Enchiladas are a beloved Mexican classic that can be easily adapted for vegetarians. This best veg enchilada recipe is packed with vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and just the right amount of spice to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, these enchiladas are comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. From the rich enchilada sauce to the tender filling wrapped in warm tortillas, every bite bursts with freshness and wholesome goodness.
What makes this dish truly special is the balance of textures and the versatility. You can customize the vegetables to your liking, add your favorite cheese or keep it vegan-friendly with plant-based options.
Plus, baking the enchiladas until bubbly and golden creates a satisfying finish that makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to dive into a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian enchilada recipe stands out for its rich, homemade enchilada sauce that’s easy to whip up and bursting with authentic flavors. The combination of sautéed vegetables and black beans creates a filling that’s both hearty and nutritious.
It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies without sacrificing taste.
Additionally, this recipe is adaptable for all dietary preferences — whether you want it vegan, gluten-free, or loaded with cheese. It’s perfect for meal prepping since it reheats beautifully, making lunch or dinner a breeze during busy weekdays.
Plus, it’s a fantastic dish to impress guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 12 corn tortillas (or flour tortillas if preferred)
- 2 cups canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (see instructions for homemade version)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: sliced jalapeños or avocado for serving
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Medium saucepan (for sauce)
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Instructions
- Prepare the enchilada sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add tomato base: Pour in 2 cups of tomato sauce and 1 cup vegetable broth. Stir well and simmer on low for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add bell pepper, zucchini, and corn: Cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp. Stir in black beans, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Warm tortillas: Lightly warm tortillas in a dry pan or microwave to make them pliable and easy to roll.
- Assemble enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the vegetable and bean mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with some shredded cheese, roll tightly, and place seam side down in the dish.
- Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and optional sliced jalapeños or avocado.
Tips & Variations
Tip: For a smokier flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the enchilada sauce while it simmers.
Variation: Swap black beans for pinto beans or add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a different veggie mix.
Make it vegan: Use dairy-free cheese and ensure your enchilada sauce contains no animal products.
Gluten-free option: Stick with corn tortillas, but check labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 enchilada) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Fiber | 8 g |
Fat | 8 g |
Saturated Fat | 3 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Serving Suggestions
These vegetarian enchiladas pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or Mexican street corn salad for a fresh contrast. For a heartier meal, serve with Spanish rice or a side of guacamole and tortilla chips.
A dollop of sour cream or vegan crema adds creaminess and balances the heat from the spices. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime for that extra zing.
If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe, perfect for a fresh, light meal, or our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for a flavorful plant-based option. For an indulgent treat, try the Meatballs And Alfredo Sauce Recipe as a complementary dinner idea.
Conclusion
This best veg enchilada recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting Mexican classic while keeping it vegetarian and nutrient-packed. The homemade enchilada sauce, combined with a colorful vegetable and bean filling, delivers bold flavors that are sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
It’s a versatile dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for entertaining guests.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Mexican cuisine, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Plus, with simple ingredient swaps and add-ins, you can tailor it to your dietary needs and taste preferences.
So grab your tortillas and get ready to enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Veg Enchilada Recipe
Description: A delicious and hearty vegetable enchilada packed with fresh veggies and melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add bell peppers, zucchini, corn, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with the vegetable mixture and some cheese, then roll up and place seam side down in the dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream or cilantro.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 45 g
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