Green Chile Enchiladas are a quintessential dish, resonating deeply with the flavors and heritage of the Southwestern United States. They’re not just a meal; they’re a culinary journey through the vibrant and robust tastes of the region. Whether you’re seeking a comforting family dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress with their savory allure and satisfying richness.
With a total preparation time of just 1 hour and 10 minutes, including 40 minutes of cooking time and 30 minutes of prep time, these Green Chile Enchiladas strike the perfect balance between convenience and homemade goodness. They embody the essence of “weeknight cooking made easy,” making them an ideal choice for busy households seeking a hearty and delicious meal without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Let’s delve into the recipe and uncover the secrets to crafting these irresistible enchiladas that garner rave reviews and leave taste buds tingling with delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces colby-monterey jack cheese, shredded
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 1 package (8 ounces) Velveeta cheese
- 1 can (8 ounces) mild green chilies
- 1 jar (4 ounces) diced pimentos
- 12 corn tortillas
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and garlic powder over medium heat, stirring frequently until the beef is crumbled and no longer pink.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the shredded colby-monterey jack cheese and diced onion, combining well with the cooked beef mixture. Set aside.
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Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat the chicken soup, evaporated milk, and Velveeta cheese over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the diced green chilies, diced pimentos, and any desired seasoning or dip mix to enhance the flavor. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients into the cheese sauce.
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Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, pour about 1 inch of water and heat over medium-high heat until it’s very hot.
- Using tongs, dip each corn tortilla into the hot water for 2 to 3 seconds, softening them for easier rolling.
- Drain the tortillas and spoon approximately 1/3 cup of the prepared meat mixture onto each tortilla, then roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled enchiladas in a lightly greased 13×9-inch baking dish, arranging them snugly side by side.
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Bake and Serve:
- Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the top of the assembled enchiladas, ensuring they are generously covered.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the enchiladas to become golden and bubbly.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 586.1
- Fat Content: 33.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 17.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 123.6mg
- Sodium Content: 1417.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 35.5g
- Fiber Content: 3.8g
- Sugar Content: 5.9g
- Protein Content: 36.6g
Recipe Yield and Serving Size:
- This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Each serving is packed with flavor and satisfaction, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves with a contented palate and a happy heart.
Recipe Tips and Variations:
- To add an extra kick of heat, consider using hot green chilies or incorporating a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper into the meat mixture.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked black beans or lentils for a protein-rich alternative.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for the filling or the cheese sauce to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
- Serve the enchiladas with a side of Spanish rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Green Chile Enchiladas embody the spirit of Southwestern cuisine, bringing together bold flavors, comforting textures, and simple ingredients to create a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Whether enjoyed on a cozy weeknight at home or shared with loved ones during a festive gathering, these enchiladas are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression and a longing for seconds. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the rich tapestry of flavors found in every bite of these mouthwatering Green Chile Enchiladas.
