Enchiladas Recipe

Delicious and hearty enchiladas filled with cheese and topped with rich sauce

Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that has become a favorite in households around the world. This dish consists of tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, beans, meat, or vegetables, and is then covered in a richly spiced sauce before being baked to perfection. The origins of enchiladas date back to Aztec times when tortillas were wrapped around small fish. The modern version has evolved to include a range of fillings and sauces, making it a versatile and delicious meal for any occasion.

Our enchiladas recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to become a family favorite. It involves making a simple yet delicious enchilada sauce from scratch, preparing a savory filling, and then assembling and baking the enchiladas to golden, bubbly perfection. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these enchiladas are sure to impress. Follow along with our detailed instructions to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or your preferred filling)
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterrey Jack, Cheddar, or a blend)
• 12 corn tortillas
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Nutrition

Calories: ~500 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the shredded cooked chicken (or your chosen filling) and seasoning - chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Warm the Tortillas: To make the tortillas pliable, heat them on a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1 minute.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a warm tortilla, place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center, sprinkle with some shredded cheese, then roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
4. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish, making sure to cover them evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the sauce.
5. Bake the Enchiladas: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your homemade enchiladas hot out of the oven, topped with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime. For a full Mexican feast, serve them with rice and beans on the side. If you have leftovers, they reheat wonderfully and can even be frozen for future meals. For a vegetarian variation, try using a mix of black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables in place of the chicken. Buen provecho!