Here’s a delicious, classic recipe for Mexican Cheese Enchiladas with Onion — simple, cheesy, and packed with flavor. These are restaurant-style, made with corn tortillas, a flavorful chili-based enchilada sauce, and lots of melted cheese and onions.
🌶️ Mexican Cheese Enchiladas with Onion
Servings: 4 (makes 8 enchiladas)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
🧂 Ingredients:
For the Enchiladas:
-
8 corn tortillas
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for softening tortillas)
For the Enchilada Sauce (or use 2 cups store-bought):
-
2 tbsp vegetable oil
-
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
-
2 tbsp chili powder
-
1/2 tsp garlic powder
-
1/2 tsp onion powder
-
1/4 tsp cumin
-
1/4 tsp oregano
-
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
-
Salt to taste
-
(Optional) 1 tbsp tomato paste for added richness
🔥 Instructions:
1. Make the Enchilada Sauce:
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, heat 2 tbsp oil. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
-
Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and oregano. Cook for another 30 seconds.
-
Gradually whisk in broth and optional tomato paste. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Add salt to taste and remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
-
In a skillet, lightly fry each tortilla in a bit of oil for a few seconds per side — just until soft and pliable. Drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas:
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Spread 1/2 cup of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Fill each tortilla with shredded cheese and a spoonful of chopped onion.
-
Roll up and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
-
Pour the remaining sauce over the enchiladas, and sprinkle extra cheese and onion on top.
4. Bake:
-
Cover with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
-
Uncover and bake for another 5 minutes, or broil slightly for a browned top.
📝 Serving Suggestions:
-
Top with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or sour cream
-
Serve with refried beans and Mexican rice
-
Add black olives or diced green chiles for variation