Red Cheese Enchiladas

Introduction
Comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying, Red Cheese Enchiladas are a timeless favorite that never fails to please. With soft tortillas wrapped around a rich, cheesy filling and smothered in a bold red enchilada sauce, this dish delivers the perfect balance of spice and creaminess. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a family gathering meal, or a cozy weekend treat, these enchiladas come together easily and taste like they’ve been simmering all day. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and plenty of melted cheese make this recipe a true classic. Let’s get started on making these irresistible Red Cheese Enchiladas!

Ingredients
To make Red Cheese Enchiladas, you’ll need:

– 10–12 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Colby-Jack cheese
– 2 cups red enchilada sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt to taste

Optional toppings:
– Sour cream
– Chopped cilantro
– Sliced black olives
– Diced tomatoes

These simple ingredients come together to create a cheesy, saucy dish full of comforting flavor.

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Warm the tortillas briefly in a skillet or microwave to make them flexible.
3. In a bowl, mix the shredded cheeses with cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt.
4. Spoon a small amount of cheese mixture into the center of each tortilla.
5. Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
6. Pour the red enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
7. Sprinkle any remaining cheese on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.
10. Let rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite toppings.

Variations

– Add diced green chilies to the cheese filling for extra heat.
– Use queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese for a more authentic twist.
– Mix cooked beans into the filling for added texture and protein.
– Top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
– Use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture.

Tips

– Lightly frying tortillas in oil helps prevent them from breaking.
– Don’t overfill the tortillas to keep them neatly rolled.
– Use homemade enchilada sauce for deeper flavor if available.
– Let the enchiladas rest before serving so they set properly.
– Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion
Red Cheese Enchiladas are a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that brings bold flavors and comforting warmth to the table. With melted cheese, rich red sauce, and tender tortillas, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, these enchiladas prove that classic comfort food never goes out of style. One bite, and they’re sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

FAQs

1. Can I make Red Cheese Enchiladas ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble them ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
2. Can I freeze cheese enchiladas?
   Absolutely. Freeze before baking, then thaw and bake as directed.
3. What’s the best cheese to use?
   Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend works best for melting.
4. Can I make this dish spicy?
   Yes, add chili flakes, jalapeños, or spicy enchilada sauce.
5. What sides go well with enchiladas?
   Rice, beans, salad, or guacamole are perfect pairings.