How to Make Beef & Cheese Enchiladas in the Microwave

If you’re craving a delicious and hearty Mexican dish but short on time, making beef and cheese enchiladas in the microwave is a fantastic option. This recipe will provide you with a simple, easy-to-follow guide to create this tasty meal using ingredients that you likely already have at home. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this microwave method ensures a quick and satisfying result.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for beef and cheese enchiladas:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
• Optional: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes for garnish

Read More: How To Make Hot Dog In The Microwave?

Equipment

• Microwave-safe bowl
• Microwave-safe baking dish (large enough to hold rolled enchiladas)
• Microwave-safe plastic wrap or lid
• Spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Cook the Ground Beef: Place the ground beef in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink.
2. Drain Excess Fat: Carefully drain any excess fat from the bowl. Be cautious as the bowl and fat will be hot.
3. Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Microwave for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
4. Season the Beef: Add chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Add Green Chilies: Stir in the diced green chilies. Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat the mixture through.

Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Warm the Tortillas: To make the tortillas easier to roll, warm them in the microwave. Stack the tortillas and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until they are soft and pliable.
2. Fill the Tortillas: Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top of the beef.
3. Roll the Enchiladas: Roll up the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in a microwave-safe baking dish. Repeat this process until all the tortillas are filled and rolled.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the Enchilada Sauce: Pour the red enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish, making sure each enchilada is covered.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the enchiladas.

Step 4: Cook in the Microwave

1. Cover the Dish: Cover the baking dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid. This helps to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
2. Microwave: Microwave on high for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
3. Check for Doneness: Carefully remove the dish from the microwave and check to make sure the enchiladas are hot in the center. If needed, microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let Cool Slightly: Allow the enchiladas to cool for a minute or two before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to handle.
2. Garnish: If desired, garnish the enchiladas with sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes.
3. Serve: Serve the enchiladas hot, and enjoy your delicious, homemade beef and cheese enchiladas!

Tips and Tricks

• Use Pre-cooked Ground Beef: If you have leftover ground beef or pre-cooked beef, you can save time by using it instead of cooking fresh ground beef.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as jalapeños, olives, or avocado slices to customize your enchiladas.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer spicier enchiladas, add more chili powder or use spicy diced green chilies.
• Make It a Meal: Serve your enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Making beef and cheese enchiladas in the microwave is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic Mexican dish without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends. The next time you’re craving enchiladas, give this microwave recipe a try and savor the flavors of beef, cheese, and rich enchilada sauce in every bite. Happy cooking!