Enchilatos
Enchilatos are hearty Mexican-inspired baked tortillas filled with seasoned meat, topped with chili sauce and cheese, perfect for a comforting and flavorful family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground meat with bell pepper and onion; season to taste.
- Heat chili with a little water to blend.
- Roll the cooked meat inside tortillas and place them side by side in a baking dish.
- Pour chili sauce over the assembled tortillas.
- Spread shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful boost, try adding cumin and garlic powder while browning the meat. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with black beans or lentils. You can also use different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a kick or Monterey Jack for creaminess. Consider using corn tortillas for a more authentic texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these enchilatos with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. A fresh salad or guacamole can add a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, consider serving with salsa or sour cream on the side. They also pair beautifully with Aunt Ruthie's Chili Relleno Casserole for a hearty dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Enchilatos contains roughly 516 calories, with 25g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make enchilatos ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchilatos ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled when placed in the oven.
What can I substitute for the chili sauce?
If you don’t have chili sauce on hand, you can use enchilada sauce or even a homemade tomato-based sauce with added spices. This will give you a similar flavor profile, ensuring your enchilatos remain delicious and satisfying.
Are there any variations I can try?
Absolutely! You can customize the filling with different vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños. Also, consider exploring other cheese options or adding fresh cilantro on top after baking for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).