Here’s a delicious and comforting recipe for Crispy Cheese Enchiladas — packed with gooey melted cheese, wrapped in lightly fried corn tortillas, and smothered in a rich red enchilada sauce. The “crispy” part comes from lightly pan-frying the enchiladas before baking or finishing them in the oven. Pure Tex-Mex goodness!
🧀 Crispy Cheese Enchiladas
🕒 Total Time: ~35–40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4 (makes about 8 enchiladas)
🧾 Ingredients
For the Enchiladas:
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8 corn tortillas
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2½ cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
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1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
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2–3 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or canola, for frying)
For the Red Enchilada Sauce (or use 1 can/store-bought):
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2 tbsp oil or butter
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2 tbsp flour
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2 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp cumin
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1/4 tsp oregano
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2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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Salt, to taste
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Optional: 1 tbsp tomato paste for extra depth
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Enchilada Sauce (if homemade)
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In a saucepan, heat oil and whisk in flour to make a roux.
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Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano. Cook 1 min.
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Gradually whisk in broth. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt.
2. Lightly Fry the Tortillas
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In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high.
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Briefly fry each tortilla for about 10–15 seconds per side — just until soft and pliable. Drain on paper towels. This prevents tearing and adds flavor.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Spoon a bit of sauce into a greased baking dish to coat the bottom.
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Fill each tortilla with shredded cheese (and onion, if using). Roll up and place seam-side down in the dish.
4. Add Sauce & More Cheese
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Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
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Sprinkle remaining cheese on top (about ½ to 1 cup).
5. Bake or Pan-Fry for Crispiness
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Oven method: Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
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Extra crispy version: Pan-fry filled enchiladas seam-side down in a bit of oil until crisp before transferring to the baking dish. Then bake just 10 minutes to melt cheese.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Top with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, sour cream, or avocado.
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Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple lime-dressed salad.
🔁 Variations
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Add a layer of refried beans or sautéed vegetables inside for extra substance.
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Make it spicy with diced jalapeños or hot sauce in the sauce or filling.
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Use flour tortillas if preferred, but corn is traditional and crisps better.