While traditional Enchiladas often feature meat, this creamy Mushroom Enchiladas version takes a deliciously vegetarian turn.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or seeking a comforting weeknight dinner, these Creamy Mushroom Enchiladas will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or a mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
For the Enchiladas:
- 8–10 corn tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How To Make Mushroom Enchiladas
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped onion. Stir frequently and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. The softened onions add a sweet base to the filling that contrasts nicely with the earthiness of the mushrooms.
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can introduce a bitter flavor to the dish.
Now, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Cook the mushrooms, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 7–10 minutes. This step intensifies the mushrooms’ natural umami flavor, making the filling rich and hearty.
Sprinkle the dried tarragon over the mushrooms, and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Tarragon adds a subtle anise-like flavor that pairs beautifully with mushrooms, enhancing their complexity.
Remove the skillet from heat, and stir in the mascarpone cheese until it melts and coats the mushroom mixture evenly. The mascarpone adds a creamy richness that makes these enchiladas truly decadent.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
While the filling cools slightly, prepare the tortillas. Corn tortillas can be prone to cracking if not handled properly, so it’s important to warm them before assembling the enchiladas.
To warm the tortillas, you have two options. First, you can wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds until they are pliable. Alternatively, you can lightly toast each tortilla in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20–30 seconds per side.
Warming the tortillas not only makes them easier to roll, but it also enhances their flavor, adding a slight char that complements the savory filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
To assemble the enchiladas, spread a thin layer of the red enchilada sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This layer prevents the tortillas from sticking to the dish and adds extra moisture during baking.
Take one warmed tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the mushroom and mascarpone filling down the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging the rolled enchiladas side by side in the dish.
Once all the enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining red enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Ensure that each enchilada is fully covered, as this will keep them moist during baking.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the enchiladas. The cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly topping that adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Step 4: Bake the Enchiladas
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake the enchiladas for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. This bake time allows the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive and delicious dish.
If you prefer a crispier top, you can switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on the enchiladas during this time to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Garnish the enchiladas with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish. You can also serve the enchiladas with additional toppings like sour cream, sliced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Creamy Mushroom Enchiladas pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Spanish Rice: The mild flavor of Spanish rice complements the rich enchiladas without overwhelming the palate.
- Black Beans: A side of seasoned black beans adds protein and balances the creaminess of the enchiladas.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty enchiladas.
- Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole and crunchy tortilla chips make for a fun and festive accompaniment.
Tips and Variations
To customize this recipe to your taste or dietary preferences, consider the following tips and variations:
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mushroom filling for an extra kick.
- Use Different Mushrooms: For added depth of flavor, use a mix of mushrooms such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the mascarpone cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and use a plant-based shredded cheese for the topping.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini into the filling for added nutrition and flavor variety.
- Freeze for Later: These enchiladas freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. Assemble the enchiladas and cover the dish tightly with foil before freezing. When ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Creamy Mushroom Enchiladas offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining rich flavors and comforting textures in every bite. The earthiness of mushrooms, the creaminess of mascarpone, and the fragrant tarragon make these enchiladas a standout meal that is both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family dinner or as part of a larger feast, these enchiladas are sure to impress. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and savor the warm, comforting flavors of this vegetarian delight.
