Best Vegetarian Cheese Enchilada Recipe for Easy Meals

If you’re craving a comforting Mexican classic without any meat, this best vegetarian cheese enchilada recipe is your perfect go-to. Bursting with gooey melted cheese, vibrant spices, and a rich enchilada sauce, these enchiladas bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.

Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or simply looking to enjoy a hearty meatless meal, this recipe balances fresh ingredients with traditional flavors that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or serving a crowd during festive occasions.

From the creamy cheese filling to the homemade sauce that ties it all together, each bite is a delightful experience. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like black beans, corn, and peppers to add texture and nutrition.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with enchiladas that are every bit as delicious as their meaty counterparts – but completely vegetarian!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian cheese enchilada recipe is a winner for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, combining melted cheese with a tangy, mildly spiced sauce that complements the fresh vegetable filling perfectly.

It’s also very adaptable; you can add your favorite veggies or substitute cheeses to fit your taste and dietary needs.

Another reason to love this dish is its convenience. You can make the enchiladas ahead of time and bake them when ready, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Plus, it’s family-friendly, satisfying both kids and adults alike with its comforting texture and familiar flavors.

Finally, this recipe is a fantastic source of protein and fiber thanks to the beans and veggies, making it a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction.

Ingredients

• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream or guacamole (optional, for serving)

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Grater (for cheese)
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
2. Prepare the filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced red and green bell peppers, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Mix the cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup cheddar cheese and all the Monterey Jack cheese. Set aside remaining cheddar for topping.
5. Warm the tortillas: To prevent cracking, warm the tortillas on a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp towel for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the enchiladas: Spoon about 1/4 cup of the vegetable and bean mixture along the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle with a generous amount of the cheese mixture. Roll the tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
7. Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure to cover all surfaces.
8. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top for a delicious golden crust.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream or guacamole if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try roasting the bell peppers before adding them to the filling.

• Use fresh homemade enchilada sauce to elevate the dish – it’s easier than you think and tastes incredible.
• Swap black beans for pinto beans or add cooked mushrooms for a different texture.
• Use whole wheat or flour tortillas if preferred, but corn tortillas provide the most authentic flavor.
• Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Make it vegan by substituting the cheese with plant-based cheese alternatives and using vegan sour cream.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian cheese enchiladas pair beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Consider a fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette or a simple Mexican rice to soak up any extra sauce.

For added creaminess and flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side. You can also offer sliced jalapeños or pickled onions for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

If you want to keep the meal light, a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus is a great option. For a heartier feast, try pairing these enchiladas with Chipotle Black Beans and Rice or a fresh batch of Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce for a creamy pasta side.

Conclusion

This vegetarian cheese enchilada recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic comfort food without meat. With its rich, cheesy filling and flavorful sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for weeknights but special enough for gatherings.

The blend of black beans, corn, and peppers adds texture and nutrition, making this dish both satisfying and wholesome.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more meatless meals into your routine, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and sides to make it your own.

For more delicious recipes to complement your enchiladas, check out our Cheese Penny Recipe or indulge your sweet tooth afterward with a slice of Chocolate Heaven Cake.

Happy cooking and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

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