Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Smothered Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This dish brings together rich flavors and gooey cheese, wrapped in soft tortillas and drenched in a flavorful chili gravy. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that everyone will love. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a festive celebration, these enchiladas are sure to make any occasion special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty Flavor: The combination of spices and cheese creates a rich taste that satisfies every palate.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this classic Tex-Mex dish.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or toppings.
• Perfect for Leftovers: These enchiladas reheat beautifully, making them great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your cooking experience is seamless, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents sticking while frying tortillas and cooking meat, ensuring easy cleanup.
• Wooden spatula: Ideal for breaking up ground beef without scratching your cookware.
• Casserole dish: Perfect size for baking your delicious enchiladas evenly.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

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 before adding minced onion. Cook for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently. Incorporate the chili powder, powdered garlic, cumin, and Mexican oregano. Let the spices brown slightly.

Step 2: Create the Chili Gravy

Lower the heat to medium and sprinkle in flour. Mix 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, then reduce heat again. Let simmer for 15–20 minutes until flavors deepen. Finish with additional salt if needed and add fresh lemon juice for acidity.

Step 3: Fry the Tortillas

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

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Wrap all corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for 45 seconds so they become pliable enough for rolling. Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease your casserole dish with olive oil or pan spray. Lay out a tortilla, placing 2 tablespoons of grated cheese along with some minced onion in the center. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all enchiladas are assembled.

Step 5: Bake Your Enchiladas

Cover all assembled enchiladas with prepared chili gravy sauce. Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes until hot and bubbly. For extra flavor, sprinkle more cheese and white onion on top before serving.

Step 6: Reheat Leftovers (Optional)

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

Step 7: Final Bake

For an even crispier top layer of cheese, bake at 375°F covered with foil for about 30 minutes. Remove foil during the last ten minutes to allow cheese to melt beautifully on top.

Enjoy your homemade Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Cheese enchiladas with chili gravy are not just a dish; they are a celebration of flavors and textures. Serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro provides a burst of flavor and color.
• Sliced Jalapeños – For those who enjoy heat, sliced jalapeños can be an exciting addition.

Pair with Sides

• Mexican Rice – Fluffy Mexican rice complements the enchiladas beautifully.
• Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans add richness and protein to the meal.
• Guacamole – A scoop of guacamole brings a cool, creamy texture that pairs well.

Serve with Salad

• Cabbage Slaw – A tangy cabbage slaw offers crunch and freshness, balancing the dish’s richness.
• Tomato Salad – Fresh tomato salad with lime juice is light and refreshing.

How to Perfect Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Making perfect cheese enchiladas with chili gravy is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for freshly grated cheese and homemade chili gravy for maximum flavor.
• Warm Tortillas Properly – Make sure to warm your tortillas well; this prevents them from cracking when rolling.
• Don’t Overfill Tortillas – Avoid overfilling each tortilla; this ensures they roll easily without spilling out.
• Bake Covered Initially – Covering the dish while baking helps melt the cheese evenly and keeps the enchiladas moist.
• Add Extra Cheese on Top – Sprinkle extra cheese before baking for a deliciously cheesy crust.
• Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing the enchiladas to sit for a few minutes after baking makes serving easier and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

To create a complete Tex-Mex meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair perfectly with cheese enchiladas.

1. Spanish Rice – This flavorful rice dish is seasoned with tomatoes, onions, and spices for a savory complement.
2. Refried Beans – Smooth and creamy refried beans add heartiness and depth to your plate.
3. Guacamole – Creamy avocados mixed with lime juice offer a fresh contrast to the rich enchiladas.
4. Corn Salad – A vibrant corn salad with lime dressing brings sweetness and crunch to your meal.
5. Pico de Gallo – Fresh diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime make this salsa a zesty topping or side.
6. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips served with spicy salsa are perfect for snacking before dinner or alongside your main dish.
7. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime is an irresistible treat.
8. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains add a unique twist that complements the savory flavors of enchiladas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the roux: Failing to create a roux can result in a watery chili gravy. Make sure to mix the flour into the beef fat and juices before adding the stock.
• Overfilling tortillas: Stuffing too much cheese and onion can cause tearing during rolling. Stick to 2 tablespoons of cheese and a sprinkle of onion for each tortilla.
• Neglecting tortilla preparation: Using cold or uncooked tortillas can lead to tough enchiladas. Always fry or microwave them until pliable before assembling.
• Underbaking the dish: Removing the enchiladas too soon can leave them cold in the center. Bake until bubbly and hot throughout for a satisfying meal.
• Forgetting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting salt or spices can lead to bland flavors. Always sample your chili gravy before pouring it over the enchiladas.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheese enchiladas with chili gravy will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• You can freeze enchiladas for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 12-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place individual servings on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make cheese enchiladas with chili gravy from scratch?

To make cheese enchiladas with chili gravy from scratch, prepare your chili gravy by following the instructions provided. Then, fill tortillas with cheese, roll them up, and cover them with the sauce before baking.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While medium cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, queso blanco, or even pepper jack for added flavor.

What toppings go well with cheese enchiladas?

You can top your cheese enchiladas with sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth for the chili gravy.

What sides pair well with cheese enchiladas with chili gravy?

Serve your enchiladas alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

These Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy are not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different proteins or vegetables to suit your taste. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings—give it a try!