Name: Easy Bean and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 tortillas (corn or flour); 2 cups refried beans (or mashed black beans); 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend); 2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green); 1/4 cup diced onions (optional); 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional); 1 tablespoon oil (for greasing the dish)

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Introduction

These easy bean and cheese enchiladas are a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can enjoy a classic Mexican-inspired meal in under an hour.

A blue rectangular baking dish filled with five rolled enchiladas lined side by side, each covered with a melted layer of golden and white cheese that looks bubbly and slightly browned on top. Beneath the cheese, a rich red sauce peeks out around the edges and between the tortillas. Small green cilantro leaves are sprinkled over the top along with a light sprinkle of black pepper. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a small bowl of green herbs visible to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 tortillas (corn or flour)
2 cups refried beans (or mashed black beans)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green)
1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
1 tablespoon oil (for greasing the dish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of oil.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the refried beans with 1/4 cup of the enchilada sauce for added flavor. If you like, mix in diced onions and chopped cilantro.
Step 3: Warm the tortillas briefly to make them pliable and easier to roll.
Step 4: Spread about 1/4 cup of the bean mixture down the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of shredded cheese over the beans.
Step 5: Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese generously on top.
Step 7: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 8: Let the enchiladas cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture before filling the tortillas.
Try using whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
Add cooked vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the bean mixture for added texture and nutrients.
Use a variety of cheeses to customize the flavor—pepper jack adds a nice kick.

Storage

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through. To avoid sogginess, you can reheat uncovered or sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before warming.

How to Serve

A rectangular baking dish filled with five rolled tortillas laid side by side, each covered in melted yellow and white cheese that is slightly browned and bubbly on top. Underneath the cheese, there is a layer of red sauce visible at the edges, and scattered green cilantro leaves and black pepper specks dot the top layer. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, and part of a wooden spoon and a bowl with green herbs can be seen at the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead, cover them, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I use canned beans instead of refried beans?

Absolutely. If using canned black beans or pinto beans, mash them well and mix with some enchilada sauce to create a similar texture and flavor to refried beans.