Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas

I have very few memories of my dad cooking dinner for our family when I was young (in his defense, my mother loves to cook), but there is one meal that’s always been the exception: enchiladas. As far as I can recall, anytime my mom was out for the evening that is what dad made us for dinner. Not sure how this became his meal of choice, but he was steadfast in his devotion to the dish. Luckily for us, he made some pretty tasty enchiladas.

Now, the enchiladas my dad made were typically ground beef or chicken, but these days I’m always on the hunt for more tasty meatless recipes. The idea of spinach and cheese enchiladas immediately piqued my interest as that combo is typically a total home run (creamy spinach dip, anyone?). And let me tell you… they did not disappoint! This recipe makes a hefty portion of food and we still polished off the entire dish in two days time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy dishes with a kick of spice, these Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas are a must-try. They offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, and are a perfect meatless alternative that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon
• Oven

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until fragrant, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Stir in lime juice, cilantro, chiles, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and cumin until thoroughly combined.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the cream cheese, sour cream, 2 cups of cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour about ⅓ of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
6. Spoon about ⅓ cup of the spinach filling into each tortilla, roll tightly, and place them in the baking dish seam side down. Repeat until the dish is full.
7. Top the rolled enchiladas with the remaining sauce (you may have sauce leftover) and sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheese on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce begins to bubble.
9. Serve warm and top with your desired garnishes.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the spinach is well-wilted before removing it from the heat to avoid excess moisture in the enchiladas.
• Feel free to adjust the spices according to your heat preference.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting quality.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a smoky flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
• If you prefer, substitute corn tortillas for a different texture.
• Add black beans to the filling for extra protein and fiber.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 450 | Protein: 15g | Carbs: 25g | Fat: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas up to the baking step, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Simply bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze these enchiladas?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I serve with these enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with a fresh salad, Spanish rice, or a side of refried beans.

Conclusion

These Spinach and Cheese Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful meatless meal. We hope you give this recipe a try and share your thoughts with us. Enjoy!