If you’ve ever dined at Casa Vega, you know that their spinach enchiladas are nothing short of legendary. This iconic dish melds fresh, vibrant spinach with a rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly melted cheese, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas.
It’s a comforting yet elegant meal that captures the heart of traditional Mexican cuisine with a unique Casa Vega twist. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe brings the authentic taste of Casa Vega right into your kitchen.
Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these spinach enchiladas are sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation.
In this blog post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of recreating this delicious dish. You’ll learn how to prepare the filling, make the sauce from scratch, and assemble the enchiladas that are bursting with flavor.
Ready to bring a little Casa Vega magic home? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Casa Vega spinach enchilada recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It combines the earthy goodness of fresh spinach with creamy cheese, wrapped in tender tortillas and topped with a luscious enchilada sauce.
Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this dish:
- Fresh Ingredients: The recipe highlights fresh spinach, giving the enchiladas a vibrant color and healthy boost.
- Rich, Homemade Sauce: Instead of a store-bought shortcut, you’ll create a flavorful enchilada sauce that elevates the dish.
- Perfect Balance: The creamy cheese and the slight tang of the sauce balance beautifully with the spinach.
- Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful, it’s a great way to get everyone to enjoy vegetables.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sauce and filling in advance for quick assembly later.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 8 corn tortillas
- For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt, to taste
- Optional Garnishes: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
- Grater (for cheese)
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula or tongs
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Spinach: Gradually add the chopped spinach in batches, stirring until wilted. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and transfer the spinach mixture to a bowl to cool slightly.
- Mix in Cheese: Once the spinach mixture is warm but not hot, stir in 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. This will create a creamy, cheesy filling perfect for the enchiladas.
- Make the Enchilada Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and continue whisking for about 1 minute to form a roux without browning.
- Season the Sauce: Add chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano to the roux. Slowly whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Add salt to taste.
- Warm the Tortillas: To make them pliable, warm the corn tortillas briefly in a dry skillet or microwave under a damp paper towel.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish. Dip each tortilla in the enchilada sauce to coat both sides, then place about 1/4 cup of the spinach and cheese filling in the center. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in the dish. Repeat with all tortillas.
- Top and Bake: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle additional shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top for that perfect melty finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Add optional garnishes like sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or lime wedges for added flavor and presentation.
Tips & Variations
For the best flavor, use fresh spinach rather than frozen. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the filling or sauce.
Make it Vegan: Substitute cheese with vegan cheese alternatives or use crumbled tofu seasoned with nutritional yeast.
Protein Boost: Add black beans or cooked shredded chicken to the spinach mixture for extra heartiness.
Cheese Variations: Try mixing Monterey Jack with a bit of queso fresco or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Enchilada Sauce: For a smokier taste, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the enchilada sauce mixture.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 30 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Sodium | 480 mg |
Calcium | 250 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Casa Vega spinach enchiladas pair wonderfully with a simple Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. Add a crisp green salad with avocado and lime dressing to balance the richness of the enchiladas.
For a refreshing contrast, serve with chilled agua fresca, such as horchata or a tangy limeade. If you’re interested in exploring more Mexican-inspired dishes, check out these recipes:
- Mississippi Pot Roast Tacos Recipe
- Camarao Na Moranga Recipe
- California Pizza Kitchen Chicken Tequila Fettuccine Recipe
Conclusion
Recreating the Casa Vega spinach enchiladas at home is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of classic Mexican comfort food to your table. This recipe balances fresh spinach, creamy cheese, and a rich homemade enchilada sauce to deliver a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
It’s perfect for family meals or entertaining guests who appreciate authentic, heartfelt cooking.
With flexible options for customization, such as adding protein or making it vegan, this recipe offers versatility while maintaining the soul of the original dish. Don’t forget to serve with your favorite sides and garnishes to elevate the meal even further.
For more delicious ideas and recipes, check out our Lamb Tenderloin Recipes or the refreshing Halibut Dip Recipe.
Enjoy your cooking journey and savor every bite of these classic Casa Vega spinach enchiladas!
📖 Recipe Card: Casa Vega Spinach Enchilada
Description: A flavorful spinach enchilada recipe inspired by Casa Vega's classic style. Packed with fresh spinach and a rich enchilada sauce, it's a delicious vegetarian option.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 corn tortillas
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add chopped spinach, cumin, chili powder, and salt; cook until spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat and mix in half the cheese and cilantro.
- Soften tortillas by warming them briefly in a pan or microwave.
- Fill each tortilla with spinach mixture, roll up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce evenly over rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with sour cream if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 25 g
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