Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Slow Cooker Beef Enchiladas?
They are a stress-free meal featuring seasoned ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and cheese sauce layered with corn tortillas in a crock pot.
How much ground beef is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of ground beef, which should be browned before adding to the slow cooker.
Should the beef be cooked beforehand?
Yes, you should brown the ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and drain any excess fat.
What type of tomatoes are used in these enchiladas?
Use one 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes, and be sure to include the juice for flavor.
Can I use different types of green chilies?
Yes, you can use a 4 ounce can of either mild or hot diced green chilies depending on your spice preference.
What is a good substitute for cheese soup?
The recipe suggests that cheese soup can be substituted with cream of chicken soup if desired.
How much grated cheese is required for the topping?
You will need between 1.5 to 2 cups of grated cheese, such as mild cheddar or your choice of cheese.
How can I make my own taco seasoning for this recipe?
You can combine chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder to equal 3 tablespoons as a homemade alternative.
How many corn tortillas are used in the layering process?
The recipe requires approximately 10 to 11 whole corn tortillas.
Why is milk added to the slow cooker?
One cup of milk is poured over the entire dish to maintain moisture and the layered structure during the slow cooking process.
Should I stir the ingredients once they are in the crock pot?
No, you should pour the milk evenly over the dish without stirring to maintain the layered structure.
What is the recommended cooking time?
Cook the enchiladas on the low setting for about 4 to 5 hours.
How do I prepare the crock pot to prevent sticking?
Spray the interior of the crock pot with cooking spray before you begin layering the ingredients.
How should I layer the tortillas in the crock pot?
Start with 4 tortillas at the bottom, then use 3 for the middle layer, and 3 to 4 for the final top layer.
What happens if I overcook the enchiladas?
If overcooked, the corn tortillas can become tough, so it is important to check them occasionally.
Is this a good recipe for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is designed as a 'set it and forget it' meal that is ideal for those who want a warm meal waiting when they get home.
What are some suggested serving sides?
These enchiladas can be served with warm flour tortillas, butter, or crispy tortilla chips.
How many calories are in a serving of these enchiladas?
There are approximately 550 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 33.75g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
The recipe contains 35g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content of this recipe?
Each serving provides about 30g of protein.
How many total ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 9 primary ingredients used in this beef enchilada recipe.
What size can of green chilies should I buy?
A standard 4 ounce can of diced green chilies is needed.
What size can of cheese soup is required?
The recipe uses one 10.5 ounce can of cheese soup.
Do I need to simmer the meat mixture before slow cooking?
Yes, simmer the beef, onions, tomatoes, chilies, and seasoning for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
When do I add the shredded cheese?
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the final layer of cheese soup before adding the milk.
How should the onion be prepared?
One medium onion should be diced and browned along with the ground beef.
What is the total cooking time on the low setting?
The total cooking time is between 4 and 5 hours on low.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a warm, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Can I use a pre-packaged taco seasoning?
Yes, one 1.25 ounce package of taco seasoning is suitable for this recipe.