3: Combine the flavors: Turn off heat and stir in chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and ½ cup of shredded cheese. Mix evenly.
Step 4: Fold in the tortillas: Gently incorporate corn tortilla wedges, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Top with cheese and bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the mixture. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with dark parts of green onions, cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Add dollops of sour cream on top if desired.

Sizzling Beef Skillet Enchiladas for Cozy Nights - Beef Skillet Enchiladas - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Beef Skillet Enchiladas

Keep these in mind:

Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a healthier twist.
Substitute red bell pepper with green bell pepper for a different taste.
Use squash instead of zucchini if unavailable.
Fresh minced garlic can replace garlic powder for a robust flavor.
Consider Italian seasoning if oregano is not available.
Use your favorite brand of enchilada sauce.
Kidney beans can replace black beans.
Flour tortillas can be used for a softer bite.
Monterey Jack cheese is a good substitute for Mexican blend cheese.
Omit cilantro if not a fan.

Best Ways to Serve Beef Skillet Enchiladas

These enchiladas are best served hot, fresh out of the oven. Pair them with a side of homemade guacamole or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also go well with a hearty dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. You can even serve them with a side of Mexican rice or tortilla chips for a fun, festive touch!

How to Store and Reheat Beef Skillet Enchiladas

If you have leftovers, simply cover the skillet with foil and store it in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3-4 days. To reheat, place the skillet back in the oven at 350℉ for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Skillet Enchiladas

What’s the secret to perfect Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors—using quality enchilada sauce and allowing the beef to brown properly adds depth. Make sure to mix the ingredients well for an even distribution of flavors.

Can I make Beef Skillet Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Beef Skillet Enchiladas?

To avoid soggy tortillas, ensure they are well-coated in the sauce but not drenched. Also, cook the filling just until the beef is browned to prevent overcooking.

Variations of Beef Skillet Enchiladas You Can Try

There are many delicious variations to this recipe! You can make it vegetarian by swapping the beef for black beans or lentils. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or diced green chilies. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Sizzling Beef Skillet Enchiladas for Cozy Nights - Beef Skillet Enchiladas - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Ground Beef Enchiladas or try making Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs for a different twist. If you love desserts, our Cranberry Bliss Cupcakes are a must-try!