Enchiladas are a beloved Mexican dish that combines tender tortillas, savory fillings, rich sauce, and melted cheese—all baked to perfection in the oven. If you’ve ever wondered how to make enchiladas in the oven, you’re in the right place! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process with easy-to-follow tips to create a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
What You’ll Need to Make Oven-Baked Enchiladas
Before we dive into the steps, here’s a quick rundown of the basic ingredients and equipment:
– Tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas both work well, but warming or lightly frying them helps prevent sogginess.
– Filling: Common fillings include shredded chicken, ground beef, beans, or a mix of veggies and cheese.
– Enchilada sauce: Red enchilada sauce is traditional, but green sauce or even a cheesy white sauce are great alternatives.
– Cheese: A blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican cheeses like Oaxaca or queso fresco.
– Baking dish: A 9×13-inch casserole dish is ideal for assembling and baking.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Enchiladas in the Oven
1. Prepare Your Filling
Start by cooking and seasoning your filling. For example, if using chicken:
– Sauté diced onions and garlic in olive oil until softened.
– Add cooked, shredded chicken along with spices like cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
– Stir in a bit of enchilada sauce to keep the filling moist and flavorful.
You can also use ground beef, beans, or roasted vegetables depending on your preference.
2. Warm Your Tortillas
To make the tortillas pliable and prevent tearing when rolling, warm them in the microwave for about 1 minute, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, lightly fry each tortilla in oil for 5-10 seconds per side, then drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas
– Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.
– Place a warm tortilla on a flat surface.
– Spoon a generous amount of filling down the center.
– Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the filling.
– Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
– Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Add Sauce and Cheese on Top
Once all enchiladas are lined up in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over them. Then, sprinkle the top with the rest of your shredded cheese. This creates a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes.
5. Bake the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the enchiladas uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned. For a crispier top, you can increase the temperature to 375°F and bake for 15-20 minutes.
6. Let Them Rest and Serve
After baking, let the enchiladas stand for 5 minutes to set. This makes them easier to serve and lets the flavors meld beautifully. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream to elevate your dish.
Tips and Variations for Perfect Oven-Baked Enchiladas
– Sauce choices: Try red chili sauce, salsa verde, or a creamy white cheese sauce for different flavor profiles.
– Fillings: Use leftover meats like carnitas, barbacoa, or even vegetarian options like black beans and sautéed veggies.
– Cheese: Mix different cheeses for a richer taste—cheddar, Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or cotija are all excellent choices.
– Tortilla prep: Frying tortillas briefly before filling helps prevent sogginess and adds a nice texture.
– Add-ins: Include beans, corn, or chopped spinach in your filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
Why Oven-Baked Enchiladas Are a Great Choice
Baking enchiladas in the oven is a simple way to bring all the flavors together while melting the cheese perfectly and softening the tortillas just right. It’s also a hands-off cooking method that lets you prepare ahead and pop the dish in the oven when you’re ready. Plus, it’s a fantastic meal for feeding a family or a group of friends with minimal fuss.
Enchiladas are a delicious, comforting meal that’s surprisingly easy to make in the oven. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a flavorful Mexican feast anytime. Gather your favorite fillings, sauce, and cheese, and get ready to bake your way to enchilada perfection!