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Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy is a comforting and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring soft corn tortillas filled with a melty blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, all smothered in a rich, smoky chili gravy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gatherings, this recipe combines simple pantry staples into a warm, satisfying meal that can be easily customized for dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Enchiladas

  • 12 soft corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Chili Gravy

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chili Gravy: Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add red chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let the gravy simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally until smooth and velvety.
  2. Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warm the corn tortillas on a dry skillet or wrap them in a damp towel and microwave for about 30 seconds. This makes the tortillas flexible and easy to roll without cracking.
  3. Assemble the Enchiladas: Spoon a generous amount of the cheese blend onto each warmed tortilla, then roll it tightly. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in a single layer in a baking dish.
  4. Pour the Chili Gravy: Pour the hot chili gravy evenly over the enchiladas, making sure each one is thoroughly coated. This adds moisture and infuses the dish with bold flavor.
  5. Bake Until Bubbling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the enchiladas for about 20 minutes, or until the chili gravy is bubbly and the cheese inside is melted and gooey. Optional: sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.

Notes

  • Use fresh chili powder for the best smoky flavor and avoid stale taste.
  • Warming tortillas prevents tearing and makes rolling smoother.
  • The chili gravy can be made ahead and stored to save time on assembly day.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends to vary texture and flavor.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil during the first 15 minutes of baking to lock in moisture, then uncover to brown the cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese enchiladas, chili gravy, Mexican comfort food, gluten-free enchiladas, easy dinner, vegetarian enchiladas