If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, you’re probably familiar with enchiladas. These flavorful, rolled tortillas filled with various ingredients are a favorite in many households. One variation that’s gaining popularity is spinach and cheese enchiladas. Packed with nutritious spinach, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices, this dish is not only delicious but also simple to make. In this article, we’ll dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this mouthwatering meal.
Introducing Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas
Spinach and cheese enchiladas offer a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the earthy taste of spinach with the richness of cheese. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a satisfying meal or simply craving something different, these enchiladas are sure to please your palate.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
To prepare spinach and cheese enchiladas, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 cups fresh spinach
- Juice of half a lime
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 4.5 oz canned chopped green chiles
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 28 oz can green enchilada sauce
- 8 burrito size flour tortillas
- 4 cups Mexican blend shredded cheese, divided
- Optional toppings: additional cilantro, green onions, olives, avocado
3. Instructions: How to Make Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas
Follow these steps to create delicious spinach and cheese enchiladas:
3.1. Preparing the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in lime juice, cilantro, green chiles, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and cumin until well combined.
- Remove skillet from heat and mix in cream cheese, sour cream, 2 cups of shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
3.2. Assembling the Enchiladas
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Pour about ⅓ of the enchilada sauce into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Spoon about ⅓ cup of the spinach filling onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat until the dish is full.
- Top the rolled enchiladas with the remaining sauce and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
3.3. Baking and Serving
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce begins to bubble.
- Serve warm, garnished with desired toppings such as additional cilantro, green onions, olives, or avocado.
Enjoy Your Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas
Spinach and cheese enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal option for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
FAQs About Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before using it in the recipe.
2. Can I make spinach and cheese enchiladas ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add extra baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
3. Are spinach and cheese enchiladas spicy?
- The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your taste preferences by adjusting the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper used in the recipe.
4. Can I freeze spinach and cheese enchiladas?
- Yes, spinach and cheese enchiladas freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing, and they’ll keep for up to three months.
5. What can I serve with spinach and cheese enchiladas?
- Spinach and cheese enchiladas pair well with rice, beans, or a side salad for a complete meal.
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