Easy Homemade Enchiladas Recipe | Mexican Classic

Enchiladas are a favorite Mexican dish loved by many around the world. This homemade enchiladas recipe is quick to make, with a prep time of just 35 minutes. It’s perfect for those who love authentic Mexican enchiladas or want to add a Mexican twist to their meals.

Key Takeaways

Authentic Mexican-style enchiladas typically use corn tortillas, while Tex-Mex and American-style may use flour tortillas.
This recipe provides a traditional method for making enchiladas, with a homemade red enchilada sauce that enhances the flavor of the dish.
The recipe is versatile, allowing for customization with various protein fillings and the option to make it gluten-free.
Enchiladas are a popular dish in Mexico, the US, and Latin America, often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch in some regions.
This recipe yields 6 servings, making it a perfect family meal that can be prepared ahead of time for meal prepping or frozen as leftovers.

Introduction to Mexican Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a favorite in Mexican cuisine. They have deep roots in the country’s rich food traditions. These rolled corn tortillas, filled with various ingredients and covered in tasty sauces, are loved by many.

History and Cultural Significance

The history of enchiladas goes back to the Aztecs. They made them with tortillas dipped in chili sauce. Over time, traditional enchiladas spread across Mexico, showing the country’s diverse food culture.

Why Enchiladas are a Perfect Family Meal

Enchiladas are not just tasty; they’re also great for families. They can be made with many fillings, from meat to vegetarian and vegan options. This makes them perfect for any family dinner, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend meal.

“Enchiladas are a true taste of Mexico, bringing families together around the table with their comforting flavors and vibrant colors.”

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Enchiladas

Making delicious Mexican enchiladas starts with the right ingredients. Corn tortillas, rich enchilada sauce, and traditional Mexican spices are key. Let’s look at what makes an enchilada truly authentic.

At the heart of any enchilada recipe are the corn tortillas. These pliable, flavorful shells are the base. The recipe calls for 14 corn tortillas to make the enchiladas.

The enchilada sauce is the main attraction. It’s made from dried chiles, stock or water, a bullion cube, garlic, and onion. This mix gives the sauce its depth and complexity.

No authentic enchilada is complete without queso fresco, a traditional Mexican cheese. This fresh, crumbly cheese contrasts well with the rich sauce. Mozzarella cheese can also be used as a substitute.

The recipe also suggests various fillings like shredded meat, Frijoles Refritos, or Calabacitas. These are topped with shredded lettuce, radishes, and more queso fresco. This makes the dish satisfying and flavorful.

By choosing and combining these essential ingredients, you can make authentic and delicious Mexican enchiladas at home.

Equipment and Kitchen Tools Needed

Making real enchiladas needs a few key tools. A comal or griddle is vital for toasting chili peppers. A strong blender is also key to blend the sauce smoothly.

You’ll also need a big skillet or frying pan to crisp tortillas. A baking dish, especially one with high sides, is important for baking the enchiladas right.

Traditional vs. Modern Cooking Tools

Old-school Mexican enchilada recipes use a comal. But, today, many people toast peppers in a cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan. A high-powered blender can replace the traditional molcajete for sauce making.

Optional Cooking Equipment

Food processor: Great for chopping fillings like comal-roasted veggies or shredded chicken finely.
Blender: Essential for making the enchilada sauce, but a food processor works too.
Strainer: Handy for draining and rinsing the baking dish chiles before blending.
Microwave: Quick for warming the frying pan tortillas before making the enchiladas.

With these tools, you’re set to make tasty, homemade enchiladas in your kitchen.

Enchiladas Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Making homemade enchiladas is a fun cooking journey. Follow this guide to make real Mexican enchiladas at home.

Begin by making the enchilada sauce. Cook 3/4 cup of chopped onions and 1 minced garlic clove in 1/4 cup of olive oil. Then, add a (14-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, 3/4 cup of chopped cooked green chiles or 1/3 cup of chopped pickled jalapeños, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
While the sauce cooks, prepare and shred 1 pound of your favorite meat, like chicken or beef. This will give you about 3 cups of shredded meat.
Warm 12 corn tortillas in a skillet or on a griddle. This makes them easy to roll.
Put a thin layer of the enchilada sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each tortilla with some shredded meat and 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, like Jack and cheddar. Roll them up and place them seam-side down in the dish.
Top the enchiladas with the rest of the enchilada sauce and the remaining cheese, about 4 cups total.
Bake the enchiladas in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. They’re done when the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve the homemade enchiladas hot. Add fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy this classic Mexican cooking dish with your loved ones!

Making the Perfect Red Enchilada Sauce

Creating a rich and flavorful homemade enchilada sauce is key to authentic Mexican taste. The secret is in the dried chiles used as the sauce’s base.

Traditional Pepper Selection

The classic red enchilada sauce uses guajillo and ancho peppers. These dried Mexican chiles add a deep, earthy flavor and a bit of heat. Roasting the peppers first brings out their complex aromas.

Then, they are simmered in broth to soften. This step enhances their flavor.

Blending and Seasoning Tips

After the peppers are soft, they are blended into a smooth purée. This includes garlic, Mexican spices like cumin and oregano, and a bit of tomato sauce or paste. The mixture is then simmered with vegetable broth to blend the flavors.

Some recipes add Mexican chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.

With a few simple steps, you can make a homemade enchilada sauce that will take your enchiladas to the next level. The homemade sauce has an average rating of 4.85 out of 5 from 13 votes. It’s praised for its exceptional flavor and ease of preparation.

“The homemade enchilada sauce is a game-changer! It’s so much better than anything you can buy at the store. I’ll never go back to the canned stuff again.”

Preparing the Tortillas

Making the perfect enchiladas begins with the tortillas. In this classic Mexican dish, corn tortillas are the main attraction. They provide a pliable base for the tasty fillings. To get your tortillas ready, you need to prepare them properly.

To soften corn tortillas, you can fry them in hot oil. This frying technique makes them pliable and adds a nice crunch. Heat a shallow layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Then, quickly dip each tortilla for 10-15 seconds on each side. This will make them lightly golden and soft.

If you prefer a quicker method, you can warm the tortillas in the microwave. Place them in a stack, wrapped in a damp paper towel. Microwave in 30-second intervals until they’re warm and pliable.

Whether you fry or microwave, aim to make the corn tortillas soft and easy to roll. This step is crucial for a sturdy, flavorful base. It will help your enchiladas hold the delicious fillings and toppings well.

Tortilla Preparation Method	Time Required	Advantages
Frying in Oil	10-15 seconds per tortilla	Adds crunch and depth of flavor
Microwaving with Damp Towel	30-second intervals	Quicker and more convenient

By carefully preparing the corn tortillas, you create a strong, flavorful base for your enchiladas. This foundational step is key to making a delicious Mexican classic.

Filling Options and Variations

Enchiladas come in many flavors, pleasing everyone’s taste. You can enjoy shredded chicken, beef enchiladas, or vegetarian enchiladas. There’s something for every taste.

Meat-Based Fillings

Shredded chicken enchiladas are a favorite, with tender chicken in warm tortillas and red sauce. For a stronger taste, beef enchiladas use ground beef or shredded chuck roast. They’re seasoned with spices and simmered in a chili sauce.

Vegetarian Alternatives

Vegetarian enchiladas are a tasty meatless option. They can have sautéed veggies or a mix of black beans, corn, and cheese. You can also go for cheese-only enchiladas for a cheesy delight.

Enchiladas are great because you can pick your fillings. They’re perfect for a meal that everyone will enjoy.

“Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food, with their warm tortillas, flavorful fillings, and tantalizing sauces. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating delicious and satisfying enchilada variations.”

Assembly Techniques and Tips

Making rolling enchiladas is an art that needs precision and care. Begin by warming your tortillas. This makes them soft and easier to roll. You can warm them in the microwave for 30 seconds or lightly fry them.

Then, spread the filling evenly in the center of each tortilla. Don’t overstuff them. This helps keep the filling even and prevents spills. Roll the tortillas tightly, tucking in the ends as you go. Place them seam-side down in your baking dish.

Warm tortillas to make them pliable
Spread the filling evenly along the center of each tortilla
Roll the tortillas tightly, tucking in the ends
Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish

By following these steps, you’ll make a batch of enchiladas that will wow everyone. The secret is to take your time and do each step carefully. This way, you’ll get a delicious and beautiful Mexican dish.

“Enchiladas are a true labor of love, but the end result is always worth the effort.”

Cheese Selection and Toppings

Enchiladas need the right cheese and toppings to be perfect. In Mexico, queso fresco and cotija cheese are favorites. But, many people use Mexican blend cheese for its convenience.

Traditional Mexican Cheeses

Queso fresco is a soft, white cheese that melts well. It adds a creamy touch to enchiladas. Cotija cheese is hard and salty. It’s great on top for a nice contrast.

Garnish Options

Chopped fresh cilantro
Diced white or red onions
Dollops of sour cream
Sliced avocado
Sliced black olives
Pickled jalapeños

These toppings add flavor and make your enchiladas look amazing. They make your dish hard to resist.

Ingredient	Quantity
Shredded cheddar cheese	3 cups
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese	2 1/2 cups
Sliced black olives	1/2 cup
Sliced green onions	1/4 cup

Choosing the right cheeses and toppings can make your enchiladas taste and look better.

Baking Instructions and Temperature Guide

Now that you’ve put together your enchiladas, it’s time to bake them. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get ready to enjoy the smell of baking enchiladas.

Put the enchiladas in a baking dish, making sure they fit in one layer. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to stop the melted cheese from getting too brown.

Bake the enchiladas for about 20 minutes. This will melt the cheese and make it bubbly and delicious.
Take off the foil for the last 5 minutes. This lets the tops brown a bit and the edges get crispy.
Watch the enchiladas closely to avoid them getting too dark. Oven temperatures can differ.

Nutrition Facts	Per Serving
Total Fat	26g
Saturated Fat	14g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	90mg
Sodium	1630mg
Potassium	310mg
Total Carbohydrate	44g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	2g
Protein	29g
Calcium	35% of Daily Value
Iron	25% of Daily Value

This recipe makes 8 servings and has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from 81 reviews. With these baking tips and the right oven temperature, your homemade enchiladas will be a hit!

Storage and Reheating Methods

Leftover enchiladas can be a delightful treat. But, it’s important to store and reheat them right to keep their flavor and texture. Whether you have extra leftover enchiladas or want to freeze enchiladas for later, these tips will help you enjoy them fully.

Refrigerating Leftover Enchiladas

If you have leftover enchiladas, put them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the tortillas from getting soggy. You can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or skillet, whichever you like.

Freezing Enchiladas

To store them longer, you can freeze enchiladas for up to 3 months. Cool them down first, then wrap them in aluminum foil or put them in an airtight container. When you’re ready, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, until hot.
Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking and adjusting as needed. Poking holes helps prevent sogginess.
Skillet: Warm over medium heat for 2-4 minutes, flipping to heat evenly.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, until hot.

Choose your method, but add extra enchilada sauce or broth if it’s dry. This prevents the tortillas from getting too brittle. The goal is to reheat gently to avoid a soggy or dry result.

“Proper storage and reheating techniques are the secrets to enjoying delicious leftover enchiladas.”

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Make your enchilada meal even better with a variety of side dishes. Try classic choices like Mexican rice, refried beans, and guacamole. These dishes add flavor and texture, making your meal complete.

Traditional Accompaniments

Explore Mexico’s rich food culture with traditional sides. Mexican rice adds spice and texture. Refried beans bring comfort. And guacamole adds a fresh, tangy touch.

Modern Pairing Ideas

Try new sides to mix up your enchilada meal. A Mexican salad with fresh lettuce and lime dressing is a great contrast. Or, go for a roasted vegetable medley for a hearty option.

Enchilada Variety	Recommended Side Dishes
Vegetarian Enchiladas	Mexican Rice, Refried Beans, Guacamole
Beef Short Ribs Enchiladas	Lime and Coriander Rice, Mexican Bean Salad, Chips and Salsa
Green Chicken Enchiladas	Black Beans and Rice, Mexican Salad, Tomatillo Salsa
Vegan Enchiladas	Frijoles, Arroz Primavera, Chipotle Salsa
Turkey Enchiladas	Refried Beans, Chips and Guacamole, Red Pepper Salsa
Chorizo Enchiladas	Mexican Rice, Mexican Black Beans, Hot Habanero Mango Salsa
Chicken Enchiladas	Lime and Coriander Rice, Roasted Vegetables, Black Bean Salsa

Enchiladas are all about trying new things. Explore Mexican cuisine and find your favorite sides. Let your creativity guide you in making the perfect meal.

Conclusion

Homemade Mexican food, like this enchilada recipe, brings vibrant flavors into your kitchen. It’s a fun way to make a family-friendly meal that’s both comforting and full of Mexican flair. You can choose from many fillings and toppings to make your enchiladas just right.

Choosing a classic red sauce or trying new fillings is key to making great enchiladas. With a bit of practice and attention to detail, you’ll soon be making delicious homemade enchiladas. This will make your Mexican-inspired meals a hit with everyone.

Exploring homemade Mexican food is a rewarding journey. It’s not just about the food, but also the flavors, techniques, and culture behind it. Let your creativity shine as you cook up a storm. Bon appétit!

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in traditional enchiladas?

Traditional enchiladas need corn tortillas, dried chiles like guajillo and ancho, and garlic. You also need Mexican oregano, salt, and pepper. Shredded meat like chicken, beef, or pork is essential. Queso fresco, white onion, and vegetable oil are must-haves too. You can add sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions for extra flavor.

What equipment is needed to make enchiladas?

You’ll need a comal or griddle for toasting peppers and a blender for the sauce. A large skillet is needed for frying tortillas, and a baking dish for cooking. You might also use a food processor, strainer, and microwave for warming tortillas.

How long does it take to make enchiladas?

Making enchiladas takes 45 minutes. You’ll spend 35 minutes preparing and 10 minutes cooking. The dish is ready for the oven in about 35 minutes and serves 6 people.

What are some common fillings for enchiladas?

Shredded chicken, beef, or pork are common fillings. Vegetarians can choose beans, cheese, or sautéed veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. Cheese-only enchiladas are also a hit.

What types of cheese are typically used in enchiladas?

Queso fresco and cotija are traditional Mexican cheeses for enchiladas. For ease, pre-shredded Mexican-blend cheese is often used too.

How should enchiladas be assembled and baked?

Place filling in the center of each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How can leftover enchiladas be stored and reheated?

Store leftover enchiladas in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, cool completely and store in airtight containers or wrap in aluminum foil. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding extra sauce if needed.