5-Ingredient Weeknight Enchiladas (Ready in 20!)

Introduction

Tired of complicated weeknight dinners? This Lazy Enchiladas recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a comforting, flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave deliciousness without the fuss.

Why This Works

This recipe prioritizes speed and ease without sacrificing taste. Pre-made ingredients and minimal prep make it ideal for even the busiest cooks. The rich tomato-based sauce and melty cheese create a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish the whole family will love.

Key Ingredients

• 🥫 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 🌶️ 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
• 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 🌮 1 (10 ounce) package corn tortillas
• 🫘 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 🧅 ½ cup chopped onion
• 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 🌿 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 🌿 ½ teaspoon cumin
• 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened, about 2-3 minutes.

3️⃣ Simmer Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

4️⃣ Assemble Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of the sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the corn tortillas, slightly overlapping if needed, in the dish.

5️⃣ Fill & Top: Spoon a generous amount of the black beans over the tortillas. Top with the remaining tomato sauce and sprinkle generously with cheddar cheese.

6️⃣ Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tortillas are heated through.

Handy Tips

• Use pre-shredded cheese to save time.
• Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, to the sauce.
• If your tortillas are dry, lightly warm them before layering to prevent cracking.

Heat Control

The 375°F (190°C) oven temperature ensures the cheese melts perfectly and the tortillas are heated through without burning. Don’t overbake; slightly underbaked tortillas will soften as they sit.

Crunch Factor

While these are “lazy” enchiladas, you can add a bit of crunch by topping with some crushed tortilla chips or fried onions before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
• Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for a heartier meal. Simply shred and add it along with the black beans.
• To make it even faster, use a store-bought enchilada sauce.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These enchiladas aren’t traditionally gifted, but you could portion them individually into small oven-safe dishes for a thoughtful, delicious neighborly gesture.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
🌟 Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or queso fresco.
🌟 Vegetarian: Add a can of drained and rinsed corn to make it a hearty vegetarian meal.
🌟 Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce before baking.

Troubleshooting

• Dry Tortillas: If your tortillas are too dry, lightly steam them before layering or brush them with a little oil.
• Burnt Cheese: Reduce oven temperature slightly if the cheese is browning too quickly.
• Soggy Enchiladas: Make sure your sauce isn’t too thin before assembling; simmer longer if necessary.

FAQ

• Can I use different beans? Yes, kidney beans or pinto beans would also work well.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and bake just before serving. Store the assembled dish, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• What if I don’t have corn tortillas? Flour tortillas can be substituted, but they will have a slightly different texture.
• Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, freeze the assembled and unbaked enchiladas before baking. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

These Lazy Enchiladas are a weeknight lifesaver! They’re quick, easy, and delicious – everything busy cooks need. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!