If you are craving a warm, comforting dish that brings cheesy goodness and bold flavors to your dinner table, this Cheese Enchiladas Recipe is exactly what you need. With a simple blend of gooey shredded cheese, tender flour tortillas, and rich enchilada sauce, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that feels both homey and a little bit special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to whip something quick and satisfying, these cheese enchiladas deliver layers of melty, savory delight with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients is the first step to making outstanding cheese enchiladas that everyone will beg you to make again. Fortunately, the list is straightforward and each item plays a crucial role in bringing that perfect creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy balance to the dish.
- Enchilada Sauce: About 1¼ cups of your favorite enchilada sauce forms the flavorful, saucy base that coats every cheesy bite.
- Shredded Cheese (5 cups): Use a blend like Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Colby Jack for the ideal melt and taste.
- Flour Tortillas (8 of 8-inch size): These wrap up the cheese filling perfectly and get nice and crisp when baked.
- Heavy Whipping Cream (optional ½ cup): Add this for an ultra-rich, creamy twist that takes the sauce to the next level.
How to Make Cheese Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 baking dish. Spreading a quarter cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom not only prevents sticking but also ensures every enchilada gets a nice saucy base to soften perfectly as it bakes.
Step 2: Fill and Roll the Tortillas
Lay out each tortilla and pile about ⅓ to ½ cup of freshly shredded cheese right in the center. Fold the tortillas carefully over the cheese so they form neat little wraps. Placing the rolled tortillas snugly into the baking dish keeps them cozy and ready to soak up all those delicious flavors as they bake.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese on Top
Generously ladle the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle a hefty amount of shredded cheese on top. For those who want a creamier, more indulgent dish, stirring half a cup of heavy whipping cream into the sauce before pouring it over the enchiladas is a game-changer.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Melty
Pop the dish into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and the tortillas show a slight crisp and golden brown spots. This baking time is just right to meld everything together beautifully.
How to Serve Cheese Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes brighten up the rich, cheesy enchiladas with color and added texture. Think chopped cilantro, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top just before serving adds a zesty punch that complements the cheesy richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your cheese enchiladas with sides that create an inviting meal atmosphere. Mexican rice with its subtle tomato and garlic notes, refried or black beans for hearty protein, and a crisp green salad can round out the flavors and textures on your plate beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix it up a bit, try layering the cheese enchiladas in smaller individual ramekins for a charming single-serving presentation or roll the tortillas tighter to create bite-sized enchilada roll-ups perfect for casual parties or appetizers. Adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cotija cheese can also bring a fun twist to your presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked and cooled, store leftover cheese enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes for an easy, flavorful meal to reheat during busy weekdays when you want that comfort food vibe without the fuss of cooking fresh.
Freezing
This Cheese Enchiladas Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap tightly in foil and place the enchiladas in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you want a quick dinner, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To bring leftover or frozen enchiladas back to life, reheat them in an oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melty again—about 15-20 minutes. Using the oven keeps the tortillas crispier than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Traditional enchiladas are often made with corn tortillas, and they do add their own distinct flavor. Just make sure to warm them first so they don’t crack when rolling.
What kinds of cheese work best for this recipe?
A blend of Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Colby Jack gives the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. Freshly shredding the cheese ensures a smoother melt and creamier texture.
Is it necessary to add heavy cream?
Nope! The heavy cream is optional for added creaminess, but even without it, the enchiladas come out delicious and satisfyingly cheesy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas, preferably yellow corn as they are sturdier, and make sure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.
How spicy is the dish?
The spice level depends on the enchilada sauce you choose. If you want a milder dish, go for a mild sauce; for a kick, try something with a bit of heat like a Chipotle or green chile enchilada sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Enchiladas Recipe is truly one of those heartwarming meals that’s easy to make yet feels like a celebration on your plate. Whether you’re feeding a family, impressing friends, or treating yourself to a cozy night in, these enchiladas deliver comforting, cheesy joy every time. Give this recipe a try and see how quickly it becomes your go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Print
Cheese Enchiladas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 enchiladas (serves 4-6)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make cheese enchiladas featuring a flavorful enchilada sauce, a melty blend of cheeses, and soft flour tortillas baked to perfection. This classic Mexican-inspired dish is perfect for a comforting family meal with optional heavy cream for extra richness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1¼ cups enchilada sauce
- 5 cups cheese, freshly shredded (Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Colby Jack)
- 8 8″ flour tortillas
Optional
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the enchiladas.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Spread 1/4 cup of the enchilada sauce evenly on the bottom of the dish to create a flavorful base.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Place about 5 to 6 tablespoons of shredded cheese in the center of each tortilla. Fold the tortilla over the filling and tightly wrap it. Arrange each folded enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Generously pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the assembled tortillas, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top. For extra creaminess, optionally mix the heavy whipping cream into the enchilada sauce before pouring it over the enchiladas.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the tortillas have slightly crisped and browned around the edges.
Notes
- Substitute enchilada sauce with green chile sauce for a different flavor.
- Use flour or corn tortillas; corn tortillas make this dish gluten free.
- Freshly shred cheese for the best melting texture.
- Optionally fry tortillas in a tablespoon of oil until bubbly before assembling for added texture.
- Dip each tortilla in enchilada sauce before filling for extra sauciness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
