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Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Crispy fried tortillas hold savory bean and cheese enchiladas perfectly.

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The key to perfect enchiladas is briefly frying the tortillas in hot oil before saucing and filling them. This creates a barrier that keeps them from becoming soggy under the savory bean and cheese mixture. It’s a cozy, pantry-friendly meal that comes together quickly for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil, plus more for frying tortillas
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can red enchilada sauce
  • 8 (6-inch) corn tortillas
  • 3 cups shredded cheese (mix of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar)
  • For serving: chopped cilantro, diced red onion, sour cream, sliced avocado

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add beans to skillet. Mash about half with a potato masher or fork. Stir in ½ cup enchilada sauce. Remove from heat.
  4. In a small skillet, heat about ¼ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Fry each tortilla for 10-15 seconds per side until pliable. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Spread ½ cup enchilada sauce in bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  6. Dip a fried tortilla in sauce to coat lightly. Place on a plate, add 3 tablespoons bean filling and a pinch of cheese down the center. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in dish. Repeat.
  7. Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not skip frying the tortillas; it prevents sogginess. Let enchiladas rest before serving for cleaner slices. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese. Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.

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