Creamy Spinach and Cheese Green Chile Enchiladas

If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously comforting meal that combines the richness of cheese with the vibrant freshness of spinach, you’re in for a treat! These Creamy Spinach and Cheese Green Chile Enchiladas are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re also a wholesome dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. The creamy filling, wrapped in soft tortillas and drenched in zesty green chile sauce, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe will elevate your culinary game.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a personal favorite because it perfectly balances flavors and textures. The creamy, cheesy filling mingles wonderfully with the slight heat of green chiles, while the addition of fresh spinach provides a burst of color and nutrition. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste, and it’s also a great way to sneak in some greens. Serve these enchiladas with a side of avocado and chopped cilantro, and you’ve got a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Gather These Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 10 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
• 4.5 oz can green chiles
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground chili powder
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 20 oz mild green chile enchilada sauce
• 8 flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
• Toppings: Green onions, chopped; fresh cilantro, chopped; diced avocado

Tools of the Trade

• Large skillet – for sautéing the vegetables and spinach.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the filling ingredients.
• Baking dish – to assemble and bake the enchiladas.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Spoon or spatula – for mixing and spreading the filling.

Build Creamy Spinach and Cheese Green Chile Enchiladas Step by Step

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Spinach

Gradually add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet, stirring as you go. The spinach will wilt down significantly; keep stirring until all the spinach is wilted and tender, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Mix in the Flavors

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, green chiles, ground cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Then, fold in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Prepare the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of green chile enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Take a tortilla, spoon about 1/3 cup of the creamy spinach mixture onto the center, and sprinkle with a little Monterey Jack cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly, placing it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all the enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining green chile enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Smart Substitutions

• For a vegan option, use plant-based sour cream and cheese alternatives.
• Swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option.
• Feel free to use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available; just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
• Experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Author’s Commentary

These Creamy Spinach and Cheese Green Chile Enchiladas are not only a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal, but they are also a fantastic way to use up any leftover ingredients you might have in your fridge. You can easily add in some cooked chicken or beans for extra protein. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Each bite is a warm hug, making it a go-to comfort food in my kitchen.

How to Store & Reheat

Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, though the oven will keep the tortillas from getting too soft.

Quick Questions

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil to keep them fresh.

What can I serve with these enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. You could also serve them with some tangy salsa or guacamole for added flavor.

Can I freeze the enchiladas?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them from frozen; just add a little extra baking time.

Are these enchiladas spicy?

The spice level is quite mild, thanks to the use of mild green chile enchilada sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can opt for medium sauce or add some diced jalapeños to the filling.

Bring It to the Table

These Creamy Spinach and Cheese Green Chile Enchiladas are sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of creamy cheese, vibrant spinach, and zesty green chiles creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. So gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this comforting meal together. You’ll find that each bite brings a smile, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, and creamy avocado for that extra touch of freshness. Happy cooking!