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Looking for a dinner shortcut? This skillet creation is what I turn to whenever I'm craving Mexican flavors without all the hassle. Everything comes together in a single pan, combining flavorful seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and cut-up tortillas all drenched in sauce with gooey cheese on top. Think of it as enchiladas' laid-back cousin – much quicker but equally delicious!
What Makes This Special
You'll have dinner on the table in less than 60 minutes, but it'll taste like something that took all afternoon! The combo of beef and beans makes it super satisfying while sneaking veggies into the mix. Everyone at your table can customize with their own toppings, making it work for even the fussiest family members. And you can always swap ingredients based on what you've already got at home.
Stuff You'll Need
- Ground Beef: Aim for the 90% lean variety or leaner.
- Fresh Veggies: Zucchini, red peppers, green onions, and corn from the freezer works perfectly.
- The Sauce: Grab ready-made enchilada sauce to cut down prep time.
- Black Beans: They bulk up the meal and pack extra protein.
- Corn Tortillas: Chop them up so they can soak in all the flavors.
- Plenty of Cheese: A Mexican blend gives you that ideal melt.
- Toppings: Avocado, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or anything else you fancy!
How To Make Skillet Enchiladas
- Prep Time
- Turn on your oven and find your largest oven-safe skillet - we're doing this all in one pan!
- First Steps
- Cook your beef with the peppers, zucchini, and onions until everything looks good and the kitchen smells wonderful!
- Create Your Base
- Add your sauce, beans, corn, and a handful of cheese. Stir in the tortilla pieces so they can start absorbing those amazing flavors.
- Add The Finishing Touch
- Sprinkle a generous layer of cheese on top and stick it in the oven until everything's bubbling and golden brown.
- Dress It Up
- Before serving, add all your favorite toppings - I can't get enough fresh cilantro and chunks of avocado!
Nutrition Bonus
The beef doesn't just taste great, it's loaded with nutrients! You get plenty of protein to keep hunger away, iron to boost your energy levels, and B vitamins that support brain function. Don't forget the extra benefits from all those vegetables and beans adding fiber and nutrients. This dish lets you enjoy comfort food without any guilt!
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Storing Extras
If you've got some left, it'll keep nicely in your fridge for around 5 days. Want to save it longer? Pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you're ready to eat again, warming it in the oven is your best bet to keep that cheese nice and melty.
Tweak It Your Way
Trying to cut back on sodium? Go for salt-free beans and whip up your own sauce. Need to save time? Chop your veggies the day before or switch them out for whatever's in your fridge – spinach and mushrooms work wonders! Looking for serving suggestions? Try adding fresh lime wedges, a side of guacamole, or a crisp green salad to round things out.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use flour tortillas?
Yes, if gluten-free isn't needed. Cut into wedges like corn tortillas.
- → What enchilada sauce works best?
Any red or green sauce works - commercial or homemade. Siete or Old El Paso recommended.
- → Can I add different vegetables?
Yes, recipe is flexible. Use what you have on hand.
- → Why cut tortillas into wedges?
Helps them distribute evenly and get well-coated with sauce.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh but leftovers reheat well.