There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to the comforting aroma of beans and cheese mingling in the oven. As I pull my warm Bean and Cheese Enchiladas out, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me, reminding me of cozy family dinners and laughter shared over a vibrant table. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something spectacular.
I discovered this dish one chilly evening when I craved a hearty yet straightforward dinner. With just a handful of pantry staples—like the versatile black beans and crunchy corn tortillas—these enchiladas deliver on flavor without the fuss. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to elevate a mundane weeknight, impressing both your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to have a plate served their way.
Ready in just 35 minutes, this crowd-pleaser is perfect whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and transform your kitchen into a haven of homemade goodness!
Why You'll Love This Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
- These Bean and Cheese Enchiladas are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The flavors of the seasoned black beans and melted cheese create a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Not only are they versatile enough to accommodate various toppings and sides, but they also look beautiful when served, making your presentation shine.
- In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings, making it a true winner for any occasion.
Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Ingredients
For the Filling
• Cooked black beans – the star ingredient providing hearty protein while being budget-friendly.
• Shredded cheese – a melty, flavorful component that binds the filling together beautifully.
• Chopped onion – adds a zesty crunch that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Chopped cilantro – introduces a fresh, aromatic note that brightens up the enchiladas.
For the Tortillas
• Corn tortillas – essential for wrapping up the delicious filling, adding an authentic taste.
For the Sauce
• Enchilada sauce – the perfect spicy layer that envelops the enchiladas and enhances their flavor.
For Seasoning
• Cumin – infuses warm, earthy notes that work wonders with the black beans.
• Chili powder – delivers a mild kick that can be adjusted based on your heat preference.
How to Make Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step sets a cozy base for your enchiladas to bake, ensuring they become piping hot and wonderfully toasty.
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Combine black beans, cheese, cumin, chili powder, onion, and cilantro in a bowl. Mix well to create a flavorful filling, incorporating all those vibrant spices and textures.
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Warm the corn tortillas briefly in a microwave or skillet. This makes them pliable, so they won’t crack when you roll them around the delicious filling.
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Spoon the bean mixture into each tortilla and roll them up tightly. This step is where the magic happens—ensuring each bite is packed with flavor!
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Arrange the rolled tortillas seam side down in a baking dish. This keeps everything secure and works wonders for presentation once baked.
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Pour the enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas. This creates that luscious, saucy layer we all know and love, making each bite irresistible.
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Bake for 20 minutes, or until heated through. You’ll know they’re ready when the enchiladas are bubbling and your kitchen is filled with delicious aromas!
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Serve hot, topped with additional cheese or cilantro for a delightful finish. This adds a pop of freshness and cheese that everyone will adore!
Optional: Garnish with a dollop of sour cream for an extra creamy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Fridge: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked or cooked enchiladas wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking if frozen uncooked.
Reheating: For reheating leftovers, cover the enchiladas with foil to prevent drying out, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Airtight Storage: Ensure that the enchiladas are wrapped well to preserve freshness and prevent freezer burn, making every bite just as delightful as the first.
Make Ahead Options
These Bean and Cheese Enchiladas are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the filling—combining black beans, cheese, onion, cilantro, cumin, and chili powder—up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can assemble the enchiladas (rolled and placed in the baking dish) up to 24 hours ahead; simply cover the dish tightly with foil. When you’re ready to indulge, pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and bake them directly from the fridge, allowing an extra 5 minutes of cooking time. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, hearty enchiladas with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Bean and Cheese Enchiladas?
There’s nothing quite like crafting a complete meal that engages all your senses, leaving your loved ones satisfied and smiling.
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Crispy Mexican Coleslaw: This refreshing slaw adds a crunchy contrast, balancing the warm, cheesy enchiladas with vibrant flavors. A tangy lime dressing ties it all together beautifully.
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Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice infused with tomatoes and spices perfectly complements the rich enchiladas, soaking up the enchilada sauce for every last bite.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, this classic avocado dip brings freshness to the table, and its buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the saucy enchiladas.
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Avocado Salad: Brighten your meal with a simple salad of ripe avocados, tomatoes, and onions. Its creamy, cool elements provide a delightful counterpoint to the hot enchiladas.
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Black Bean Soup: A bowl of smokey black bean soup echoes the enchiladas’ flavors, creating an experience that’s cozy and homestyle. The depth of flavors makes for a comforting pairing.
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Margaritas: To wash it all down, a zesty margarita will add that festive touch. The citrusy notes of the drink enhance the spicy flavors of the enchiladas.
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Churros: For dessert, warm churros drizzled with chocolate are the perfect sweet finish, making the evening unforgettable with their familiar comfort.
Embrace the joy of serving these delightful additions alongside your Bean and Cheese Enchiladas!
Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful enchiladas to suit your taste!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for an exciting kick that will spice things up!
Transform the flavor profile effortlessly and enjoy the added heat that’ll keep your palate dancing. -
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the filling for a nutritious boost.
This colorful addition not only enhances texture but also brings vibrant flavors that make every bite a delight. -
Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional corn tortillas with gluten-free tortillas, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.
You’ll still achieve that crunchy exterior but with the peace of mind that it’s gluten-free for sensitive diners. -
Creamy Addition: Mix in some cream cheese or sour cream with your bean filling for an ultra-creamy texture.
This twist creates a luscious interior that elevates the whole enchilada experience—pure comfort food! -
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture.
The nutty notes complement the richness of the cheese while adding an unexpected surprise in every bite. -
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, pepper jack, or goat cheese for unique flavor profiles.
Combining cheeses can create a melty masterpiece that adds depth and complexity to your enchiladas. -
Less Heat: For a milder version, skip the chili powder or use a smoked paprika for a gentle flavor infusion.
This way, you retain the warmth without overwhelming anyone’s taste buds, perfect for young eaters! -
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shredded beef to the filling for a heartier meal option.
This simple addition takes these enchiladas to the next level, making them even more satiating and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making bean and cheese enchiladas, ensure you warm the corn tortillas just enough so they are pliable; this prevents cracking when rolling.
- Always taste your filling before assembling; adjusting salt and spices at this stage ensures every enchilada is flavorful.
- Use a combination of cheese for added depth, like mixing cheddar and Monterey Jack for a perfect melt.
- Bake the enchiladas uncovered to allow the top to get slightly crispy while the filling heats through in about 20 minutes at 350°F.
Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe black beans?
Absolutely! When selecting canned black beans, look for beans that are firm and intact without any off-putting smells. If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender. They should have a rich, earthy aroma and a smooth texture; avoid beans that feel hard or have dark spots.
How should I store leftover Bean and Cheese Enchiladas?
Very! Store your enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering them with foil to keep them moist. If you think you’ll have extras, check out freezing options below.
Can I freeze Bean and Cheese Enchiladas? How?
Absolutely! You can freeze both uncooked and cooked enchiladas. To freeze, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. For uncooked enchiladas, thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking, or bake from frozen for an extra 10-15 minutes, covering with foil until heated through.
What should I do if the tortillas crack when assembling?
Oh no! If your tortillas are cracking, try warming them a bit longer in the microwave or on a skillet to make them more pliable. If all else fails, you can always use a bit of enchilada sauce to help hold the cracked tortillas together when baking.
Are Bean and Cheese Enchiladas suitable for my dog?
Very good question! While the ingredients are generally safe for dogs—black beans and cheese in moderation—avoid spicy elements like chili powder and cumin. Always consult your vet before sharing human food with your pets to be on the safe side!
What’s the best way to add flavor variations?
Absolutely! Spice things up by adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach into the bean filling. You can also mix different cheeses for a more robust flavor. For a touch of heat, consider adding jalapeños to the mixture or drizzling hot sauce on top before serving!
Equipment
- Oven
- baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Microwave or skillet
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 can Cooked black beans drained and rinsed
- 2 cups Shredded cheese e.g. cheddar or Monterey Jack
- 1 cup Chopped onion adds a zesty crunch
- 1/4 cup Chopped cilantro introduces a fresh aroma
For the Tortillas
- 8 pieces Corn tortillas essential for wrapping
For the Sauce
- 2 cups Enchilada sauce the perfect spicy layer
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Cumin for warm, earthy notes
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder adjust based on heat preference
Instructions
How to Make Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine black beans, cheese, cumin, chili powder, onion, and cilantro in a bowl. Mix well.
- Warm the corn tortillas briefly in a microwave or skillet.
- Spoon the bean mixture into each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- Arrange the rolled tortillas seam side down in a baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Serve hot, topped with additional cheese or cilantro.
