Name: Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cans refried beans; 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided); ½ cup chopped onion; 12 pieces corn tortillas; 2 cans red enchilada sauce; as needed cooking spray

Introduction to Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Why Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas are the Perfect Homemade Meal

If you're looking for a delectable dish that combines simplicity and flavor, look no further than refried bean and cheese enchiladas. These enchiladas are a heartwarming reminder of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Growing up, I spent countless evenings in the kitchen with my mom and sisters, wrapping warm tortillas around a creamy bean filling. The best part? You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip these up, making them an ideal choice for those new to cooking or anyone short on time.

Did you know that traditional enchiladas date back to the Aztecs? Their versatility is one of the reasons they remain popular—feel free to personalize your refried bean and cheese enchiladas with additional ingredients like shredded chicken or fresh cilantro. Pairing them with sides like Mexican rice elevates your meal to the next level, ensuring every bite is satisfying.

Exploring flavors in your home kitchen doesn’t have to be daunting; these enchiladas are proof! Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, they’re bound to impress. Check out this guide to Mexican cuisine for more inspiration!

Ingredients for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Essential Ingredients for Delicious Enchiladas

When whipping up a batch of refried bean and cheese enchiladas, you'll want to gather these key ingredients:

Cooking spray: For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
Refried beans: Two 16-ounce cans will provide a hearty base.
Shredded Mexican cheese blend: You'll need 2 cups, divided, for that gooey, melty texture.
Chopped onion: A ½ cup enhances the flavor beautifully.
Corn tortillas: Grab a pack of 12 (6-inch) for wrapping those tasty fillings.
Red enchilada sauce: Two 10-ounce cans will bring the right amount of zing!

These simple ingredients come together to create comfort food that's perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

Feel free to personalize your refried bean and cheese enchiladas with some of these optional ingredients:

Chicken or turkey bacon: Adding protein can make these enchiladas more filling.
Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle adds freshness and color.
Shredded lettuce or diced tomatoes: Perfect toppings for crunch.
Sour cream or avocado slices: Tasty garnishes that enrich every bite.

Get creative! Mix and match to make these enchiladas truly yours. For more cooking tips, check out this resource to enhance your culinary journey!

Step-by-Step Preparation for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Creating refried bean and cheese enchiladas is a delightful experience that can fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Whether it's a family dinner or a casual get-together, following these simple steps will guide you in preparing this delicious dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. This not only saves time but also makes the cooking process more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooking spray
2 (16-ounce) cans of refried beans
2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
½ cup of chopped onion
12 (6-inch) corn tortillas
2 (10-ounce) cans of red enchilada sauce

Don’t you just love the sight of your ingredients all laid out? It makes the cooking feel like a fun project!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Now that you're organized, let's get cooking! Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While it is warming up, grab a 9x13-inch casserole dish and spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This simple step ensures your enchiladas slide out easily when it’s time to serve.

Create the Filling with Refried Beans and Cheese

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the refried beans, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, and the chopped onion. Mix everything well, then microwave on high for about 1 minute or until the cheese is melted. This is the filling that will make your refried bean and cheese enchiladas irresistible!

Warm the Tortillas for Easier Rolling

A key to smooth rolling is warming up the tortillas. Stack three corn tortillas on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for about 30 seconds. Repeat this step for the remaining tortillas. Soft, pliable tortillas are a game-changer – no tearing here!

Assemble the Enchiladas with Filling and Sauce

Now comes the fun part! Pour enough enchilada sauce onto a small plate to cover. Quickly dip both sides of one tortilla in the sauce, then spoon the bean and cheese filling down the middle. Gently wrap the tortilla around the filling and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process for the other tortillas.

Bake Until Perfectly Bubbly and Delicious

Once all enchiladas are lined up in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over them and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Watching those refried bean and cheese enchiladas transform in the oven is sheer bliss!

Now you’re all set to enjoy a delightful meal. Whether you serve them with Mexican rice or a fresh salad, these enchiladas are sure to impress. For more cooking inspiration, check out Allrecipes. Happy cooking!

Variations on Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Enchiladas with Chicken for Extra Protein

Looking to boost your enchilada game? Try adding shredded chicken to your refried bean and cheese enchiladas. Simply mix cooked, shredded chicken into your bean and cheese filling for a hearty, protein-packed twist. You could even use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. The savory chicken pairs beautifully with the spices in the enchilada sauce, making every bite delicious and satisfying.

Vegetarian Twist with Additional Veggies

For a fresh and vibrant take, consider a vegetarian version packed with veggies. Try adding sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the refried bean and cheese enchiladas filling. Not only will this add color and texture, but it will also enhance the nutritional profile. Ideal for those evenings when you want something tasty and wholesome, these variations keep your meal exciting and can easily cater to different dietary preferences.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Tricks to Avoid Soggy Tortillas

To keep your refried bean and cheese enchiladas from getting soggy, try warming the tortillas before assembly. A quick microwave zap will keep them pliable, making them easier to roll. Additionally, don’t forget to dip them in enchilada sauce just before filling, but avoid letting them soak too long. This balance will give you that perfect texture!

How to Enhance Flavor Without Overcomplicating

For a flavor boost, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the refried beans. You could also toss in some sautéed bell peppers or other veggies. These simple tweaks not only elevate the taste but keep your preparation hassle-free. Cooking doesn’t have to be complex; sometimes a few additional ingredients make all the difference!

Serving Suggestions for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Pairing Ideas: Sides and Toppings

To elevate your refried bean and cheese enchiladas, consider serving them with a side of Mexican rice for a comforting touch. A fresh salad with avocado, tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing is another delightful option. For toppings, try sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro to enhance those vibrant flavors. Crushed tortilla chips add a nice crunch, while jalapeños or hot sauce can spice things up for those who love a kick!

Drinks to Complement Your Meal

For beverages, pair your enchiladas with a refreshing fruit-infused agua fresca, like mango or cucumber. If you're in the mood for something bubbly, sparkling water with lime is a perfect match. Unsweetened iced tea infused with citrus complements the richness of the enchiladas beautifully. Whatever you choose, make sure it balances the flavors for a delightful dining experience!

Time Breakdown for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Preparation Time

Getting ready to whip up these delicious refried bean and cheese enchiladas will take about 25 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients and preparing the filling.

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, you'll spend around 40 minutes cooking these enchiladas in the oven, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish—a perfect time frame for a hearty weeknight dinner.

With this simple time breakdown, you can easily plan your cooking routine, ensuring delicious enchiladas are on the table in no time! For more tips on meal prep, check out this article.

Nutritional Facts for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Calories per Serving

Each serving of these refried bean and cheese enchiladas packs approximately 479 calories. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any cozy evening!

Key Nutritional Information

Let’s break down what you’re getting when indulging in this hearty dish:

Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 1056mg
Total Carbohydrates: 55g
Dietary Fiber: 12g
Total Sugars: 2g
Protein: 23g
Calcium: 407mg
Iron: 4mg
Potassium: 811mg

With such a good balance of protein and fiber, these enchiladas not only taste great but also help keep you full longer. Plus, if you're looking for more insights into the benefits of beans, you might want to check out this article from Healthline. Happy cooking!

FAQs about Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Can I Make These Enchiladas Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your refried bean and cheese enchiladas a day in advance. Simply assemble them in your baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and heat them in the oven until warmed through.

What's the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely given how delicious these enchiladas are!), allow them to cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll keep well for about 3-4 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Can I Freeze Enchiladas for Later Use?

Yes, you can freeze these enchiladas! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven. Enjoy a taste of comfort anytime!

For more tips on meal prep, check out this guide on food safety.

Conclusion on Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Whipping up a tray of refried bean and cheese enchiladas is not just about enjoying great food; it's about sharing delicious moments with your loved ones. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!