Microwaving Cheese Enchiladas: How Long Should You Heat Them?

Cheese enchiladas are a delicious, family-friendly meal that can be made in a microwave in minutes. They are a great option for a quick, tasty, and hassle-free dinner. With a simple recipe, you can have a Mexican feast on the table in no time. So, how long do you need to microwave cheese enchiladas for?

How to prepare the enchiladas for microwaving

Preparing cheese enchiladas for the microwave is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Warm the Tortillas

Use corn tortillas, as they stay nice and firm and are less likely to tear when rolled. Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20-30 seconds until they are soft and pliable. This will ensure they are easy to work with and can be rolled without breaking.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix your desired filling ingredients. Common ingredients include shredded Mexican cheese, Oaxaca cheese, black beans, diced onion, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cumin. You can also add cooked chicken, beef, or pork to make a heartier filling. For a vegetarian option, stick to the cheese and bean base.

Roll the Enchiladas

Place a few tablespoons of the filling onto each tortilla and roll them up tightly. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a microwave-safe dish, such as a baking dish or bowl.

Top with Sauce and Cheese

Pour your chosen enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.

Cover and Microwave

Cover the dish with plastic wrap, parchment paper, or wax paper to prevent splatters and help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the enchiladas are heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the enchiladas from the microwave, uncover, and garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Serve while hot and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!

Preparing cheese enchiladas for the microwave is a simple process that can save you time and effort without sacrificing taste.

How long to microwave for

To cook cheese enchiladas in the microwave, you'll first need to prepare your ingredients and assemble the enchiladas. This includes warming and filling your tortillas, and placing them in a microwave-safe dish.

Once your enchiladas are assembled, cover the dish with plastic wrap, wax paper, or parchment paper to prevent splatters and help steam the enchiladas.

Now you're ready to microwave your cheese enchiladas! The cooking time will depend on the number of enchiladas you're cooking and the wattage of your microwave.

For a single serving of cheese enchiladas (around 3-4 enchiladas), microwave on high for about 2.5 minutes.

For a larger batch of enchiladas (such as a full casserole dish), microwave on high for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the enchiladas are cooked through.

If you're cooking beef and cheese enchiladas, the beef filling will need to be cooked separately before assembling the enchiladas. In this case, the microwave time for the assembled enchiladas will be slightly longer, around 5-6 minutes, followed by an additional 1-2 minutes of cooking time to melt the cheese.

It's important to note that microwave cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on your enchiladas to ensure they don't overcook. Enjoy your delicious and quick microwave cheese enchiladas!

What cheese to use

The best cheese for enchiladas is a blend of cheeses that both melt and stretch, so you get that restaurant-style, cheesy experience.

A Mexican blend of shredded cheese is typically used in restaurant enchiladas. This usually consists of Monterrey Jack, Cheddar or Colby Jack, and cheeses that melt easily such as Asadero and Oaxaca (also known as quesadilla cheese).

You can also use a blend of Monterey Jack, Asadero, and Queso Quesadilla.

Shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted for Mexican cheese blend if desired.

For a melty white cheese, similar to that of American-Mexican restaurants, you can use a blend of white American and Jack cheese.

For a vegetarian option, you can use Greek yoghurt or plain yoghurt instead of cheese.

What tortillas to use

Enchiladas are traditionally made with corn tortillas, which are warmed before being filled and rolled. Corn tortillas are preferred because they hold up better in the sauce, giving the dish a delicious corn flavour. They also stay nice and firm, whereas flour tortillas can become slimy and have an undesirable texture.

If you are short on time, corn tortillas can be warmed in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, wrapped in a damp paper towel. This will make them pliable and less likely to tear when rolling.

However, if you prefer flour tortillas or only have them available, you can use them, but be aware that they may alter the texture of your dish.

For gluten-free options, you can use corn tortillas or gluten-free flour-style tortillas.

Some recommended brands of corn tortillas include Mi Rancho Thincredible Corn Tortillas and Mission brand Super Soft White Corn Tortillas.

What toppings to add

Cheese enchiladas are a simple, tasty, and comforting meal. They are warm, creamy, and cheesy, and the combination of tortillas and cheese is a delight. The great thing about cheese enchiladas is that they are a blank canvas for many different toppings. Here are some ideas for toppings and sides to add to your cheese enchiladas:

Toppings

• Sour Cream — A common topping, sour cream adds a tangy and creamy element to the dish.
• Guacamole — Avocado-based guacamole adds a creamy texture and a fresh, tangy flavour.
• Green Onion — For a bit of colour and a mild onion flavour, sprinkle some chopped green onion on top.
• Cilantro — Fresh cilantro leaves add a bright, herbal flavour.
• Lettuce — Shredded lettuce can add a nice, fresh crunch to the dish.
• Chopped Tomatoes — For a burst of freshness and a juicy texture, add some diced tomatoes.
• Cabbage — Thinly shredded cabbage can add a nice crunch and a healthy boost of vegetables.
• Cotija Cheese — This Mexican cheese is a great topping to add a salty, savoury element.
• Olives — Sliced black olives will add a salty, savoury flavour and a contrasting colour.
• Jalapeños — For those who like it spicy, add some sliced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Red Onion — Diced red onion adds a sharp, pungent flavour and a colourful garnish.

Sides

• Refried Beans — A classic Mexican side dish, refried beans are a hearty and tasty addition.
• Mexican Rice — Spicy and flavourful, Mexican rice is a great side dish to accompany the enchiladas.
• Black Beans — Quick seasoned black beans are a fibre-filled side dish option.
• Cucumber and Black Bean Salad — A refreshing and healthy salad to balance out the richness of the enchiladas.
• Cilantro Lime Rice — This zesty rice dish will complement the enchiladas and add a fresh flavour profile.

Frequently asked questions