Enchiladas are a staple in Mexican cuisine, offering a delicious combination of tortillas, rich fillings, and savory sauces. Among the various enchilada recipes, cheese and spinach enchiladas stand out as a classic, comforting dish that never disappoints.
This recipe brings together the earthiness of fresh spinach, the creamy goodness of cheese, and the warmth of spices, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will satisfy your cravings with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
To make these cheese and spinach enchiladas, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8–10 flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh cilantro and sliced avocado for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavor base for your enchiladas by releasing the natural sweetness of the onion.
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook the garlic for about a minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Garlic tends to burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
Now, it’s time to add the star ingredient: spinach. Gradually add the chopped spinach to the skillet, allowing it to wilt as you stir. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to add the spinach in batches. Spinach reduces significantly in volume as it cooks, so don’t worry if it seems like a lot initially.
Once the spinach is wilted, which should take about 3–4 minutes, season the mixture with ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices infuse the spinach with a deep, smoky flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
Step 2: Combine Spinach with Cheese
After seasoning the spinach, remove the skillet from heat. Let the mixture cool slightly before proceeding to the next step. Cooling is important because it prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and becoming stringy when mixed.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach with the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and crumbled queso fresco. The Monterey Jack adds a creamy, gooey texture, while the queso fresco provides a salty, crumbly contrast. Stir the mixture until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the spinach.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake the enchiladas.
While the oven is heating, prepare your tortillas. If you’re using corn tortillas, it’s best to warm them slightly before assembling the enchiladas. You can do this by heating them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for 20–30 seconds. This step softens the tortillas, making them more pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
To assemble the enchiladas, spoon about 1/3 cup of the spinach and cheese mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, lining the enchiladas up snugly in the dish.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Bake
Once all the enchiladas are assembled in the baking dish, pour the red enchilada sauce evenly over the top. The sauce should generously cover the enchiladas, seeping into the crevices and ensuring every bite is flavorful. If you like extra sauce, feel free to add more to suit your taste.
For an additional layer of richness, sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese over the sauce. This creates a gooey, golden topping that adds to the overall indulgence of the dish.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the enchiladas for 20–25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Baking melds all the flavors together, and the tortillas absorb some of the sauce, making each bite tender and delicious.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
After baking, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting time helps the enchiladas set, making them easier to plate.
To serve, use a spatula to transfer the enchiladas to individual plates. Garnish them with freshly chopped cilantro and slices of creamy avocado for added freshness and color. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice if you prefer.
Tips for Perfect Enchiladas
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach has a more vibrant flavor and better texture compared to frozen spinach. If you must use frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before cooking.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Monterey Jack melts beautifully, creating a creamy interior, while queso fresco adds a delightful crumbly texture. You can also experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar or Oaxaca cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika based on your heat preference. For a spicier kick, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spinach mixture.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these enchiladas in advance by assembling them without the sauce, covering them tightly, and refrigerating them for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, pour the sauce over the top and bake as directed.
Conclusion
Cheese and spinach enchiladas are a comforting dish that brings together the earthy flavors of spinach and the creamy richness of cheese. The combination of spices and the warm, baked tortillas makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Serve these enchiladas with your favorite Mexican sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
