Enchiladas

Cheese Enchiladas

Name: Cheese Enchiladas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 large poblano peppers; 1 cup (115g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup (55g) Cheddar cheese, shredded; 8-10 corn tortillas; 2 cups (475ml) tomato sauce; 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper

By Marisol Vega · June 18, 2026 · Enchiladas

Prep30 min

Cook25 min

Total55 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I tasted my mother's cheese enchiladas. The combination of the tender tortillas, the creamy cheese, and the rich tomato sauce was like a party in my mouth. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the effort and love that went into making this dish. My mother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully preparing each ingredient, and assembling the enchiladas with precision and care.

Today, I want to share this recipe with you, so you can experience the same joy and satisfaction that I do when I make it. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Mexican food, and wants to try something new and exciting. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, you'll find that this recipe is easy to follow, and the results are well worth the effort.

One of the things that makes this recipe special is the use of roasted poblano peppers. These peppers have a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and tomato sauce. To roast the peppers, simply place them on a baking sheet, and bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.

Another key ingredient in this recipe is the cheese. I use a combination of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese, which provides a nice balance of flavor and texture. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Queso Fresco or Oaxaca cheese, if you prefer.

In addition to the peppers and cheese, this recipe also includes a rich tomato sauce, made with fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. This sauce is the foundation of the dish, and it's what gives the enchiladas their flavor and moisture. To make the sauce, simply sauté the onions and garlic in a little bit of oil, then add the tomatoes and spices, and simmer the mixture until it's thick and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The cheese enchiladas are a great source of protein and can be served as a main dish.
The recipe is family-friendly and can be made in large quantities.
The cheese enchiladas are a budget-friendly option for a weeknight dinner.
The recipe can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.
The cheese enchiladas are a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for parties and gatherings.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great cheese enchiladas is to use high-quality ingredients, and to cook them with care and attention. The roasted poblano peppers add a deep, rich flavor to the dish, while the cheese provides a creamy, melty texture. The tomato sauce is the foundation of the dish, and it's what gives the enchiladas their flavor and moisture.

Another important factor is the temperature and cooking time. The enchiladas need to be cooked at a moderate temperature, so that the cheese melts and the tortillas are tender, but not too hot, so that the filling doesn't get too dry. I recommend cooking the enchiladas at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they're golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Finally, it's also important to use the right type of tortillas. I recommend using corn tortillas, which are more pliable and easier to roll than flour tortillas. You can also use whole wheat tortillas, if you prefer a nuttier flavor.

By following these tips, and using high-quality ingredients, you'll be able to make delicious cheese enchiladas that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of Mexico!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including roasted poblano peppers, cheese, tortillas, and tomato sauce. You can find these ingredients at most grocery stores, or you can substitute them with similar ingredients if you prefer.

When shopping for the ingredients, be sure to choose fresh, high-quality items. The peppers should be firm and green, with no signs of wrinkling or soft spots. The cheese should be creamy and white, with a mild flavor. The tortillas should be pliable and easy to roll, with no cracks or tears.

4 large poblano peppersRoasted poblano peppers have a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and tomato sauce. To roast the peppers, simply place them on a baking sheet, and bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.
1 cup (115g) Monterey Jack cheese, shreddedMonterey Jack cheese has a mild flavor and a creamy texture that works well in this recipe. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Cheddar or Queso Fresco, if you prefer.
1/2 cup (55g) Cheddar cheese, shreddedCheddar cheese has a sharp flavor that complements the mild flavor of the Monterey Jack cheese. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Pepper Jack or Colby, if you prefer.
8-10 corn tortillasCorn tortillas are more pliable and easier to roll than flour tortillas. You can also use whole wheat tortillas, if you prefer a nuttier flavor.
2 cups (475ml) tomato sauceTomato sauce is the foundation of this recipe, and it's what gives the enchiladas their flavor and moisture. You can make your own tomato sauce using fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, or you can use store-bought sauce if you prefer.
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilOlive oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic, and to brush the tortillas before rolling them. You can also use other types of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, if you prefer.
1 small onion, dicedThe onion adds a sweet, caramelized flavor to the tomato sauce. You can also use shallots or scallions, if you prefer.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic has a pungent flavor that complements the sweetness of the onion. You can also use shallots or scallions, if you prefer.
1 tsp (5g) ground cuminCumin has a warm, earthy flavor that pairs well with the cheese and tomato sauce. You can also use other spices, such as paprika or chili powder, if you prefer.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt enhances the flavor of the other ingredients, and helps to bring out the sweetness of the tomato sauce. You can also use other seasonings, such as pepper or oregano, if you prefer.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a sharp, pungent flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomato sauce. You can also use other seasonings, such as cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, if you prefer.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large baking sheetOvenSkilletSaucepanTortilla rollerCheese graterMeasuring cups and spoons

How to Make Cheese Enchiladas

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet, and roast them in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.
2
Remove the peppers from the oven, and let them cool down. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
3
In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp (30ml) of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, and cook until it's translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
4
Add the minced garlic, and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5
Add the chopped poblano peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet, and stir to combine. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
6
In a large saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, and the skillet mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.
7
While the sauce is cooking, prepare the tortillas. Brush both sides of each tortilla with a little bit of olive oil, and warm them up by wrapping them in a damp paper towel, and microwaving for about 20-30 seconds.
8
To assemble the enchiladas, lay a tortilla flat, and spoon some of the sauce down the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle some of the shredded cheese on top of the sauce, and roll the tortilla up tightly.
9
Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in a baking dish, and repeat with the remaining tortillas and sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas, and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
10
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake the enchiladas in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11
Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
12
Remove the enchiladas from the oven, and let them cool down for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Expert Tips

To prevent the tortillas from tearing, make sure to warm them up before rolling them.
Use a high-quality tomato sauce that is made with fresh ingredients, and has a rich, intense flavor.
Don't overfill the tortillas with sauce and cheese, as this can make them difficult to roll and can lead to a messy dish.
To add some extra flavor to the dish, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro or scallions on top of the enchiladas before baking.
If you want to make the dish more substantial, you can add some cooked chicken, beef, or beans to the sauce before assembling the enchiladas.
To make the dish more spicy, you can add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the sauce before assembling the enchiladas.
To make the dish more mild, you can omit the seeds and membranes from the poblano peppers, which will reduce the heat of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not warming up the tortillas before rolling them, which can cause them to tear and become difficult to work with.
Overfilling the tortillas with sauce and cheese, which can make them difficult to roll and can lead to a messy dish.
Not using a high-quality tomato sauce, which can result in a bland and unflavorful dish.
Not cooking the sauce long enough, which can result in a thin and watery sauce.
Not letting the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving, which can cause the cheese to be runny and the tortillas to be soggy.
Not using the right type of cheese, which can result in a dish that is too mild or too strong.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding some diced chicken or beef to the sauce before assembling the enchiladas, which can make the dish more substantial and filling.
Using different types of cheese, such as Queso Fresco or Oaxaca cheese, which can add a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Adding some chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, to the sauce before assembling the enchiladas, which can add a bright and fresh flavor to the dish.
Using different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or corn tortillas, which can add a nutty flavor and a denser texture to the dish.
Adding some diced onions or bell peppers to the sauce before assembling the enchiladas, which can add a sweet and crunchy texture to the dish.
Using a spicy tomato sauce, which can add a bold and spicy flavor to the dish.
Adding some sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce before assembling the enchiladas, which can add a tangy and creamy texture to the dish.

What to Serve With Cheese Enchiladas

Cheese enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying dish that can be served at any time of day. They're perfect for a weeknight dinner, and can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.

To serve, simply reheat the enchiladas in the oven or microwave, and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, and avocado. You can also serve the enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a salad for a more filling meal.

Serve with a side of Mexican rice and beansTop with sour cream, salsa, and avocadoAdd some diced onions or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavorUse different types of cheese, such as Queso Fresco or Oaxaca cheeseAdd some cooked chicken or beef to the sauce for extra proteinServe with a salad or other vegetables for a more filling meal

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Cheese enchiladas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, simply place the enchiladas in an airtight container, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to eat.

To reheat, simply place the enchiladas in the oven or microwave, and cook until hot and bubbly. You can also add some extra cheese or sauce to the top of the enchiladas before reheating, which can help to keep them moist and flavorful.

It's also a good idea to label and date the container, so you can keep track of how long the enchiladas have been stored. This can help to ensure that the enchiladas are fresh and safe to eat, and can also help to prevent food waste.

In addition to refrigerating or freezing the enchiladas, you can also make them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to bake. This can be a great way to save time during the week, and can also help to ensure that you have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheese is best for cheese enchiladas?

The best type of cheese for cheese enchiladas is a combination of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese. This combination provides a nice balance of flavor and texture, and can help to create a creamy and melted cheese sauce.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

While flour tortillas can be used in place of corn tortillas, they may not provide the same texture and flavor as corn tortillas. Corn tortillas are more pliable and easier to roll, and can help to create a more authentic and traditional cheese enchilada dish.

How do I prevent the tortillas from tearing?

To prevent the tortillas from tearing, make sure to warm them up before rolling them. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel, and microwaving for about 20-30 seconds. This can help to make the tortillas more pliable and easier to work with.

Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the sauce to create a more unique and flavorful dish. Some options might include diced onions or bell peppers, chopped fresh herbs, or cooked chicken or beef. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sauce and cheese accordingly, to ensure that the dish is well balanced and flavorful.

How do I reheat the enchiladas?

To reheat the enchiladas, simply place them in the oven or microwave, and cook until hot and bubbly. You can also add some extra cheese or sauce to the top of the enchiladas before reheating, which can help to keep them moist and flavorful.

Can I make the enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to bake. This can be a great way to save time during the week, and can also help to ensure that you have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go.

How do I store the enchiladas?

To store the enchiladas, simply place them in an airtight container, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to eat. Be sure to label and date the container, so you can keep track of how long the enchiladas have been stored.

Can I freeze the enchiladas?

Yes, you can freeze the enchiladas for up to 2 months. To freeze, simply place the enchiladas in an airtight container, and freeze until ready to eat. When you're ready to eat the enchiladas, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or reheat them in the oven or microwave.

The Full Recipe

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