Deliciously Spicy Enchilada Recipe You Need to Try

Enchiladas are a cherished part of Mexican cuisine, known for their robust flavors and satisfying textures. If you crave spicy food, this enchilada recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With bold tastes and a perfect kick of heat, these enchiladas are ideal for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering. Let’s jump right into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering dish!

A delicious plate of spicy enchiladas garnished with fresh cilantro

Ingredients

To make these spicy enchiladas, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Enchiladas:

- 12 corn tortillas

- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or beef)

- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

- 1 cup diced onions

- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon chili powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Toppings:

- Fresh cilantro, chopped

- Sliced jalapeños (optional)

- Sour cream (optional)

- Avocado slices (optional)

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to start cooking!

Preparing the Filling

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.

Next, mix in the cooked shredded chicken (or beef), diced tomatoes with green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. For a spicier kick, consider using a spicy tomato blend or salsa. Once the filling is done, take it off the heat and set it aside.

Assembling the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

To assemble the enchiladas, take a corn tortilla and dip it briefly in the enchilada sauce to soften it. Place a generous spoonful of the filling at the center of the tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and then roll it up tightly. Make sure to place the seam side down in a greased baking dish.

Repeat this process for all tortillas. You can fit about 12 enchiladas in a typical 9x13 inch baking dish.

A baking dish filled with rolled enchiladas topped with sauce and cheese

Baking the Enchiladas

After all the enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, making sure they are well-coated. Add the remaining cheese on top for that gooey, melty finish.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Once that time is up, take off the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and turns a golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Once the enchiladas are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Top them with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, a dollop of sour cream, or creamy avocado slices if desired.

These enchiladas work perfectly with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh garden salad, creating a fulfilling and delightful meal.

Tips for the Perfect Enchiladas

• Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the spice by choosing milder or hotter enchilada sauces, or by adding more or fewer jalapeños.

• Make Ahead to Save Time: You can prepare the filling and assemble the enchiladas a day prior. Simply cover and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.

• Mix and Match Fillings: For a twist, try adding black beans, corn, or various veggies like bell peppers to your filling.

• Storage for Leftovers: These enchiladas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.

  
  

Final Tasty Thoughts

This deliciously spicy enchilada recipe is simple to make and bursting with flavors that your taste buds will love. Whether for a dinner party or a comforting meal at home, these enchiladas will leave a lasting impression.

So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every bite of this spicy goodness! Happy cooking!