Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also good for you? Look no further! This healthy beef enchilada recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome ingredients, it's a fantastic alternative to traditional, heavier enchiladas. Get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that's both satisfying and guilt-free! This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- 8 corn or whole wheat tortillas (6-inch)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (look for low-sodium options)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Filling
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, Rotel (undrained), chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable – you can microwave them for 15-20 seconds or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture. Roll up tightly and place seam-down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas. Sprinkle generously with the shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy beef enchiladas!
Cooking Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the filling.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled firm tofu.
- If you don't have corn or wheat tortillas, you can use flour tortillas. Just be mindful that they may contain more calories.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Chicken Enchiladas: Replace the ground beef with cooked shredded chicken breast.
- Cheese Enchiladas: Omit the beef and add more cheese for a vegetarian option.
- Green Chile Enchiladas: Use only green chilies instead of the Rotel for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This healthy beef enchilada recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish while keeping your meals nutritious and delicious. It's a perfect example of how easy and satisfying homemade cooking can be, offering a delicious alternative for those seeking quick dinner ideas and best recipes for healthy meals. Enjoy!