Spam Enchiladas
Creamy, cheesy Spam enchiladas with savory olives and onions, wrapped in softened tortillas and baked with rich enchilada sauce, perfect for a hearty Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix grated Spam, grated cheddar cheese, chopped ripe olives, and chopped onions well, reserving 1 to 2 cups of cheese for topping.
- Heat 2 cans of enchilada sauce in a frying pan.
- Separate tortillas and drop them into the hot enchilada sauce for a second or two to soften enough to roll.
- Place a softened tortilla on a cookie sheet with sides, put 2 tablespoons of meat mixture on each tortilla, and roll it up.
- Push the rolled tortillas to the back of the pan.
- Repeat until all of the meat mixture is used.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the top generously with the reserved grated cheese.
- Bake at 375°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using turkey or chicken Spam instead of regular Spam for a lighter option. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor. If you have leftovers, adding some black beans to the filling can enhance the dish. Ensure to warm the tortillas adequately; this prevents tearing during the rolling process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spam enchiladas with a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or diced avocado on top. They pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. For a fun twist, try them alongside Mexican Tailgate Hors D'Oeuvres for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the enchiladas in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spam Enchiladas contains roughly 655 calories, with 22g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 861mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare Spam enchiladas in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead. Just cover them tightly with foil and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as instructed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re hot throughout.
What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?
If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can use taco sauce or even a homemade sauce made from blended tomatoes, chili powder, and spices. Adjust the seasoning to your taste for the best results. This versatility allows you to cater the dish to your flavor preferences.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace Spam with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or use canned beans for a protein boost. Additionally, ensure to choose a vegetarian cheese option to keep the dish meat-free while still being delicious.
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).