Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Smothered cheese enchiladas with chili gravy are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Tex-Mex to your table. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these enchiladas feature soft tortillas rolled around gooey cheese and topped with rich, flavorful chili gravy. Their comforting nature and bold flavors make them a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of melted cheese and chili gravy creates a warm, hearty meal that warms the soul.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these cheese enchiladas as a main course or pair them with sides like rice and beans for a complete feast.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness, making it a hit at family gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the enchiladas in advance and bake them when you’re ready to serve, simplifying mealtime.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect cheese enchiladas with chili gravy, you’ll need some essential tools to aid your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Casserole dish (9×13 inch)
• Wooden spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: This helps prevent sticking while frying tortillas, ensuring they remain intact and easy to handle.
• Casserole dish: A sturdy dish is necessary for baking your enchiladas evenly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spatula: Perfect for breaking up ground beef while cooking without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

Smothered cheese enchiladas with chili gravy—warm, hearty, and Tex-Mex perfection for family dinners.

• 1 lb 80/20 ground beef, chili grind if available
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 cup minced white onion
• 2 tablespoons Texas chili powder, such as Mexene or Gebhardts
• 1 teaspoon powdered garlic
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Mexican oregano
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups beef stock
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 12 oz medium cheddar, freshly grated from block
• 1/2 cup minced white onion
• 12-16 fresh yellow or white corn tortillas
• 1 cup oil for frying

How to Make Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet on medium heat, sear the ground beef while breaking it up with a wooden spatula. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Allow the meat to sear well. Add minced onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Incorporate the chili powder, powdered garlic, cumin, and Mexican oregano. Let the spices brown slightly.
Turn the heat down to medium and sprinkle in flour. Mix it into the fat and juices to create a roux. Slowly pour in beef stock while whisking to combine. Increase heat to medium-high until boiling while stirring. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes to deepen flavors. Finish with additional salt if needed and fresh lemon juice for acidity.

Step 2: Fry Tortillas

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a nonstick skillet over low heat. Fry each tortilla for 1–2 seconds on each side until softened. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Continue until all tortillas are fried.

Step 3: Soften Tortillas in Microwave

Wrap all corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for 45 seconds until pliable enough for rolling. Reheat if they cool during assembly.

Step 4: Assemble Enchiladas

Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a casserole dish with olive oil or pan spray. Grate cheddar cheese and mince white onion. Lay out one corn tortilla; add 2 tablespoons of grated cheese and some minced onion in the center. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all enchiladas are assembled. Cover them with prepared chili gravy sauce.

Step 5: Bake Enchiladas

Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional cheese and white onion on top before serving.

Step 6: Reheat Leftovers

To reheat leftovers, cover the dish with foil and bake at 325°F for 12–15 minutes with 1 tablespoon of water at the bottom of the dish or microwave individual servings as needed.

Step 7: Final Baking Touches

Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes covered in foil. Remove foil afterward to bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese melts beautifully on top.

How to Serve Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Serving cheese enchiladas with chili gravy can turn a simple meal into a family gathering highlight. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh and zesty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides creaminess and balances the spice of the chili gravy.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado slices make for a delicious addition.

Pair with Refreshing Beverages

• Margaritas: A classic Tex-Mex pairing, margaritas offer a tangy kick that goes well with enchiladas.
• Agua Fresca: Light and refreshing, agua fresca can be made from fruits like watermelon or lime for a perfect accompaniment.

Create a Tex-Mex Feast

• Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar featuring toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa so guests can customize their meal.
• Chips and Salsa: Offer tortilla chips with homemade salsa as an appetizer to get everyone excited about the main dish.

Serve with Rice and Beans

• Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in tomato sauce adds another layer of flavor to your meal.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and complement the enchiladas perfectly.

How to Perfect Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Making cheese enchiladas with chili gravy requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even better result.

• Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas will give your enchiladas a soft texture, making them easier to roll and more flavorful.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, enhancing the overall taste.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices in your chili gravy according to your heat preference. More chili powder can add depth!
• Allow Time for Assembly: Take your time when rolling the tortillas to ensure they don’t tear and maintain their shape during baking.
• Bake Until Bubbly: Ensure enough baking time so that the cheese is melted and bubbly on top, creating that irresistible crust.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing your enchiladas to rest for a few minutes after baking helps them set, making them easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Cheese enchiladas with chili gravy can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and spices makes a deliciously sweet and savory side.
2. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip enhances flavors and provides a cooling effect against spicy enchiladas.
3. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness and crunch.
4. Cabbage Slaw: A light slaw adds freshness; consider adding lime juice for an extra zing.
5. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad of black beans mixed with corn, peppers, and spices brings protein and flavor balance.
6. Spanish Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice cooked in broth gives an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with enchiladas.
7. Fried Plantains: Sweet plantains fried until caramelized provide a unique contrast to savory dishes.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini add texture and are great for using up summer produce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas are key for the best texture. Choose soft and pliable tortillas to avoid cracks when rolling.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your meat and sauce enough can lead to bland enchiladas. Taste as you cook and adjust spices to enhance flavor.
• Overfilling the tortillas: It’s tempting to add lots of cheese, but overfilling can cause tearing. Stick to 2 tablespoons of cheese per tortilla for easy rolling.
• Not properly warming tortillas: Cold tortillas can break when rolled. Always warm them in oil or the microwave for flexibility.
• Neglecting the baking time: Underbaking enchiladas means they won’t reach their full flavor potential. Bake until they’re hot and bubbly for the best result.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

• Wrap enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 325°F, cover with foil, and bake for 12-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to create steam.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy, we’ve got answers!

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheeses for a unique flavor.

What can I serve with Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy?

These enchiladas pair well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy them with your favorite sides!

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap out the ground beef for black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth for the chili gravy.

Can I prepare Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas and keep them covered in the fridge until ready to bake. Just allow extra time in the oven if baking from cold.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy are a delightful addition to any family dinner. Their warm, cheesy goodness paired with rich chili gravy makes them irresistible. Plus, you can customize them by adding vegetables or different proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!