Black Bean Enchiladas

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! These Black Bean Enchiladas are not only bursting with flavor but also super easy to make. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and delicious, or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy. With a delightful filling of black beans, corn, onions, and bell peppers, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!

What makes these enchiladas truly special is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste or dietary needs while still enjoying that classic Mexican comfort food vibe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness and colorful filling, so it’s a hit at the dinner table.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with black beans and veggies, these enchiladas are as nutritious as they are tasty.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare them in advance and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Delicious Leftovers: If there are any leftovers (which is rare!), they reheat wonderfully for lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients should be simple and fun! Here’s what you need to make these tasty Black Bean Enchiladas. All of these ingredients are wholesome and easy to find at your local grocery store.

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 (15-oz) can BUSH’S black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-oz) can yellow corn, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

For Assembly

• 2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese (divided)
• 8 (8-inch) flour tortillas (also called soft-taco size)
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (divided)

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream
• Cilantro
• Diced avocados

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative or adapt based on what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some sliced mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
• Change the Cheese: Try using a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan twist.
• Swap the Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option!

How to Make Black Bean Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that the enchiladas will bake evenly and come out bubbly and delicious.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic first and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add in the diced onions and green bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for around 8 minutes until they’re softened and translucent. This step brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in those hearty black beans and sweet corn! Stir in the kosher salt, ground cumin, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook everything together while stirring occasionally for about 3 minutes until heated through. The spices will give your filling an amazing flavor boost.

Step 4: Mix with Enchilada Sauce

Take 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce and mix it into your cooked filling until everything is well combined. Removing this mixture from heat allows those flavors to meld beautifully together. Be sure to taste it – you can always adjust with more salt if needed!

Step 5: Warm Up Tortillas

To make rolling easier, microwave your tortillas on a plate for about 1 minute. Flip them halfway through so they warm evenly; this makes them pliable and prevents tearing when you fill them.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Dish

Pour 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce into a 9×13 baking dish. Spread it around so it coats the bottom—this prevents sticking and adds flavor right from the start!

Step 7: Assemble Enchiladas

Time for assembly! Take each tortilla and fill it evenly with your black bean mixture along with about 3/4 cup of shredded cheese. Roll each one tightly closed seam side down into your baking dish.

Step 8: Top with Sauce & Cheese

Once all enchiladas are snugly placed in the dish, pour the remaining 1 1/2 cups of enchilada sauce over them. Sprinkle with the rest of that gooey cheese on top—this will melt beautifully in the oven!

Step 9: Bake & Serve

Bake your enchiladas for about 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top. Serve immediately with optional toppings like sour cream, fresh cilantro, or diced avocados for that extra touch of yumminess.

Enjoy every bite of these comforting Black Bean Enchiladas—they’re sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Black Bean Enchiladas

Making delicious Black Bean Enchiladas is all about the little details, and these tips will help you create a truly delightful dish that your family will love!

• Use fresh ingredients: Utilizing fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor and texture of your enchiladas, making them more vibrant and enjoyable.

• Warm your tortillas: Heating the tortillas ensures they are pliable and less likely to crack when rolling, leading to beautifully formed enchiladas that hold together perfectly.

• Experiment with cheese: While a Mexican-blend cheese works wonderfully, trying different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack can add a unique twist to the flavor profile of your dish.

• Make it spicy: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the filling for an extra kick that complements the black beans nicely.

• Prep ahead of time: You can assemble the enchiladas a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just cover them with plastic wrap in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinnertime so much easier!

How to Serve Black Bean Enchiladas

Presenting your Black Bean Enchiladas beautifully can make your meal feel extra special. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color, brightening up each bite.
• Diced avocados: Creamy avocado pieces provide a lovely contrast in texture and rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the enchiladas.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream on top offers a tangy balance to the dish, making every bite indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Mexican rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices adds a hearty element that complements the enchiladas perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Refried beans: Creamy refried beans provide an additional protein source while enhancing the Mexican theme of your dinner.
• Grilled corn salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime juice and diced peppers brings brightness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the enchiladas.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast and keeps things feeling fresh.

These garnishes and side dishes will help you create a delightful presentation while ensuring that your Black Bean Enchiladas are an unforgettable family favorite! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Black Bean Enchiladas are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, so you always have a satisfying dinner ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Once cooled, transfer leftover enchiladas to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep the enchiladas from getting soggy, place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing

• Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for your reference!

Reheating

• For refrigerated enchiladas, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to retain moisture. Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen enchiladas, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. If baking from frozen, increase baking time to about 30-35 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these Black Bean Enchiladas, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use whole wheat tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas will work just as well and add extra fiber. Just ensure they are warm and pliable before assembling.

How can I make my Black Bean Enchiladas spicier?

To add some heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños into the filling or using a spicier enchilada sauce. You can also serve them with hot sauce on the side for an additional kick!

Can I make Black Bean Enchiladas without cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cheese with a dairy-free alternative or simply omit it entirely. For added flavor, consider adding more spices or toppings like avocados or fresh cilantro.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Black Bean Enchiladas as much as I do! They’re not just a meal; they’re a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re preparing them for a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Happy cooking!