We’ve always been huge fans of Luby’s enchiladas that comforting Tex-Mex staple from the iconic cafeteria chain. Originating in the heart of American comfort food these cheesy rolled delights bring a taste of nostalgia to your table with their savory fillings and rich sauce.
Our version captures the essence of what makes Luby’s special blending simple ingredients for an easy homemade twist. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser we promise this recipe will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
In our homemade take on the classic Luby’s Enchilada Recipe, we select simple yet flavorful ingredients that evoke the nostalgic, cheesy goodness of this Tex-Mex favorite. These components come together to create a savory, comforting dish perfect for recreating that cafeteria charm in your own kitchen.
To prepare our enchiladas, gather the following ingredients in the order they are typically used—from filling assembly to topping. We’ve noted any prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
- 12 corn tortillas: Soft and pliable, warmed briefly to prevent cracking when rolling.
- 1 pound ground beef: Lean and freshly ground, browned and seasoned with salt, pepper, and a dash of cumin for that authentic Tex-Mex kick.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped, to add a sweet, aromatic base to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, for a robust, savory depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Mild and melty, reserved for the filling to deliver the gooey, irresistible texture Luby’s is known for.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy, set aside for topping to create a golden, bubbly crust.
- 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce: Mild or medium heat, to coat the enchiladas with a rich, tomato-based sauce that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced, as an optional garnish for a briny contrast that complements the cheese.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for a bright, herbaceous finish that adds visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
Required Tools
Before we dive into preparing our Luby’s Enchilada Recipe, let’s gather the essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient. These items help us assemble and bake the dish to achieve that nostalgic, cheesy perfection reminiscent of the original.
We recommend having the following tools on hand, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Mixing Bowls: A set of medium and large mixing bowls for combining ingredients like ground beef, onions, and cheese. This ensures even mixing without mess.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 10-12 inch non-stick skillet for browning the ground beef and sautéing aromatics like garlic and onions, building rich flavors quickly.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch rectangular baking dish for layering and baking the enchiladas. Opt for one with high sides to hold the sauce and prevent overflow.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a sturdy cutting board for chopping onions, garlic, and cilantro precisely and safely.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A standard set for accurate measurements of ingredients such as enchilada sauce and cheese, ensuring our recipe turns out just like the classic Luby’s version.
- Spatula or Tongs: A heat-resistant spatula or tongs for flipping tortillas and transferring enchiladas, making assembly effortless and reducing the risk of tears.
- Oven: A conventional or convection oven preheated to 350°F for baking the enchiladas to a bubbly, golden finish that evokes the cafeteria’s charm.
With these tools ready, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps for our Luby’s Enchilada Recipe.
Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients and tools, we’re excited to guide you through preparing our homemade Luby’s Enchiladas step by step. These instructions ensure a flavorful, nostalgic dish that’s simple yet satisfying.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we prepare our components for efficiency. First, we finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 garlic cloves to release their aromatic flavors. We shred 2 cups of cheddar cheese and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese for that signature melty goodness. Measure out 1 pound of ground beef, open and set aside a 15-ounce can of enchilada sauce, slice 1/2 cup of black olives, and roughly chop 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish. This preparation sets the stage for a seamless assembly.
Cook the Filling
We begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding 1 tablespoon of oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, we add the 1 pound of ground beef and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring until it’s browned and fully cooked with no pink remaining. Next, we incorporate the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for another 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant with a savory aroma. Finally, we stir in half of the 15-ounce can of enchilada sauce along with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, letting the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to blend the rich, hearty flavors that evoke Luby’s classic taste.
Assemble the Enchiladas
With the filling ready, we warm 12 corn tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them pliable and easy to roll. On a clean surface, we spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef filling onto the center of each tortilla, add a generous sprinkle of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and roll them up tightly to seal in the gooey, savory goodness. We arrange the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. For that authentic Luby’s touch, we sprinkle on the sliced black olives and any extra cheese, creating a layered dish that’s visually appealing and packed with texture.
Bake the Enchiladas
We preheat the oven to 350°F to achieve the perfect bake. Once ready, we place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching as the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown for a crispy, irresistible topping. This step melds the flavors, resulting in enchiladas that are tender inside with a flavorful crust, ready to serve straight from the oven.
Make-Ahead Tips
To streamline our Luby’s Enchilada Recipe for busy schedules, we often prepare components in advance so you can enjoy that nostalgic, cheesy goodness with minimal effort on serving day. These strategies help maintain the dish’s tender texture and flavorful sauce while saving time.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We recommend starting by preparing the filling and other elements up to 24 hours in advance:
- Chop onions and garlic: Dice them finely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and ready for quick sautéing.
- Cook the beef mixture: Brown the ground beef, add onions, garlic, and enchilada sauce, then cool completely before transferring to a sealed container. This mixture holds well in the fridge for up to 2 days, preserving its savory aroma and rich flavors.
- Shred cheeses: Grate cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese ahead of time and store in a zip-top bag to prevent drying out, ensuring it melts perfectly when baked.
Assembling the Enchiladas in Advance
For even more convenience, we suggest assembling the full dish up to a day before baking:
- Warm and fill tortillas: Follow our steps to warm corn tortillas, add the beef mixture and cheese, then roll and place them in the baking dish. Top with sauce and olives, but hold off on baking.
- Cover and refrigerate: Use plastic wrap or foil to cover the assembled enchiladas tightly. This prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy while allowing the flavors to meld overnight in the fridge.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
If you’re planning further ahead, store components properly to lock in that authentic Luby’s taste:
- Freezing options: Freeze the uncooked assembled enchiladas for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking at 350°F until bubbly and golden, which takes about 30-40 minutes.
- Baked enchiladas: If you’ve baked them ahead, cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture and achieve that irresistible, melted-cheese texture.
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure our Luby’s Enchilada Recipe remains a simple, crowd-pleasing favorite without the last-minute rush.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed sharing this take on Luby’s enchiladas and know it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen too. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a way to capture that comforting nostalgia and make mealtime special.
Give it a try and see how it brings us all together over simple homemade goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Luby’s Enchilada Recipe?
Luby’s Enchilada Recipe is a homemade version of the classic Tex-Mex dish from the Luby’s cafeteria chain. It features cheesy rolled corn tortillas filled with savory ground beef, onions, garlic, and cheese, topped with enchilada sauce and black olives. This nostalgic recipe is simple, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, capturing the original’s comforting flavors with ease.
What ingredients are needed for Luby’s Enchilada Recipe?
The key ingredients include corn tortillas, ground beef, onion, garlic, cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, enchilada sauce, black olives, and fresh cilantro. These straightforward items combine to create a flavorful, cheesy dish that evokes Luby’s nostalgia. Gather about 1 pound of beef, 1 cup of cheese, and basic pantry staples for a quick meal serving 4-6 people.
What tools are required to make this recipe?
Essential tools include mixing bowls for prep, a skillet or frying pan for cooking the filling, a baking dish for assembly, a knife and cutting board for chopping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a spatula or tongs for handling tortillas, and an oven preheated to 350°F. These basics ensure smooth preparation and help achieve that perfect, bubbly finish.
How do I prepare Luby’s Enchiladas at home?
Start by cooking the ground beef with onions and garlic. Warm corn tortillas, fill with the beef mixture and cheese, roll them up, and place in a baking dish. Top with enchilada sauce and olives, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. This step-by-step process takes about 45 minutes total and yields tender, flavorful enchiladas for 4-6 servings.
Can I make Luby’s Enchilada Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients like chopping onions, cooking the beef mixture, and shredding cheese up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the enchiladas a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate to let flavors meld without sogginess. Bake when ready, making it ideal for busy schedules. For longer storage, freeze uncooked or baked enchiladas for up to 3 months.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker results. For freezing, wrap portions tightly and store for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.