Four Bean Enchiladas, a delightful Tex Mex creation originating from Better Homes and Gardens, has undergone a flavorful transformation to suit the palate of my family, rendering it a staple in our weekly menu rotation. This recipe embodies simplicity and satisfaction, making it a cherished favorite among my children. With a preparation time of just 35 minutes and a total cooking time of 1 hour and 20 minutes, these enchiladas epitomize convenience without compromising on taste, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when wholesome meals are a necessity.
Gathering the essential ingredients for this dish, including flour tortillas, red kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, great northern beans, ground cumin, fresh ground black pepper, tomato sauce, cheddar cheese, sliced ripe olives, and green onion sets the stage for a culinary journey through the heart of Southwestern U.S. cuisine. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the harmonious balance of flavors that defines these enchiladas.
To commence the preparation, stack the tortillas and wrap them tightly in foil, then bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 10 minutes. This step ensures that the tortillas become pliable, making them easier to roll and envelop the delectable filling. While the tortillas warm in the oven, the savory filling comes to life on the stovetop. Combining the beans, cheese soup, taco seasoning mix, ground cumin, and freshly ground black pepper in a saucepan, and heating them over medium-high heat infuses the mixture with robust flavors, creating a satisfyingly hearty filling.
Once the filling reaches the perfect temperature, spoon approximately 1/3 cup onto one end of each tortilla, then carefully roll them up, encapsulating the flavorful medley within. Arranging the filled tortillas seam side down in two 2-quart rectangular baking dishes sets the stage for the final steps in the culinary process.
In a bowl, the enchilada sauce and tomato sauce marry together, forming a luscious, velvety blanket of flavor that will envelop the enchiladas in a cascade of savory goodness. Pouring this sauce over the arranged tortillas, then covering them tightly with foil, ensures that each bite is infused with the essence of Southwestern cuisine.
The enchiladas are then baked at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together into a harmonious union. Once heated through, the foil is removed, and a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese adorns the enchiladas, creating a tantalizing layer of gooey goodness. Returning the enchiladas to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes melts the cheese to perfection, creating a golden-brown crust that beckons with irresistible allure.
For those who crave an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal, a final flourish of sliced ripe olives and green onions adds a vibrant touch to the finished dish. This optional step not only enhances the presentation but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the enchiladas.
With each serving boasting just under 590 calories, along with 15.8 grams of fat, 7.8 grams of saturated fat, 30.8 milligrams of cholesterol, and 1588.4 milligrams of sodium, these Four Bean Enchiladas offer a wholesome meal option that satisfies both the appetite and the soul. Furthermore, with a robust protein content of 29 grams and a generous fiber content of 19 grams per serving, this dish provides a nutritious boost that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
Whether enjoyed as a family dinner centerpiece or prepared ahead for a convenient weekday lunch, these Four Bean Enchiladas are sure to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Southwestern U.S., one delicious bite at a time.
