Enchiladas Recipe: A Mexican Classic You Can’t Resist

Enchiladas Recipe: A Mexican Classic You Can’t Resist

Are you craving a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than enchiladas! This beloved Mexican dish consists of tortillas rolled around a variety of fillings—think chicken, cheese, or beef—then topped with zesty enchilada sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this enchiladas recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish from scratch!

What Are Enchiladas?

Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish made by rolling tortillas around a filling, then smothering them in a rich enchilada sauce and cheese. They can be made with various fillings, making them versatile and customizable to suit any palate. Whether you prefer shredded chicken, ground beef, or a cheesy vegetarian option, enchiladas are perfect for satisfying those comfort food cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or beef/cheese)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Enchilada Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste

For Assembling:

  • 8-10 corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup additional shredded cheese (for topping)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
  • Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Enchilada Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. Next, add the tomato sauce and broth, and season with salt. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

2. Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the shredded chicken (or beef) along with cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese.

3. Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. If you’re using corn tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side to make them pliable. Take a tortilla, place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center, and roll it up. Place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

4. Top with Sauce and Cheese

Pour the prepared enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle the additional shredded cheese on top.

5. Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream on the side. Enjoy your homemade enchiladas!

Tips for Perfect Enchiladas

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and sauce in advance and assemble the enchiladas just before baking.
  • Customize: Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as beans, veggies, or different types of cheese.
  • Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling or sauce if you like a bit of heat!

Conclusion

Enchiladas are a delightful and customizable dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just indulging in a cozy night in, this enchiladas recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and share your delicious results with friends and family