Introduction to Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
If you're on the lookout for a satisfying and flavorful homemade meal, look no further than Bean and Cheese Enchiladas. These delicious enchiladas are not only easy to prepare but are also versatile enough to accommodate various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or simply feeding a group of hungry family members, enchiladas are a surefire hit!
Why Bean and Cheese Enchiladas are the Perfect Homemade Meal?
The simplicity of Bean and Cheese Enchiladas makes them a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner. You can whip them up in under an hour, making them perfect for busy professionals and students alike. The heartiness of refried beans combined with gooey cheese creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Plus, with customizable toppings and sauces, you can easily ramp up the flavor to suit your mood.
Don't overlook the health benefits, either! Beans provide a rich source of protein and fiber, making these enchiladas a more nutritious alternative to many other meal options. For those looking to enhance flavors, consider exploring homemade enchilada sauce, which can elevate your dish to a whole new level. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into the delightful world of Bean and Cheese Enchiladas!
Essential Ingredients for the Enchiladas
Creating delicious Bean and Cheese Enchiladas starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect homemade enchiladas:
- Refried beans: One 15-ounce can offers a creamy texture that binds everything together.
- Diced green chiles: A 4-ounce can adds a mild kick—feel free to swap this with salsa if you prefer.
- Corn tortillas: 8-10 six-inch tortillas are optimal; they're slightly crispy and enhance the overall flavor.
- Cheese: An 8-ounce block of your choice, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack, which melts beautifully.
- Fresh cilantro: About ⅓ cup chopped brings a bright freshness.
- Sour cream and lime juice: For topping, add about ¼ cup sour cream and 1 to 2 teaspoons of lime juice for zest.
Ingredients for the Enchilada Sauce
No enchilada is complete without a rich sauce! Here’s what you’ll need to make a simple yet flavorful enchilada sauce:
- Oil: 3 tablespoons for sautéing.
- All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons to thicken the sauce.
- Spices: 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and cinnamon to elevate the flavor.
- Tomato sauce: A 15-ounce can forms the base of the sauce.
- Water or vegetable broth: 1.5 cups to help achieve the right consistency.
For a homemade sauce that complements your Bean and Cheese Enchiladas, check out more details here. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—just gather these ingredients and get ready to impress!
Step-by-step Preparation of Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Making Bean and Cheese Enchiladas at home can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these easy steps. Let’s dive in!
Making the Enchilada Sauce
Start by creating a rich and flavorful enchilada sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons of oil and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk these together until smooth, then stir in 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of cinnamon. Toast this mixture for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, pour in 1 can of tomato sauce and 1.5 cups of water or vegetable broth. Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, whisking often until it thickens. Pour a thin layer of this sauce into a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish to coat the bottom, and set the rest aside.
Preparing the Bean Filling
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Now, warm up 1 can of refried beans together with 1 can of diced green chilies in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until warmed through and combined. This mixture will provide the creamy base for your enchiladas, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Frying the Tortillas
To fry the tortillas, heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. You want just enough oil to create a thin layer in the pan. Fry each tortilla for about 2 minutes per side until they are soft but not crispy. Right after frying, dip each tortilla into the prepared enchilada sauce to lightly coat them. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the bean filling on each tortilla, top with a sprinkle of cheese, and roll them up tightly. Place them seam-side down in your prepared casserole dish.
Rolling and Assembling the Enchiladas
Repeat the frying, dipping, and filling for each tortilla. It can be helpful to set up an assembly line: one spot for frying, another for dipping, and a third for filling and rolling. Don’t worry if you have a little filling left over; it can be spread on top before baking!
Baking the Enchiladas to Perfection
Once all your enchiladas are lined up neatly in the dish, cover them with the remaining enchilada sauce and sprinkle the rest of your cheese on top. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Creating the Creamy Topping
While the enchiladas bake, whisk together ¼ cup of sour cream, 1-2 teaspoons of lime juice, and ¼ teaspoon of chili powder or chipotle powder in a small bowl. Taste it and adjust with more lime or seasoning if desired. When the enchiladas are ready, drizzle this luscious topping over them and finish with a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro.
Enjoy your homemade Bean and Cheese Enchiladas hot, and don’t forget to share the joy with friends! They’ll love how simple and delicious this dish is. For more cooking tips and delicious recipes, check out Delish Knowledge for all things culinary.
Variations on Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Spicy Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
If you love a kick in your bean and cheese enchiladas, try adding some jalapeños or a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce to the bean mixture. You can also experiment with spicy cheese like pepper jack for an extra layer of heat. For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, why not blend in some cooked chorizo with the beans? This addition creates a robust flavor profile that's sure to impress your friends and family!
Veggie-Packed Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Looking to sneak in more vegetables? Fill your enchiladas with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach! You can also swap in black beans for a change of pace. Not only do these additions enhance the nutrition, but they also add vibrant colors to your dish. Consider pairing this veggie-rich stuffing with a homemade enchilada sauce for a delicious twist that's both wholesome and hearty.
Feel free to explore these variations to make your enchiladas uniquely yours!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Tips for Frying Tortillas Perfectly
To achieve perfectly fried tortillas for your Bean and Cheese Enchiladas, use just enough vegetable oil to cover the skillet's bottom. Heat it to medium and fry each tortilla for about 2 minutes per side. This method keeps them pliable for easy rolling. An assembly line setup—tortilla frying, dipping into sauce, then filling—makes the process smoother.
Suggestions for Meal Prep and Storage
Meal prepping is a breeze with these enchiladas! Assemble them ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months. Just make sure they're well-sealed to avoid freezer burn. For more tips on meal prep, check out Delish Knowledge.
Serving Suggestions for Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
When it comes to enjoying your Bean and Cheese Enchiladas, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
Accompaniments that Enhance the Meal
- Salsa Fresca: A fresh pico de gallo adds a zesty crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
- Guacamole: This rich avocado dip provides an indulgent contrast to the enchiladas.
- Pickled Jalapeños: If you like a bit of heat, these tangy bites will spice things up!
Perfect Side Dishes to Pair with Enchiladas
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy and seasoned rice pairs wonderfully as a hearty side. Check out this Mexican rice recipe for a delightful addition.
- Refried Black Beans: A protein-rich option that rounds out your meal.
- Corn Salad: Refreshing and sweet, this side salad adds color and nutrition.
With these accompaniments, your Bean and Cheese Enchiladas will be a vibrant and satisfying feast!
Time Breakdown for Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Preparation time
Creating those delicious Bean and Cheese Enchiladas takes about 25 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and preparing both the filling and sauce.
Cooking time
Bake those enchiladas to perfection in just 15 minutes. This step is crucial for melting the cheese and bringing all those flavors together.
Total time
In total, you’ll be enjoying your mouthwatering Bean and Cheese Enchiladas in about 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
For more details on making the enchilada sauce, check out this homemade enchilada sauce recipe. It’s a game changer!
Nutritional Facts for Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Calories per serving
Each serving of these Bean and Cheese Enchiladas contains approximately 496 calories. It's a hearty meal that can satisfy your cravings without derailing your healthy eating goals.
Nutritional highlights
These enchiladas are packed with nutrients, providing:
- Protein: 18g, which helps in muscle building and repair.
- Fat: 35g, with a good mix of saturated and unsaturated fats for energy.
- Fiber: 4g, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer.
Enjoy the benefits of these wholesome ingredients as you dig into this delicious dish! For more insights on nutrition, check out the USDA's food database for comprehensive details.
FAQs about Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?
Absolutely! Bean and cheese enchiladas are inherently vegetarian thanks to their main ingredients: refried beans and cheese. You can enhance the filling with other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach if you want to add extra flavor and nutrition.
What can I substitute for cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using plant-based cheeses available in stores, which melt beautifully. Nutritional yeast is another great alternative, giving a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Don't forget to check out resources like Plant-Based News for more options.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any delicious bean and cheese enchiladas left, pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze them before baking; just be sure to let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking! Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
Conclusion on Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
In conclusion, Bean and Cheese Enchiladas are a delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal packed with flavor. With easy-to-follow steps, you can create a satisfying dish that will impress friends and family alike. Don't forget to experiment with toppings and sauces to make the recipe your own!
Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Equipment
- skillet
- Medium saucepan
- 9 x 13 inch casserole dish
- whisk
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 can refried beans 15 ounce can
- 1 can diced green chilis 4 ounce can
- 8-10 6-inch corn tortillas
- to taste tablespoon vegetable oil for frying the tortillas
- 8 ounce cheese block of cheddar, monterey jack, colby jack, pepperjack, or a blend
- ⅓ cup cilantro finely chopped
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1-2 teaspoons lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder or chipotle powder
Enchilada Sauce
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 can tomato sauce 15 ounce can
- 1.5 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions
Make the Enchilada Sauce
- Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add in the flour, then quickly whisk together until combined. Add in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper, and toast until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add in the tomatoes and water, then bring to a simmer. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5-7 minutes, whisking often.
- Season to taste, adding more salt as desired.
- Place a thin layer of sauce into a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish and set aside.
Make the Bean Filling
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- Warm the refried beans and green chilis in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through. The mixture will be thick.
Fry the Tortillas
- Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, just enough to create a thin layer of oil on the bottom.
- Add one tortilla at a time and fry for 2 minutes or so per side. Right away, dip the tortilla into the enchilada sauce to lightly coat, then spread on some of the bean filling (about 2 tablespoons) and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Roll up and place seam side down into the prepared pan with the enchilada sauce.
- Repeat with the rest of the tortillas.
Cover and Bake
- Once you've filled all of your tortillas, then cover the rolled enchiladas with the rest of the enchilada sauce and cover with the remaining cheese.
- Place the enchiladas in the preheated oven and cook for 15 minutes, until hot, bubbly and the cheese is melted.
Make the Creme Topping
- While the enchiladas are baking, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder or chipotle powder. Taste, adding more lime/chili powder or even a pinch of salt as desired.
- When the enchiladas are done baking, drizzle with the creme topping and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.
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