If you are craving a comforting, hearty, and absolutely flavorful meal that comes together easily, then this Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe is the one to try. It combines creamy refried beans, melted cheese, and a vibrant enchilada sauce wrapped in warm corn tortillas, delivering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends with a crowd-pleaser, these enchiladas bring warmth and joy to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe lies in its simplicity and the bold impact of each ingredient. Every element plays a crucial role, from the soft corn tortillas that hold everything together to the spicy, seasoned beans that add depth, and of course, the gooey cheese that makes every bite irresistible.
- 8 corn tortillas: These are the perfect vessel—soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without breaking apart.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend): Adds creamy, melty richness that complements the beans perfectly.
- 1 (15 oz) can refried beans: The star of the filling, bringing savory, smooth texture and hearty flavor.
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce: This sauce brings a smoky, tangy punch that ties the whole dish together beautifully.
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional): For a subtle crunch and mild sweetness that brightens the bean mixture.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A simple seasoning kick that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin: Brings a warm, earthy note essential for authentic Mexican-inspired dishes.
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder: Adds just the right amount of smoky heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): A burst of freshness and color that finishes the dish beautifully.
- Sour cream or avocado (optional, for serving): Creamy toppings that add cooling contrast and elevate every forkful.
How to Make Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s the perfect temperature when your enchiladas are ready to bake, giving you that lovely golden finish on top.
Step 2: Prepare the Bean Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the refried beans with garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add diced onions if you’re using them, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. This seasoned bean mixture is what brings a delightful punch to your enchiladas.
Step 3: Soften the Tortillas
To make sure your corn tortillas don’t crack when you roll them, warm them wrapped in a damp towel in the microwave for about 30 to 40 seconds. This softens them and makes rolling much easier.
Step 4: Fill and Roll the Tortillas
Spread around 2 tablespoons of the bean mixture in the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese over the beans. Carefully roll each tortilla up tightly so the filling stays intact during baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Pour a few spoonfuls of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor from the start.
Step 6: Arrange and Cover with Sauce and Cheese
Place each rolled tortilla seam side down into the dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over all the enchiladas, then sprinkle generously with the rest of the cheese for that irresistible cheesy crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Your kitchen will start filling with a mouthwatering aroma!
How to Serve Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped cilantro sprinkled on top adds a vibrant, herbaceous note and a splash of green that makes the dish pop. Serving with a dollop of sour cream or creamy avocado not only cools down the spice but also adds a luscious texture balance.
Side Dishes
Bean and Cheese Enchiladas go beautifully with a simple side of Mexican rice or a crisp green salad, providing freshness to balance the richness. You can also add some sliced jalapeños if you love extra heat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the enchiladas in individual ramekins topped with the sauce and cheese for a personalized meal. Or stack a few on a colorful platter with layered garnishes for a festive presentation that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Bean and Cheese Enchiladas keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the tortillas from drying out.
Freezing
This recipe also freezes well! Freeze the enchiladas before baking by sealing tightly in a freezer-safe container or baking dish covered with foil. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, ready for a quick meal whenever you want.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen, then cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes. This ensures they heat evenly without drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, just watch the time to avoid rubbery textures.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas will work just fine and provide a softer texture, but traditional corn tortillas add authentic flavor and a bit more structure for this recipe.
What if I want to add protein?
You can easily add cooked chicken, ground beef, or even sautéed veggies to the bean mixture for a more filling version. Just be mindful not to overload the tortillas to avoid tearing.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe has a gentle heat from the chili powder and enchilada sauce, which can be adjusted to your taste. Add extra chili or hot sauce if you like it spicier!
Can I make it vegan?
To make the dish vegan, substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegan refried beans. Many stores carry excellent dairy-free cheese blends that melt beautifully.
How do I prevent the tortillas from drying out?
Warming the tortillas wrapped in a damp towel helps keep them pliable. Also, making sure you cover the baking dish with foil during the initial bake seals in moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its simplicity, combined with rich flavors and comforting textures, makes it a fast favorite in any home kitchen. I hope you’ll try making it soon and watch how it becomes your go-to for delicious, easy Mexican-inspired dinners!
