Extra Cheesy Beef Enchiladas (Print version)

Seasoned ground beef rolled in corn tortillas, smothered in red enchilada sauce, and topped with a thick layer of melted Mexican cheese. Baked until bubbling in about 45 minutes.

# Ingredients:

For the beef filling

01 - 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - Salt and black pepper to taste
10 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) red enchilada sauce (from the can below)

For the sauce and assembly

11 - 1 (10 oz / 283 g) can red enchilada sauce
12 - 8-10 corn tortillas, 6-inch
13 - 2 1/2 cups (280 g) shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
14 - Cooking spray or oil for the baking dish

# Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and break it up, cooking until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
02 - Add the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir to coat. Pour in 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
03 - Wrap a stack of corn tortillas in damp paper towels and microwave 45-60 seconds until pliable. Work in batches of 4-5 and keep them covered so they don't stiffen.
04 - Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of filling down the center of each tortilla and add a pinch of cheese. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
05 - Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over all the rolls. Scatter the remaining shredded cheese over the top in a generous, even layer.
06 - Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the sauce bubbles at the edges and the cheese is fully melted with golden-brown spots. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately while the cheese is at peak melt.
02 - Corn tortillas give the most authentic flavor and texture.