Cheesy Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce

Introduction

When you think of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich, savory goodness of enchiladas. Add a creamy, cheesy sauce to the mix, and you’ve got a dish that’s not only comforting but downright indulgent. Cheesy Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce are the epitome of comfort food—soft tortillas filled with your choice of savory filling, topped with a rich, velvety sauce, and then smothered in a perfect blend of melted cheese. This dish is ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or just when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

Enchiladas have their roots in Mexican cuisine, and while traditional recipes often feature tomato-based sauces, this variation uses a creamy, cheese-laden sauce that’s guaranteed to elevate the flavors. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe, one that both children and adults will devour, and it’s easy enough to prepare for a weeknight meal but also impressive enough for a special occasion.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to make these irresistible enchiladas, from the ingredients and the step-by-step directions to some helpful variations and storage tips. Whether you’re a first-time enchilada maker or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become your go-to for cheesy, creamy comfort food.

If you’re looking for more enchilada inspiration, check out similar recipes on Food Network or Bon Appétit.

Ingredients

Making Cheesy Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce requires some key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Enchiladas:

8 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas for a softer texture)
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or substitute with ground beef, pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar is best for flavor)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for a gooey, stretchy texture)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 can diced green chilies (4 oz)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a mild spice)
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups heavy cream (for a rich, velvety texture)
½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp cheddar for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

The filling is the heart of any great enchilada. Start by cooking your protein of choice, whether it’s chicken, beef, or beans. If you’re using chicken, simply cook it until it’s tender, then shred it into bite-sized pieces. This can be done in advance for a quicker prep time later.

Cook the Chicken (or other protein):
- If you haven’t cooked your chicken yet, you can either boil, bake, or pan-fry it. After it’s cooked through, shred it with a fork or chop it into small pieces.
- If you’re using ground beef or pork, brown it in a skillet over medium heat, making sure to drain excess fat.
Sauté the Onions:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until they become translucent and softened.
Add the Protein and Seasonings:
- Add the shredded chicken (or your protein) to the onions, followed by 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon chili powder. Stir to combine.
- Add 1 can diced green chilies (drained), and cook for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference.

Once the filling is done, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

This is the star of the show—the creamy sauce that will bring everything together. The richness of heavy cream and the meltiness of cheese create a luscious, indulgent sauce that’s perfect for your enchiladas.

Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning.
Make the Roux:
- Add 2 tablespoons flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the flour is lightly golden, but be careful not to let it brown.
Add the Cream and Broth:
- Slowly whisk in 1 ½ cups heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
Flavor the Sauce:
- Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as necessary.
Add the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Now, your creamy cheese sauce is ready to pour over your enchiladas.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
Warm the Tortillas:
- To prevent the tortillas from cracking, you’ll need to warm them up. Heat them briefly in a dry skillet or microwave them for about 10 seconds per side until they become soft and pliable.
Fill the Tortillas:
- Lay each tortilla flat and spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center. Add a little shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar) on top, then roll the tortilla tightly to form an enchilada.
Arrange the Enchiladas:
- Place the rolled enchiladas in the prepared baking dish, seam-side down. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and chicken filling, placing them snugly side by side.
Pour the Creamy Sauce:
- Once all the enchiladas are rolled up in the dish, pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top, making sure each enchilada is generously coated.
Add More Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese (about 1 cup) over the top of the sauce.
Bake the Enchiladas:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the sauce is slightly browned on top.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Let the Enchiladas Rest:
- After baking, let the enchiladas rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to settle, making them easier to slice and serve.
Garnish:
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. You can also serve with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for extra flavor.
Serve:
- Serve your cheesy enchiladas with rice, beans, or a simple green salad on the side. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes about 4–6 servings depending on portion size.
Prep Time: Approximately 20 minutes to prepare the ingredients.
Cook Time: About 25–30 minutes for assembling and baking.
Total Time: Roughly 50 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

While this recipe is already packed with flavor, there are many ways you can customize it to suit your tastes. Here are some popular variations:

1. Vegetarian Enchiladas

You can make a delicious vegetarian version of these enchiladas by using black beans, pinto beans, or sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Add some extra cheese and seasoning to the vegetable filling for extra flavor.

2. Beef or Pork Enchiladas

If you prefer beef or pork, swap the chicken for shredded beef, ground beef, or even pulled pork. You can cook the meat with the same seasonings as the chicken for a flavorful filling.

3. Spicy Enchiladas

For a little heat, add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the sauce or filling. You can also use spicy chili powder or hot sauce to kick up the flavor.

4. Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Enchiladas

For a gluten-free version, simply use corn tortillas and ensure your flour-based sauce is thickened with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour substitute.

Storage and Reheating

These cheesy enchiladas make great leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

1. Storage

Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
If you want to freeze them, wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 3 months.

2. Reheating

To reheat, cover the enchiladas with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through.
You can also microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes, but baking will keep the texture of the sauce and cheese better intact.

10 FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
- Yes, you can use flour tortillas, though corn tortillas are more traditional and provide a slightly firmer texture.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can make the creamy sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently before using.
Can I use something other than chicken for the filling?
- Yes, feel free to use ground beef, shredded pork, or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
- You can make this recipe gluten-free by using corn tortillas and ensuring the flour in the sauce is substituted with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make these enchiladas spicy?
- Yes! Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce to the filling or sauce for extra spice.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
- If the sauce is too thin, simply cook it for a little longer to thicken, or you can whisk in more flour to create a thicker roux.
How do I prevent the tortillas from tearing?
- To prevent tearing, warm the tortillas briefly in a hot pan or microwave before filling them. This softens them and makes them more flexible.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best cheese to use for this recipe?
- Cheddar cheese provides sharp flavor, while mozzarella adds a nice gooey texture. You can mix and match to your liking.
How can I make these enchiladas milder for kids?
- Use mild cheddar cheese and avoid adding spicy ingredients like jalapeños or chipotle. You can also use a milder sauce.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce are the perfect comfort food that brings together tender tortillas, a flavorful filling, and a rich, indulgent cheese sauce. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a hearty meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s incredibly customizable, and with the option to make it spicy, vegetarian, or meaty, you can easily tailor it to your taste preferences.