Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

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Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy are the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort food, wrapping gooey melted cheese in soft corn tortillas, all smothered in a rich, savory chili gravy. This dish brings the magic of a family-run Mexican restaurant right to your home, delivering that crave-worthy combo of spicy, cheesy, and saucy in every bite.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these enchiladas are surprisingly easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, they reheat beautifully and taste even better the next day.

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What Kind of Cheese Works Best?

For authentic flavor, go for a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack. Cheddar brings bold, tangy notes, while Monterey Jack adds a creamy, melty texture. You can also mix in a bit of Oaxaca or Asadero cheese for extra authenticity. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it often contains anti-caking agents that affect meltiness.

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Ingredients for the Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

• Corn tortillas: Essential for the authentic texture and flavor, as flour tortillas can become gummy.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a rich, sharp taste and beautiful melt.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a creamy smoothness to balance the cheddar.
• Onion (optional): Finely diced and sprinkled inside for extra crunch and flavor.
• Chili powder: The backbone of the gravy’s smoky, earthy flavor.
• Flour: Used to make the roux that thickens the gravy.
• Beef or vegetable broth: Creates a savory base for the chili gravy.
• Garlic powder, cumin, oregano: Boosts the sauce’s depth and gives it Tex-Mex soul.
• Vegetable oil: For making the roux and softening the tortillas.
• Salt and pepper: To bring all the flavors together.

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How To Make the Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Step 1: Make the Chili Gravy

In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden. Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

Lightly warm the corn tortillas in a skillet with a touch of oil or wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds. This softens them and prevents cracking during rolling.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of chili gravy on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each tortilla with a generous sprinkle of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, plus diced onions if using. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Pour the remaining chili gravy over the rolled enchiladas, making sure they are fully covered. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or dollops of sour cream if desired. Serve hot and enjoy that cheesy, spicy goodness!

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Serving and Storing Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy

Cheese Enchiladas are best served hot right out of the oven, with extra toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, and fresh diced tomatoes. Pair them with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad for a complete Tex-Mex feast. For a fun twist, offer jalapeño slices or pickled red onions on the side.

To store, let the enchiladas cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

Softening them in a skillet with oil or microwaving them wrapped in damp paper towels will make them pliable and easy to roll.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth in the chili gravy and skip any meat additions.

What other cheeses can I use?

Try Oaxaca, Asadero, or a Mexican cheese blend for authentic flavors. Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick.

Can I freeze the enchiladas?

Yes! Assemble and cover tightly with foil, then freeze. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

How spicy is the chili gravy?

It has a mild to medium heat. For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne or use hot chili powder.

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Want More Tex-Mex Ideas?

If you’re loving these Cheese Enchiladas with Chili Gravy, you’ll definitely want to check out these other mouthwatering dishes:

• Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage for a cozy, cheesy pasta night.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta when you’re craving indulgence.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta for a hearty family dinner.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli to balance veggies and creaminess.

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I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you go classic or add your own twist with extra spices or toppings? Drop a comment and let’s inspire each other to cook up more magic in the kitchen.

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