Smothered Enchiladas Recipe: A Flavorful Mexican Delight

Smothered enchiladas are a mouthwatering Mexican dish that combines soft tortillas, seasoned beef or chicken, melted cheese, and a rich, flavorful sauce. 

Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe guarantees an indulgent experience.

What Are Smothered Enchiladas?

Smothered enchiladas are a variation of traditional enchiladas, where the tortillas are generously stuffed with a flavorful filling, rolled up, and then covered (or "smothered") in a luscious sauce before being baked to perfection. The result? A cheesy, saucy, and utterly satisfying dish.

Ingredients for Smothered Enchiladas

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (or shredded chicken)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 cup canned black beans (optional)

• 1 cup corn kernels (optional)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Assembly:

• 8-10 small flour or corn tortillas

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

• Sliced jalapeños (optional)

• Sour cream and salsa for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.

3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

4. If using, add black beans and corn, mixing well.

5. Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the enchilada sauce.

2. Stir in sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth.

3. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.

3. Lay a tortilla flat, spoon a generous amount of the filling in the center, then roll it up tightly.

4. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish.

5. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and placed snugly in the dish.

Step 4: Smother and Bake

1. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the enchiladas, ensuring full coverage.

2. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese generously on top.

3. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.

2. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (if using).

3. Serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side.

Tips for the Best Smothered Enchiladas

• Use Fresh Tortillas: Slightly warm them before rolling to prevent cracking.

• Customize the Filling: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor.

• Make It Spicy: Use a spicier enchilada sauce or add chopped green chilies.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and skip the sour cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Smothered Enchiladas Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the enchiladas, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I Freeze Smothered Enchiladas?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up until the baking step, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

3. What’s the Best Cheese for Smothered Enchiladas?

A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend works best for a gooey, cheesy texture.

4. Can I Use a Different Protein?

Yes! Substitute the beef with shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.

5. What Side Dishes Go Well with Enchiladas?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, a fresh avocado salad, or a side of tortilla chips and guacamole.

6. Can I Make These Enchiladas with Green Sauce?

Yes! Swap out the red enchilada sauce for a green tomatillo sauce for a tangier twist.

7. Why Did My Enchiladas Turn Out Soggy?

Sogginess usually happens when using too much sauce or overstuffing the tortillas. Try lightly toasting the tortillas before filling them to prevent this.

Final Thoughts

Smothered enchiladas are a perfect combination of flavor, texture, and comfort. Whether you stick to this classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, these enchiladas are sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy, and saucy enchiladas with your favorite toppings and sides!