Tex Mex Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Tex Mex Enchiladas with Chili Gravy bring a burst of flavor and warmth, perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering. If you love the enticing blend of spices that Tex-Mex cuisine is famous for, you’re in for a treat! Picture this: soft corn tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef, topped with gooey melted cheese, all smothered in a rich chili gravy. It’s a dish that radiates comfort and makes any mealtime feel special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, making these enchiladas is a fun adventure with delicious rewards.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

You can easily customize the filling and spice levels to match your taste. Don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine through! Gather your ingredients and join me as we explore this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Trust me; once you taste these enchiladas, they’ll become a fixture at your table!

Why This Recipe Works

Tex Mex Enchiladas with Chili Gravy is a beloved dish that brings together the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine, creating a comforting meal that resonates with home-cooked love. The combination of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and a savory chili gravy results in enchiladas that are both filling and satisfying. This recipe is not only simple to follow but also invites you to customize the flavors according to your palate.

Why You’ll Love This Tex Mex Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

These enchiladas truly capture the essence of Tex Mex comfort food. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a festive gathering, the melty cheese and hearty gravy will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re an excellent way to use up any leftover ingredients you might have on hand, making them a versatile option for meal prep and entertaining alike.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1/3 cup chopped white onion
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Mexican oregano (or regular oregano)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water/beef broth)
• 3 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or American cheese
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup additional chopped white onion (for topping)

Making the Chili Gravy

Brown the Ground Beef and Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. The key here is to let those onions get nice and fragrant.

Season the Beef Mixture

Next, mix in the chili powder, cumin, Mexican oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring that the spices evenly coat the beef. This step is crucial, as it builds that flavorful base for your chili gravy.

Thicken the Gravy

Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine, creating a bit of a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. This will give your gravy that luscious consistency.

Preparing the Tortillas

Heat the Corn Tortillas

In a hot skillet or griddle, lightly fry the corn tortillas in a little oil for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side until softened. Remove and drain any excess oil before stacking them in a tortilla warmer or on a plate lined with paper towels. This step prevents tearing and helps your enchiladas stay intact.

Assembling the Enchiladas

Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spoon about a half cup of the chili gravy into a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a flavorful bed for your enchiladas.

Fill and Roll the Tortillas

Place about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese at the lower third of each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place seam side down in the baking dish. Continue until all tortillas are filled. Don’t be shy; make sure to get that cheese nice and snug in there!

Add the Gravy and Cheese

Pour the remaining chili gravy over the rolled enchiladas, then sprinkle about 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly on top. The more cheese, the better, right?

Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions or cilantro if desired. The aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

Serving Suggestions

Pair these enchiladas with Mexican rice or refried beans for a hearty meal. A side of guacamole and tortilla chips adds a delightful crunch. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Tips for Success

• Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal flavor and richness, as leaner meat can be a bit dry.
• Ensure that tortillas are heated through to prevent tearing during rolling.

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that still tastes great.
• Add black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and nutrition. These small changes can bring new life to the dish!

Storage Tips

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness, keeping that melted cheese vibe alive.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but corn tortillas provide a more authentic Tex Mex flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use plant-based ground meat or skip the meat entirely, and add more beans and vegetables. It’s just as satisfying!

How spicy are these enchiladas?
With cayenne pepper being optional, you can control the spice level. Omit it for milder flavors, or ramp it up if you’re feeling adventurous!

Can I freeze Tex Mex Enchiladas?
Yes, freeze them before baking. Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. It makes for an easy meal later on!

What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar and American cheese melt beautifully and offer great flavor, but feel free to mix in others like Monterey Jack for variety. Cheese lovers will adore the possibilities!

Enjoy this hearty and comforting Tex Mex Enchiladas with Chili Gravy that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your heart with each delicious bite. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish embodies the spirit of comfort food.

Print