Who doesn’t love a hearty, comforting plate of enchiladas? The Bush Family Enchiladas recipe is a true classic, blending bold flavors with a touch of tradition. This dish has a rich history tied to the Bush family, known for their love of simple yet satisfying meals that bring everyone to the table. It’s a recipe that’s stood the test of time, and for good reason.
Bush Family Enchiladas Recipe
Transform your dinner table with the Bush Family Enchiladas Recipe, a dish rich in tradition and bursting with bold flavors. Follow the simple steps below to recreate this family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 10 oz can enchilada sauce (mild, medium, or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8-10 large flour tortillas
- 4 oz can diced green chiles (drained)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1. Prepare the filling:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Sprinkle in garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, then stir in the diced green chiles.
2. Warm the tortillas:
In a clean, dry skillet, heat each tortilla for about 10-15 seconds per side to make them pliable for easy rolling.
3. Assemble the enchiladas:
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Take a tortilla, fill it with 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Roll it tightly and place it seam side down in the dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Add sauce and cheese:
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the top generously with the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
5. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and serve:
Remove from the oven. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro. Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with sour cream on the side.
Suggested Measurements Table
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Substitute with turkey |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely diced |
| Enchilada sauce | 10 oz can | Mild, medium, or spicy |
| Shredded cheddar | 1 cup | Adjust to taste |
| Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup | Optional |
| Flour tortillas | 8-10 large | Warmed for easier rolling |
| Green chiles | 4 oz can | Drained |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Adds depth |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp | Adjust based on spice level |
| Ground cumin | 1/2 tsp | Adds authentic flavor |
Bring a piece of Bush family tradition to your home with this recipe, perfect to share with loved ones.
Ingredients
To make Bush Family Enchiladas, we’ll need a combination of fresh and pantry-staple ingredients to create rich, bold flavors. Below is the detailed list of ingredients, with measures and preparation specifics for accuracy.
Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Tortillas
- 8 medium-sized flour tortillas (or corn tortillas, based on preference)
Cheese and Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Optional Add-ons
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (optional substitution for ground beef)
- ½ cup chopped green onions for garnish
- 1 sliced avocado for serving
Each ingredient is tailored to achieve the perfect balance of textures and flavors that sets Bush Family Enchiladas apart. Be sure to gather everything beforehand to simplify the cooking and assembling process.
Tools And Equipment
To make the Bush Family Enchiladas, having the right tools and equipment on hand ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. Here’s what we need for this recipe:
Essential Tools
- Large skillet: For cooking the ground beef and onions evenly. Opt for a nonstick skillet to avoid sticking.
- Mixing bowl: To combine ingredients like cheese or prepare any add-ons.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: This size gives plenty of room for the enchiladas to bake without overcrowding.
- Ladle or spoon: For spreading the enchilada sauce evenly over the filled tortillas.
- Knife and cutting board: Needed to dice onions, chop optional toppings like cilantro, or slice garnishes such as avocados.
- Cheese grater: To freshly grate cheese for a richer melt (if not using pre-shredded).
- Tongs or spatula: Ideal for handling tortillas as they soften or for serving the warm enchiladas.
Additional Optional Tools
- Aluminum foil: For covering the baking dish during the initial bake to lock in moisture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts for both filling and sauce.
- Silicone basting brush: Great for an even coating of sauce over tortillas if you prefer that method.
Quick Reference in Table Format
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet | Cooking ground beef and onions evenly |
| Mixing bowl | Combining cheese or other filling components |
| 9×13-inch baking dish | Baking the enchiladas perfectly |
| Ladle or spoon | Evenly spreading enchilada sauce |
| Knife and cutting board | Chopping ingredients like onions and toppings |
| Cheese grater | Freshly grating cheese for optimal melting |
| Tongs or spatula | Handling tortillas or serving warm enchiladas |
| Aluminum foil (optional) | Covering dish to retain moisture during baking |
| Measuring tools | Ensuring accurate quantity of ingredients |
| Silicone basting brush | Even sauce application on tortillas (if desired method) |
With this collection of tools, preparing the Bush Family Enchiladas will feel seamless, helping us focus on creating a flavorful, comforting dish for everyone to enjoy.
Directions
Let’s bring the Bush Family Enchiladas Recipe to life! Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve that comforting, cheesy perfection.
Prep Work
Start by preparing everything we need before cooking. This ensures a smooth process. Here’s what we do:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or oil.
- Chop 1 medium onion finely and set it aside.
- Shred about 2 cups of cheese, blending cheddar and Monterey Jack or any preferred mix.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Season with 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for another minute.
- Pour in 1 cup of store-bought or homemade enchilada sauce and reduce heat. Stir well and let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Quote-worthy: “Prepping all your ingredients beforehand saves time and ensures the perfect enchiladas every single time.”
Assembling The Enchiladas
This step is where the magic begins! Here’s how we assemble it for even layers and maximum flavor:
- Warm 8-10 medium flour tortillas individually for a few seconds in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
- Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla.
- Sprinkle a bit of the shredded cheese (around 1 tablespoon per tortilla) over the beef mixture.
- Roll the tortilla tightly, ensuring the filling stays intact, and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and aligned snugly in the dish.
- Pour the remaining 1½ cups of enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Top with the rest of the shredded cheese, spreading it generously.
Cooking
Finally, it’s time to cook and let the flavors meld into a delicious dish:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges.
- Let the enchiladas cool for about 5 minutes before serving to make slicing easier.
Pro tip: For extra flair, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
| Cooking Temperature | Covered Baking Time | Uncovered Baking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 375°F (190°C) | 20 minutes | 10-12 minutes |
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying these Bush Family Enchiladas, the possibilities for elevating the meal with sides and garnishes are endless. Let’s focus on ways to round out the experience and make this dish a centerpiece for a memorable gathering.
Side Dishes
Pairing complementary sides with these enchiladas adds balance and variety to the meal. Here are a few of our favorite recommendations:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice with hints of cumin and tomato works perfectly alongside the rich, cheesy enchiladas.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and slightly smoky beans provide a hearty option to complete the plate.
- Fresh Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy richness of guacamole contrasts beautifully with the bold flavors of the enchiladas.
- Corn Salad: Light, tangy, and slightly crunchy, it’s a refreshing addition to this savory dish.
Topping Ideas
Add extra flair and flavor to your enchiladas by setting up a topping station. Here’s what we love to include:
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro over the enchiladas for a pop of freshness.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of these creamy options offers a cooling contrast.
- Diced Avocado: Rich and buttery, avocado adds a satisfying texture.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love heat, these bring a tangy-spicy flavor boost.
- Sliced Black Olives: Salty and briny, they enhance the overall flavor.
- Crumbled Queso Fresco: Adds a slightly tangy, milky finish to the dish.
Beverage Pairings
Complement your meal with a refreshing drink. Here’s a breakdown of beverage ideas:
| Beverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Horchata | A creamy, cinnamon-infused rice drink for sweet contrast. |
| Agua Fresca | Light, fruity, and hydrating options like watermelon or hibiscus flavor. |
| Margaritas | Classic lime or frozen mango margaritas add a festive touch for adults. |
| Mexican Soda | Sweet, fizzy sodas in flavors like tamarind, pineapple, or grapefruit. |
Serving Style Tips
- Serve the enchiladas family-style straight from the baking dish, allowing everyone to scoop out their desired portion.
- Use colorful, Mexican-inspired plates or serveware to enhance the aesthetic and theme of your table.
- For a casual gathering, consider a build-your-own plate setup, where guests can customize their toppings and sides.
By pairing thoughtfully and presenting beautifully, we can truly make the most of this classic comfort dish while celebrating its bold, hearty flavors.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
When it comes to Bush Family Enchiladas, planning ahead and proper storage can save time and ensure the dish retains its incredible flavors. Let’s dive into some essential tips for preparing this beloved meal in advance and keeping it fresh for later.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare and refrigerate before baking
Assemble the enchiladas up to the point of baking. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven, remove the cover, and bake as directed—adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled temperature.
- Freeze for meal prep
This recipe freezes beautifully! Once assembled, wrap the entire baking dish securely with multiple layers of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Label the dish with the date, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When it’s time to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerating leftovers
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container. For best taste and texture, consume within 3-4 days.
- Freezing leftovers
Transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or wrap in layers of plastic and foil. These can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
| Method | Temperature/Setting | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 350°F | Place leftovers in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes. |
| Microwave | High | Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe plate. Cover and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking intermittently. |
| Stovetop | Medium | Place the enchiladas in a skillet, cover with a lid, and gently reheat for 8-10 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed. |
Conclusion
The Bush Family Enchiladas recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and togetherness. By combining simple ingredients with thoughtful preparation, we can create a dish that’s both comforting and memorable. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, it’s sure to bring smiles to the table.
With its versatility and make-ahead options, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules while delivering bold, satisfying flavors. Let’s embrace the joy of cooking and sharing this classic dish, knowing it’ll become a cherished favorite in our own kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Bush Family Enchiladas unique?
The Bush Family Enchiladas are unique because of their rich history and simple, bold flavors. This recipe emphasizes comfort, tradition, and togetherness, making it a timeless classic perfect for any family gathering.
What ingredients are needed for the enchilada recipe?
The recipe requires ground beef, onions, enchilada sauce, tortillas, shredded cheese, and optional toppings like sour cream, cilantro, and avocado. Specific measurements are detailed in the article for accuracy.
Can the enchiladas be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them. They can also be frozen for up to three months before baking.
How long do leftovers last and how do I store them?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge. Individual portions can also be frozen for longer storage.
How do I reheat leftover enchiladas?
Reheat enchiladas in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes or until warm. Alternatively, use a microwave or stovetop for faster reheating.
What sides pair well with these enchiladas?
Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole with tortilla chips, and corn salad are excellent side dishes to complement this recipe.
Are there any recommended toppings for the enchiladas?
Yes, popular toppings include fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, pickled jalapeños, sliced black olives, and crumbled queso fresco.
What drinks go best with the enchiladas?
Beverage pairings include horchata, agua fresca, margaritas, or Mexican sodas to enhance the meal.
What tools are essential for preparing the enchiladas?
You’ll need a large skillet, mixing bowl, baking dish, and optional items like aluminum foil and measuring tools for precision.
Can I adjust the recipe for a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with beans or roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.