When the week drags on and fast food begins to lose its charm, I often find myself craving something warm and satisfying—like Enfrijoladas. These delightful tortillas stuffed with a creamy bean sauce have the uncanny ability to transform an ordinary weekday dinner into something truly special. Inspired by the simple yet bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine, this recipe is not just quick—ready in just 20 minutes—but also a comforting hug for the soul.
Picture soft corn tortillas enveloped in a velvety bean sauce, rich with spices, and topped with fresh ingredients that add delightful crunch and creaminess. Whether you’re vegetarian or simply looking to mix up your dinner routine, these enfrijoladas are both adaptable and crowd-pleasing. With endless possibilities for ingredients and toppings, you can easily make them your own. Let’s dive into crafting a comforting dish that will make every dinner feel like a fiesta!
Why will you love Enfrijoladas?
Quick Preparation: You can whip these up in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Comfort: The velvety bean sauce creates a rich, satisfying flavor that feels indulgent yet healthy.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite beans or toppings; try black beans, sautéed corn, or even leftover proteins for a unique twist!
A Taste of Tradition: Celebrate the flavors of Mexican cuisine, showcasing comfort in every bite.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for sharing with family or friends, these enfrijoladas guarantee smiles around the table.
Consider pairing them with some fresh salsa or a side salad for an easy meal that packs a punch!
Enfrijoladas Ingredients
• Ready to create delicious enfrijoladas? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Bean Sauce
- Pinto Beans – The star of the dish! They provide protein and a creamy texture, but feel free to swap in black beans for a different taste.
- Bean Broth – Essential for blending the beans smoothly and ensuring the sauce stays moist; chicken or vegetable broth works as a fine substitute.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce – Infuse your sauce with spice and depth—adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
- Salt – Enhances the dish’s overall flavor; chicken bouillon can step in if you’re out of regular salt.
For the Tortillas
- Oil – Use peanut or canola oil for frying the tortillas to golden perfection, helping maintain their structure.
- Corn Tortillas – Vital for this dish; avoid substituting with flour tortillas, as they won’t hold the filling well.
For the Filling
- Queso Fresco – Adds that creamy, cheesy goodness for stuffing; Monterey Jack or vegan cheese are great alternates.
For Toppings
- Onion – Finely diced for a delightful crunch and flavor kick.
- Avocado – Slice it up to add a layer of creamy richness!
- Cilantro – Freshly chopped for that vibrant garnish and freshness.
- Jalapeños – Finely sliced to bring some heat if desired.
Unleash the flavors of Mexico with these ingredients and get ready to savor an unforgettable meal!
How to Make Enfrijoladas
-
Blend the Beans: In a blender, combine pinto beans, bean broth, chipotle peppers, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding more broth if necessary to achieve a creamy texture.
-
Fry the Tortillas: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each corn tortilla for about 1 minute per side until golden brown, then place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
-
Dip and Fill: Take each fried tortilla and dip it into the bean sauce, allowing any excess to drip off. Fill with about 2 tablespoons of queso fresco and fold in half.
-
Keep Warm: As you assemble the enfrijoladas, keep the filled tortillas warm by covering them with foil. Repeat with the remaining tortillas until all are filled.
-
Serve and Garnish: Serve the enfrijoladas topped with diced onion, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and jalapeños for an extra pop of flavor!
Optional: Drizzle with sour cream for an extra touch of creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Enfrijoladas
-
Fridge: Store leftover enfrijoladas in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To maintain freshness, you can cover them with plastic wrap before sealing.
-
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze enfrijoladas for up to 4 months. Wrap each one in foil or use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
-
Reheating: Reheat frozen enfrijoladas in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15 minutes, or microwave for 3-3½ minutes until heated through. Enjoy their delicious warmth revived!
Expert Tips for Enfrijoladas
-
Frying Perfection: Ensure tortillas are fried just enough to be golden and flexible. Over-frying can make them too crispy and difficult to fold.
-
Bean Blending: When blending the beans, start with less broth and gradually add more until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
-
Heat Control: Adjust the chipotle peppers according to your heat preference; remember, it’s easier to add heat than to tone it down if it’s too spicy.
-
Topping Trio: Don’t skimp on toppings! Fresh onion, avocado, and cilantro elevate your enfrijoladas, providing delightful contrast to the creamy bean filling.
-
Custom Fillings: Feel free to experiment with various beans or add cooked proteins for a heartier meal. Each variation brings a unique twist to your enfriijoladas!
What to Serve with Enfrijoladas?
Envelop your dinner table in delightful flavors with the perfect accompaniments that elevate your creamy bean dish to new heights.
-
Cilantro Lime Rice: A bright and zesty side that complements the rich sauce, adding refreshing flavors. The lightness of the rice balances the heartiness of the enfrijoladas beautifully.
-
Fresh Salsa: This vibrant and tangy salsa introduces a burst of freshness that cuts through the creaminess. The contrasting flavors will harmonize wonderfully, making each bite exciting.
-
Guacamole: Silky, creamy, and loaded with flavor, guacamole rounds out the meal with its rich texture. It’s an indulgent pairing that brings out the best in your enfrijoladas.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with spices, these colorful veggies add texture and nutrition, enhancing the meal with their earthy flavors. A simple side of roasted carrots or bell peppers can brighten your plate.
-
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Creamy and slightly smoky, this classic dish delivers an incredible sweetness and depth. Charred kernels contrast with the soft tortillas, making for an unforgettable experience.
-
Margaritas or Horchata: Enjoy a refreshing beverage alongside your meal. The tangy margarita complements the spicy flavors, while horchata offers a creamy sweetness that soothes the palate.
Explore these pairing options to create a delightful Mexican feast around your table where everyone will feel at home!
Make Ahead Options
These Enfrijoladas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy bean sauce up to 48 hours in advance; simply blend the beans and store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can fry the tortillas and keep them wrapped tightly in foil for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just warm the tortillas in a skillet and dip them in the chilled bean sauce, then fill and assemble as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal that feels just as fresh and flavorful as when initially made, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
Enfrijoladas Variations
Get ready to make these delightful enfrijoladas your own with a few simple changes; the options are endless!
- Bean Swap: Use black beans instead of pinto for a heartier flavor and a lovely color contrast.
- Protein Boost: Add leftover chicken or chorizo into the filling for a more filling option that caters to meat lovers.
- Vegan Delight: Substitute queso fresco with a vegan cheese option or simply use nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy flavor.
- Flavor Enhancer: Mix in some sautéed spinach or kale into the bean mixture for added nutrition and a pop of color!
- Sweet Twist: Toss in some sautéed corn for a hint of natural sweetness that complements the spicy beans beautifully.
- Extra Heat: Spice it up more with sliced jalapeños before folding, or serve alongside a spicy salsa for those who love it hot!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh oregano or thyme to the bean mixture for a fragrant twist that elevates traditional flavors to new heights.
- Crunch Factor: Top with crushed tortilla chips for a delightful crunch that contrasts the creaminess of the sauce.
Explore these variations and turn your enfrijoladas into a unique dish every time!
Enfrijoladas Recipe FAQs
What type of beans should I use for enfrijoladas?
Absolutely! Pinto beans are traditional and provide a creamy texture, but you can also use black beans for a different flavor profile. Feel free to mix them up or even add other beans according to your preference!
How should I store leftover enfrijoladas?
You can store leftover enfrijoladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Cover them with plastic wrap before sealing to maintain freshness. Just remember to reheat them thoroughly before serving!
Can I freeze enfrijoladas? How?
Very! To freeze your enfrijoladas, wrap each one tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn. They can stay frozen for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15 minutes, or microwave for about 3-3½ minutes until hot.
What if my bean sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your bean sauce turns out too thick, you can easily adjust it by blending in more broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Aim for a creamy texture that will coat your tortillas nicely—don’t be afraid to experiment a bit!
Are enfrijoladas suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary restrictions or allergies, just ensure that all ingredients, such as the broth and cheese, are suitable for their needs. You can also customize toppings to suit various dietary preferences.
Can I make enfrijoladas ahead of time?
Yes indeed! You can prepare the bean sauce and fry the tortillas ahead of time. Just assemble the enfrijoladas when you’re ready to serve. Keeping everything prepped makes dinner quick and easy while still delivering a fresh and hearty meal!
Delicious Vegetarian Enfrijoladas Ready in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender, combine pinto beans, bean broth, chipotle peppers, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding more broth if necessary.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each corn tortilla for about 1 minute per side until golden brown, then place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Take each fried tortilla and dip it into the bean sauce, allowing any excess to drip off. Fill with about 2 tablespoons of queso fresco and fold in half.
- As you assemble the enfrijoladas, keep the filled tortillas warm by covering them with foil. Repeat with the remaining tortillas until all are filled.
- Serve the enfrijoladas topped with diced onion, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and jalapeños.