Name: Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cans refried beans (16 ounce each); 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided); 1/2 cup chopped onion; 12 tortillas corn tortillas (6 inch); 2 cans red enchilada sauce (10 ounce each); cooking spray

Introduction to Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

The Comfort of Homemade Enchiladas

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of refried bean and cheese enchiladas. Growing up, I fondly remember kitchen moments filled with laughter, the aroma of spices in the air, and my mom guiding us through each step. Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food; they're warm, cheesy, and just begging to be devoured after a long day.

What makes these enchiladas special? They’re wonderfully simple to prepare, making them perfect for anyone, regardless of cooking experience. The creamy filling of refried beans mingled with melted cheese and a hint of onion creates a deliciously satisfying core, all enveloped in soft tortillas and topped with rich enchilada sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize them with your choice of chicken or fresh cilantro!

Pairing these enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice elevates the meal, adding a burst of flavor while ensuring you’re completely satisfied. For further inspiration on authentic Mexican flavors, check out Mexican food culture to deepen your appreciation for this delightful cuisine. So let’s get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Essential ingredients for delicious enchiladas

Creating refried bean and cheese enchiladas is all about fresh and simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooking spray: to make sure your enchiladas don’t stick.
Refried beans: 2 (16-ounce) cans will provide a hearty and creamy base.
Shredded Mexican cheese blend: 2 cups, divided for that gooey and melty goodness.
Chopped onion: adding ½ cup gives a wonderful flavor kick.
Corn tortillas: 12 (6-inch) tortillas are perfect for wrapping your delicious fillings.
Enchilada sauce: 2 (10-ounce) cans, red or green, to pour over your creations for a tangy finish.

Optional ingredients for added flavor

While the essentials will create an amazing dish, you can enhance your refried bean and cheese enchiladas with:

Cooked chicken: for a protein boost if you want to mix in some meat.
Cilantro: a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add brightness and freshness.
Sour cream or guacamole: don’t forget these for serving — they take your dish to the next level!

Feel free to experiment with these optional ingredients to make the dish your own! For more tips on customizing your enchiladas, check out this link.

Step-by-step Preparation of Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Making refried bean and cheese enchiladas is a delicious way to indulge in comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these simple steps to prepare this flavorful dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Gather your ingredients

Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need. You’ll require:

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

Having your ingredients prepped and ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience. You might also want to have a spatula or wooden spoon handy for mixing and filling.

Preheat the oven

While you gather your ingredients, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll also want to spray a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray. This simple step helps to prevent the enchiladas from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Prepare the bean filling

In a microwave-safe bowl, mix your refried beans, 1.5 cups of shredded cheese, and chopped onion. Microwave this mixture on high for about a minute, or until the cheese has melted. The combination of beans, cheese, and onion creates a decadent filling that’s hard to resist!

Warm the tortillas

Next, it’s time to warm up those tortillas. This will help them become more pliable and easier to roll. Stack three tortillas on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Repeat this step for the remaining tortillas. If you have a skillet, you can warm them there too!

Assemble the enchiladas

Now comes the fun part! Take a small plate and pour enough enchilada sauce onto it to cover the bottom. Quickly dip one tortilla in the sauce, coating both sides. Then, spoon a generous amount of your bean filling down the center of the tortilla and carefully wrap it around the filling. Place each rolled enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Layer with sauce and cheese

Once all your enchiladas are assembled, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring every enchilada is covered. Finish by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep everything moist while it bakes.

Bake to perfection

Pop your assembled enchiladas into the preheated oven and bake for about 35–40 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!

By following these steps, you’ll create delightful refried bean and cheese enchiladas that are sure to impress your friends and family. Happy cooking! For more tips, check out Allrecipes for ideas on customizing your enchiladas with different ingredients or flavors.

Variations on Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Adding Proteins Like Chicken or Turkey Bacon

Looking to amp up your refried bean and cheese enchiladas? Adding proteins can enhance the dish’s heartiness! You can toss in shredded cooked chicken for a savory twist or even replace traditional bacon with crispy turkey bacon to keep it lighter. Just make sure to sauté your chicken or crisp up your turkey bacon before mixing them with the bean and cheese filling. The result? A deliciously satisfying enchilada that feels like a full meal.

Vegetarian Options for Bean Enchiladas

If you're feeling vegetarian, you've got plenty of options. Swap out your regular refried beans for a variety without lard, or even try black beans for a different flavor profile. You can also incorporate ingredients like sautéed bell peppers or roasted corn into the filling for added texture and taste. Not only are these variations healthier, but they also make for colorful, eye-catching enchiladas that are just as delicious! Want to explore more vegetarian ideas? Check out resources from The Vegetarian Resource Group for inspiration.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Ensuring the Right Consistency

For the perfect refried bean and cheese enchiladas, consistency is key. You want your refried beans to be creamy but not overly runny. If they're too thick, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or water when heating. This will create a smooth filling that rolls easily in the tortillas without tearing.

Alternative Sauces and Cheeses

Feel free to get creative with your sauces and cheeses! Instead of traditional red enchilada sauce, why not try a green sauce for a fresh twist? Cheddar, pepper jack, or even a vegan cheese alternative can add unique flavors. Experiment with what you have on hand, and create a customized dish that suits your taste. Explore more ideas on Allrecipes for inspiration!

Serving Suggestions for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Pairing with Sides Like Mexican Rice

To create a balanced meal, serve your refried bean and cheese enchiladas with a side of fluffy Mexican rice. Its vibrant flavors and tender grains complement the hearty fillings beautifully. Add a splash of lime juice and a handful of fresh cilantro to the rice for an extra burst of freshness. Consider black beans or sautéed peppers as alternative sides for variety.

Garnishing Ideas for Extra Flair

Elevate your enchilada experience with simple garnishing ideas that add flavor and visual appeal. Top your enchiladas with:

Chopped cilantro for freshness
Sliced black olives for a salty kick
A dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema for creaminess
Crumbled queso fresco for added texture

With these touches, your refried bean and cheese enchiladas will be a festive centerpiece for any meal. Don't forget to share your creations on social media using hashtags like #EnchiladaNight!

Time Breakdown for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Preparation Time

The preparation for these delightful refried bean and cheese enchiladas takes about 25 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing your filling, allowing you some time to sip a drink or set the table.

Cooking Time

Cooking these enchiladas will take roughly 40 minutes. This includes baking them until they're perfectly golden and bubbly, so resist the urge to peek until the timer goes off!

Total Time

In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. With this easy recipe, you can quickly whip up a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Discover more about the benefits of meal prep here!

Whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned pro, you'll love how straightforward and rewarding this dish is. Enjoy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Calories and Key Nutritional Components

Each serving of these delicious refried bean and cheese enchiladas contains approximately 479 calories. Nutritionally, they offer a satisfying combination of 20g of fat, 23g of protein, and 55g of carbohydrates. With 12g of dietary fiber, they help keep you feeling full longer.

Dietary Considerations

These enchiladas are versatile and can accommodate various dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, simply ensure your refried beans are lard-free. Moreover, swapping corn tortillas for flour can fit personal preferences or dietary restrictions, giving you more control over your meal's nutritional profile. Looking to enhance your nutritional intake? Pairing with a fresh side salad can boost your veggie count!

For a more in-depth look at the health benefits of beans, check out The Bean Institute which offers great insights into how beans can positively impact your diet.

FAQs about Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Can I make enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your refried bean and cheese enchiladas in advance can save you time on busy weeknights. You can assemble the enchiladas, cover them tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake them straight from the fridge.

What can I substitute for refried beans?

If you’re looking for a twist, you can substitute refried beans with black beans mashed up or even lentils for a unique flavor. White beans or hummus can work as well, offering a creamy texture. Just ensure whichever option you choose complements the cheese and sauce beautifully.

How can I make enchiladas spicier?

To amp up the heat in your refried bean and cheese enchiladas, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the bean mixture. You can also opt for a spicier enchilada sauce, or drizzle hot sauce over the finished dish for that extra kick. Spice levels are open to personal preference, so don’t be shy to experiment!

For more tips on customizing your enchiladas, check out Chili Pepper Madness for heat-infused ideas!

Conclusion on Refried Bean and Cheese Enchiladas

Embracing Homemade Comfort Food

In conclusion, refried bean and cheese enchiladas are the epitome of homemade comfort food. They're easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you're enjoying a casual weeknight dinner or hosting friends, these enchiladas are sure to delight. Embrace the heartwarming tradition of family cooking!