Enchiladas Recipe (with Video)

Enchiladas Recipe: Enchiladas are a beloved Mexican dish packed with vibrant flavors, combining a savory filling wrapped in tortillas, drenched in sauce, and topped with melted cheese. This versatile recipe has traveled beyond its origins in Mexico to become a global favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will walk you through making enchiladas step by step.

Ready to make restaurant-worthy enchiladas at home? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, ground beef, or sautéed vegetables
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• 1 cup cooked beans (optional)

For the Assembly:

• 8-10 corn or flour tortillas
• 1 cup additional shredded cheese for topping

Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, diced onions, and avocado.

Equipment Required

To ensure a smooth cooking experience, gather these tools:

• A large skillet (for sauce and filling).
• Baking dish (9×13 inches is ideal).
• Mixing bowls.
• Whisk (for the sauce).
• Spatula or tongs (for handling tortillas).

Optional: A food processor for blending the sauce or shredding the cheese.

Preparing the Sauce

The sauce is the heart of flavorful enchiladas. Making it from scratch is easier than you might think:

1. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour, creating a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust spices to your liking. For extra smoothness, blend the sauce.

Making the Filling

Your choice of filling can elevate the dish to your personal taste.

For Chicken:

• Use shredded rotisserie chicken or poach chicken breasts and shred.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin.

For Beef:

• Brown ground beef in a skillet, adding taco seasoning for extra flavor.

For Vegetarians:

• Sauté bell peppers, zucchini, and onions with a dash of chili powder.

Mix in beans or cheese for added texture and richness.

Choosing the Right Tortillas

The tortilla you choose significantly impacts your enchiladas’ texture.

• Corn tortillas: Traditional choice; sturdy and full of flavor.
• Flour tortillas: Softer, easier to roll, and less likely to crack.

How to Soften Tortillas:
Heat them briefly on a skillet or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds. This prevents breaking during assembly.

Assembling the Enchiladas

Now comes the fun part—assembling your enchiladas! Follow these steps to create perfectly rolled, flavorful enchiladas:

1. Prepare Your Workspace:
   Spread a thin layer of sauce over the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Fill the Tortillas:
   • Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
   • Add a generous spoonful of your chosen filling down the center.
   • Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheese over the filling.
3. Roll It Up:
   • Gently roll the tortilla tightly, keeping the filling secure.
   • Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish.
4. Repeat:
   Continue filling and rolling the tortillas until your dish is full.
5. Add the Sauce and Toppings:
   • Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring even coverage.
   • Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top for that gooey, melty layer we all love.

Baking the Enchiladas

Baking brings all the flavors together, giving you that perfectly cooked dish.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
3. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Pro tip: For an added touch, broil the enchiladas for 1-2 minutes at the end to crisp up the cheese topping.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the best things about enchiladas is their versatility! Here are some ways to customize your dish:

• Add Spice:
  • Mix diced jalapeños into the filling.
  • Drizzle hot sauce over the top before serving.
• Explore Toppings:
  • Sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro make fantastic additions.
  • Crumbled queso fresco or Cotija cheese for an authentic Mexican twist.
• Experiment with Fillings:
  • Use pulled pork or sautéed shrimp for a unique flavor.
  • Incorporate roasted sweet potatoes and black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your meal with the perfect accompaniments:

• Side Dishes:
  • Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice.
  • Refried beans or black bean salad.
• Drinks:
  • Serve with a refreshing glass of horchata, a cold beer, or a tangy margarita.
• Garnish Tips:
  • Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or a squeeze of lime over the enchiladas before serving.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Enchiladas taste just as amazing the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

1. Refrigerating:
   • Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing:
   • Wrap individual portions in foil or plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating:
   • For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If in a hurry, microwave individual portions, covered, to retain moisture.

FAQs About Enchiladas Recipe

1. What are enchiladas made of?

Enchiladas are made by rolling tortillas around a filling, typically including meat, cheese, beans, or vegetables. They are covered with a savory sauce, often red, green, or mole, and baked until heated through.

2. What type of tortillas should I use for enchiladas?

Corn tortillas are traditionally used for enchiladas, but flour tortillas can be a great alternative, especially for a softer texture.

3. Can I make enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble enchiladas in advance, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and bake them when ready to serve.

4. How can I keep my enchiladas from becoming soggy?

To prevent sogginess, lightly fry the tortillas before filling them. This creates a barrier that prevents the sauce from soaking in too much.

5. Can I freeze enchiladas?

Absolutely! Prepare the enchiladas without baking, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

6. What side dishes pair well with enchiladas?

Common sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

7. Can enchiladas be made vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Substitute the meat with beans, tofu, or grilled vegetables, and use plant-based cheese and sauces for a vegan option.

8. How do I reheat leftover enchiladas?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

9. Can I use store-bought sauce for enchiladas?

Yes, store-bought sauce works well for convenience. However, homemade enchilada sauce often adds a fresher and more authentic flavor.

10. What are some popular variations of enchiladas?

Popular variations include enchiladas suizas (with a creamy sauce), enchiladas verdes (green sauce), and enchiladas rojas (red sauce). You can also experiment with fillings to suit your preferences!

Conclusion

Enchiladas are a timeless dish that brings together bold flavors, gooey cheese, and a warm, satisfying meal. With this step-by-step guide, you can confidently prepare enchiladas tailored to your tastes, from traditional recipes to creative spins. Perfect for family dinners or celebrations, enchiladas are sure to impress!