Cream Cheese Enchiladas

You'll be the life of the party when you serve up these creamy enchiladas. While the rich, indulgent filling may seem decadent, the right ingredients can make this dish a nutritious addition to any menu. Discover how cream cheese can elevate the flavors of traditional Mexican fare and leave your guests craving more.

History

Although the origins of cream cheese enchiladas are unclear, they're believed to have emerged as a regional variation of traditional Mexican enchiladas.

This fusion dish is a reflection of the culinary evolution of Mexican cuisine, where local ingredients and techniques have been adapted and combined in novel ways.

Cream cheese, a staple in American kitchens, likely found its way into enchilada fillings as Mexican-American communities experimented with new flavor profiles.

Today, cream cheese enchiladas have become a beloved part of the diverse tapestry of Mexican-inspired dishes, showcasing the dynamic and adaptive nature of this rich culinary tradition.

Recipe

Cream Cheese Enchiladas are a delightful twist on the classic Mexican dish. These enchiladas feature a creamy, tangy filling wrapped in warm tortillas and baked to perfection. The combination of cream cheese, green chiles, and spices creates a flavor that's both comforting and exciting.

Preparing these enchiladas is a straightforward process that can be easily mastered. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of assembly, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 12 corn or flour tortillas
• 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, sour cream, garlic powder, ground cumin, and chili powder. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly onto the tortillas and roll them up tightly. Place the filled tortillas seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Pour the enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

To guarantee the best results, be sure to let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing the filling. This will make it easier to spread and create a smooth, creamy texture.

Additionally, don't be afraid to adjust the spices to your personal taste preferences. Feel free to add more or less of the chili powder and cumin to suit your palate.

Nutritional Guide

While cream cheese enchiladas may be a delightful indulgence, you'll want to enjoy them in moderation. A single serving contains around 400 calories, primarily from the cream cheese and tortillas.

That said, the ingredients do offer some nutritional benefits. The cheese provides calcium and protein, while the vegetables and herbs bring antioxidants and fiber.

To keep your portion sizes in check, consider pairing the enchiladas with a fresh salad or roasted veggies. Moderation is key, as these rich, creamy enchiladas are best savored occasionally as part of an overall balanced diet.

Final Thought

Whipping up these enchiladas can be a delightful indulgence, but it's important to keep an eye on portion sizes. With the rich cream cheese and bold flavor combinations, a little goes a long way.

Try pairing the enchiladas with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal. When cooking, experiment with different spices and toppings to find your perfect flavor profile.