Cheese Enchiladas

Cheese enchiladas are a classic comfort food that bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table. With layers of melted cheese wrapped in soft corn tortillas and smothered in rich enchilada sauce, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a cheesy delight, these enchiladas will surely hit the spot. Let’s dive into the magical world of cheese enchiladas that are not only delicious but also cater to various dietary preferences.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this cheese enchilada recipe truly special is the combination of homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce, gooey cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings that elevate the entire dish. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The use of white corn tortillas adds a delightful authenticity, while the optional toppings like Cotija cheese and sour cream provide a creamy finish that complements the spiciness of the sauce. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this comforting recipe!

Ingredient List

• 12-14 white corn tortillas
• 5-6 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 20 ounces red enchilada sauce (homemade recommended, or canned)
• 1 cup cabbage, thinly shredded
• 1 roma tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (optional, for topping)
• Sour cream (for topping)

What’s in the Gear List

• 9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect for holding all those cheesy enchiladas.
• Large skillet – Ideal for warming tortillas and mixing ingredients.
• Spatula – Useful for transferring enchiladas and serving.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Sharp knife – For chopping cabbage and dicing tomatoes.

Cheese Enchiladas, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your cheese enchiladas bake evenly and come out perfectly melted and bubbly.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the white corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable. This step is crucial to prevent the tortillas from cracking when you roll them.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese with some of the enchilada sauce. Take a warmed tortilla, spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture onto the center, and roll it up tightly. Place the filled tortilla seam-side down in your baking dish. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and placed in the dish.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Once all the enchiladas are arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Make sure each enchilada is well-coated with sauce to ensure they stay moist while baking.

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the enchiladas, then cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Prepare the Toppings

While the enchiladas are baking, prepare your toppings. Thinly shred the cabbage and dice the roma tomato. Once the enchiladas are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Top the enchiladas with shredded cabbage, diced tomato, crumbled Cotija cheese (if using), and a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• Cheese: Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses for a different flavor.
• Vegetables: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or black beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Enchilada Sauce: Use green enchilada sauce if you prefer a milder taste.
• Cabbage: Swap cabbage for spinach or arugula for a fresh twist.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Not warming the tortillas: This can lead to cracking when rolling. Always warm them up!
• Overfilling the tortillas: Less is more! Too much filling can cause them to burst.
• Skipping the sauce on top: A good layer of sauce ensures the enchiladas stay moist and flavorful.
• Baking too long: Keep an eye on your enchiladas to avoid overcooking the cheese.

Best Ways to Store

Leftover cheese enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they are heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also freeze the enchiladas before baking; just assemble them in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Reader Q&A

Can I make cheese enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just add a little extra time to bake if they are coming straight from the fridge or freezer.

What can I serve with cheese enchiladas?

Cheese enchiladas pair wonderfully with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You could also serve guacamole and tortilla chips on the side.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

While corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be a bit different.

How do I make enchilada sauce from scratch?

To make homemade enchilada sauce, sauté chopped onions and garlic in olive oil, then add tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened, and adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Desserts to Finish

• Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic treat to round out your meal.
• Vegan Chocolate Cake – A rich and decadent dessert for chocolate lovers.
• Easy Vegan Brownies – Fudgy and satisfying, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Lemon Blueberry Bread – A light and refreshing finish to your Mexican feast.

Final Bite

Cheese enchiladas are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that are both comforting and satisfying. With gooey cheese, savory sauce, and fresh toppings, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these enchiladas are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So roll up those tortillas and get ready for a cheesy delight that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

The beauty of cheese enchiladas lies in their versatility and ease of preparation. They can be customized with your favorite ingredients and enjoyed by everyone around the table. Now that you have this recipe in your culinary arsenal, it’s time to whip up a batch and indulge in the cheesy goodness. Enjoy!