Name: Easy Enchilada Cups Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 10 Old El Paso Small Flour Tortillas; 10 oz Old El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce; 14 oz black beans; 4 oz Old El Paso chopped green chiles; 2 cups chicken; ½ cup whole-kernel corn; 1 cup Mexican-blend cheese; ¼ cup fresh cilantro; ¼ cup Green Onions

These easy enchilada cups are a delightful twist on the classic enchilada, perfect for any occasion. Bite-sized and packed with flavor, they make for an ideal appetizer or a fun family dinner.

Photos of Easy Enchilada Cups Recipe

Some ingredients you might not typically have at home include red enchilada sauce, chopped green chiles, and Mexican-blend cheese. These can be found in the international or Hispanic foods aisle at most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Easy Enchilada Cups Recipe

small flour tortillas: The base for our enchilada cups, forming the perfect crispy shell.

red enchilada sauce: Adds a rich, tangy flavor to the filling.

black beans: Provides a hearty, protein-packed element.

chopped green chiles: Gives a mild heat and additional flavor.

chicken: Cooked and shredded for a tender, meaty filling.

whole-kernel corn: Adds a sweet crunch to the mix.

Mexican-blend cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creamy texture and taste.

fresh cilantro: Provides a fresh, vibrant garnish.

green onions: Adds a subtle onion flavor and a burst of color.

One reader, Isaac Rogers says:

These easy enchilada cups are a hit! The flavors blend perfectly, and they are so simple to make. Perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer. My family loved them, and I will definitely be making these again. Highly recommend!

Isaac Rogers

Techniques Required

How to tuck tortillas into muffin cups: Gently pleat the edges of the tortillas to fit snugly inside each cup, ensuring they do not fold too closely into the middle. How to combine ingredients: Mix the enchilada sauce, black beans, green chiles, chicken, and corn together in a large mixing bowl until evenly combined. How to spoon filling into tortilla cups: Carefully spoon the prepared filling into each tortilla cup until it is filled nearly to the brim. How to sprinkle toppings: Evenly sprinkle cilantro and green onions on top of each tortilla cup after baking.

How To Make Easy Enchilada Cups

Our tasteful enchilada cups are filled with tasty beans and tender chicken for a hearty snack! Cook these up in just 30 minutes.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

10Old El Paso Small Flour Tortillas,1 package
10ozOld El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce,1 can
14ozblack beans,1 can, rinsed and drained
4ozOld El Paso chopped green chiles,1 can
2cupschicken,shredded, cooked, or other desired filling
½cupwhole-kernel corn
1cupMexican-blend cheese,shredded
¼cupfresh cilantro,chopped
¼cupgreen onions,thinly sliced

Instructions

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
Tuck each of the tortillas into the cups of a standard-sized muffin pan.
Gently pleat the edges of the tortillas to fit snugly inside each cup, careful not to let the tortillas fold too closely into the middle.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tortilla cups have hardened slightly on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Combine the enchilada sauce, black beans, green chiles, chicken, and corn together in a large mixing bowl.
Toss until evenly combined.
Once the tortilla cups are ready, carefully spoon the filling into each cup until it is filled nearly to the brim.
Place a pinch of cheese on top of each tortilla cup.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the filling is warmed through.
Remove from the oven, and sprinkle the top of each cup evenly with cilantro and green onions.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 367.79kcal
Fat: 10.89g
Saturated Fat: 3.74g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.11g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.08g
Carbohydrates: 48.04g
Fiber: 7.91g
Sugar: 4.94g
Protein: 20.35g
Cholesterol: 31.64mg
Sodium: 580.38mg
Calcium: 189.86mg
Potassium: 767.02mg
Iron: 3.92mg
Vitamin A: 40.91µg
Vitamin C: 29.59mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

When tucking the tortillas into the muffin pan, use a small glass or cup to press them down gently. This helps create a uniform shape and prevents the tortillas from folding too much in the center, ensuring even baking.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Prepare the filling ahead: Mix the enchilada sauce, black beans, green chiles, chicken, and corn the night before to save time on assembly day.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Opt for rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded Mexican-blend cheese to avoid the hassle of grating.

Preheat the oven: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350 degrees f before you start assembling the tortilla cups.

Multi-task: While the tortilla cups are baking, prepare your cilantro and green onions for the final garnish.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Enchilada Cups Recipe

old el paso small flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas provide a different texture and are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
old el paso red enchilada sauce - Substitute with homemade enchilada sauce: Homemade enchilada sauce can be customized to your taste preferences and often contains fewer preservatives.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them an excellent alternative.
old el paso chopped green chiles - Substitute with fresh jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add a similar heat and flavor, and can be chopped to the desired size.
chicken - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef offers a different flavor and texture, providing a hearty alternative to chicken.
whole-kernel corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn is convenient and retains much of the flavor and texture of fresh corn.
mexican-blend cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts well and provides a similar flavor profile, making it a good substitute.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor and can be used as a garnish in place of cilantro.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish in a similar way to green onions.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Create a sturdy base: Use a large white plate to contrast with the vibrant colors of the enchilada cups. Place a small dollop of enchilada sauce in the center to anchor the cups.
Arrange the cups artistically: Position three enchilada cups in a triangular formation on the plate. Ensure they are evenly spaced to create a balanced look.
Add height and texture: Place a small mound of whole-kernel corn and black beans mixture in the center of the triangle to add height and texture to the presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Finely chop fresh cilantro and green onions. Sprinkle them generously over the enchilada cups and the central mound to add a burst of color and freshness.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle additional red enchilada sauce around the plate, creating a decorative pattern that ties the dish together.
Add a touch of elegance: Place a few edible flowers or microgreens around the plate to elevate the presentation and add a touch of sophistication.
Serve with a side: Accompany the enchilada cups with a small ramekin of sour cream or guacamole on the side, allowing diners to customize their bites.
Finish with a flourish: Use a fine grater to sprinkle a light dusting of Mexican-blend cheese over the entire dish, adding a final layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Oven: Used to bake the tortilla cups and melt the cheese on top of the enchilada cups.
Muffin pan: Holds the tortillas in place to form the cups.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the enchilada sauce, black beans, green chiles, chicken, and corn.
Spoon: Helps in filling the tortilla cups with the enchilada mixture.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like cheese, corn, and cilantro.
Knife: Used to chop fresh cilantro and green onions.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to chop the cilantro and green onions.
Oven mitts: Protects your hands when handling the hot muffin pan.
Tongs: Can be used to remove the tortilla cups from the muffin pan without breaking them.
Can opener: Opens cans of black beans and green chiles.
Grater: If you are using a block of cheese instead of pre-shredded, this will help you grate the cheese.

How To Store / Freeze This Dish

Allow the enchilada cups to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the tortillas soggy.
Place the cooled enchilada cups in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
For freezing, wrap each enchilada cup individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they maintain their shape and prevents freezer burn.
Place the wrapped enchilada cups in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat thawed enchilada cups in the oven at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the tortillas are crispy.
For a quick reheat, microwave on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, though the tortillas may not be as crispy as oven-reheated ones.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions after reheating to maintain their vibrant flavor and texture.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This method ensures that your enchilada cups retain their crispy texture and the filling is evenly warmed. Place the enchilada cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the tortillas from over-browning. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
If you're in a hurry, the microwave is your best friend. Place the enchilada cups on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep the tortillas from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Be cautious, as the cheese can get very hot.
For a quick stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the enchilada cups in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even warming. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the tortillas while thoroughly heating the filling.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350 degrees F. Place the enchilada cups in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through. This method will keep the tortillas crispy and the filling hot.
For those who prefer a toaster oven, preheat it to 350 degrees F. Place the enchilada cups on a toaster oven tray. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Heat for about 10-12 minutes or until warmed through.
If you have a steamer, this method can keep the enchilada cups moist. Place the enchilada cups in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes. This method is great for retaining moisture but may soften the tortillas more than other methods.
For a creative twist, you can reheat the enchilada cups on a grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the enchilada cups on a piece of aluminum foil and cover loosely with another piece of foil. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating. This method adds a smoky flavor to the enchilada cups.
If you have a slow cooker, you can reheat multiple enchilada cups at once. Place a layer of aluminum foil at the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking. Arrange the enchilada cups in a single layer. Cover and heat on low for 1-2 hours or until warmed through. This method is perfect for reheating a large batch while keeping them moist.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this recipe is that using muffin pans to create individual enchilada cups not only makes for a unique presentation but also allows for easy portion control. This method ensures that each tortilla cup is perfectly crispy and filled with a balanced mix of ingredients.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The easy enchilada cups recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using flour tortillas, enchilada sauce, black beans, green chiles, chicken, corn, Mexican-blend cheese, cilantro, and green onions, the ingredients are affordable and readily available. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD. This recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for its balance of cost, flavor, and ease of preparation.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for easy enchilada cups is a delightful fusion of flavors, but let's dissect its health quotient.

The use of flour tortillas, while convenient, adds refined carbs which can spike blood sugar levels. The enchilada sauce and cheese contribute to high sodium and saturated fat content. However, the inclusion of black beans, chicken, corn, and fresh vegetables like cilantro and green onions adds a good dose of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

To make this recipe healthier:

Swap flour tortillas for whole wheat or corn tortillas to increase fiber and reduce refined carbs.
Use a low-sodium enchilada sauce to cut down on salt intake.
Opt for reduced-fat cheese or a plant-based cheese alternative to lower saturated fat.
Add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost nutrient density.
Use grilled or baked chicken breast instead of pre-cooked chicken to avoid added preservatives.
Consider using Greek yogurt as a topping instead of extra cheese for added protein and probiotics.

These tweaks will not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add more vibrant flavors and textures to your enchilada cups. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This easy enchilada cups recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The crispy tortilla cups provide a perfect vessel for the savory filling of enchilada sauce, black beans, green chiles, chicken, and corn. The addition of Mexican-blend cheese, fresh cilantro, and green onions adds a vibrant finish. It's a versatile dish that's both visually appealing and delicious, making it ideal for casual gatherings or a fun family dinner. The simplicity of the preparation, combined with the rich, satisfying taste, makes this recipe a winner.

Enhance Your Easy Enchilada Cups Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Mexican Street Corn Salad: Imagine the smoky, charred corn kernels mingling with creamy mayo, tangy lime juice, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. This vibrant salad will bring a burst of flavor and color to your table, perfectly complementing the savory enchilada cups.

Guacamole with Pomegranate Seeds: Guacamole with Pomegranate Seeds: Elevate your classic guacamole by adding a handful of juicy pomegranate seeds. The creamy avocado paired with the sweet and tart pomegranate creates a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds.

Spicy Mango Salsa: Spicy Mango Salsa: This zesty salsa combines ripe, juicy mangoes with fiery jalapeños, crisp red onions, and a splash of lime juice. The sweet heat of this salsa will add a refreshing kick to your enchilada cups.

Chilled Avocado Soup: Chilled Avocado Soup: A silky smooth avocado soup served cold, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of cilantro. This creamy, refreshing soup is the perfect way to start your meal and balance the rich flavors of the enchilada cups.

Churros with Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Churros with Chocolate Dipping Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy, golden churros dusted with cinnamon sugar. Dip them into a luscious chocolate sauce for a dessert that is both indulgent and irresistible.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This

Mini Taco Cups: Transform your taco night into a fun and bite-sized experience with these Mini Taco Cups. Using ground beef, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and a medley of fresh vegetables, these cups are perfect for any gathering.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Bites: Enjoy the flavors of classic stuffed bell peppers in a convenient, appetizer-sized form. These Stuffed Bell Pepper Bites are filled with ground turkey, quinoa, tomato sauce, and topped with mozzarella cheese.

Chicken Quesadilla Rolls: Roll up your favorite quesadilla ingredients into a crispy, handheld treat. These Chicken Quesadilla Rolls feature shredded chicken, bell peppers, onions, and a blend of Mexican cheeses.

Southwest Egg Rolls: Packed with black beans, corn, chicken, and Monterey Jack cheese, these Southwest Egg Rolls are a fusion of flavors wrapped in a crispy shell. Serve with avocado ranch for a delightful dipping experience.

Loaded Nacho Cups: Take your nachos to the next level with these Loaded Nacho Cups. Each cup is filled with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, jalapeños, and topped with melted cheese and sour cream.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts

Main Courses:

Chicken Fajita Bowls: Chicken Fajita Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful option for a main course. Start by marinating chicken breast in a mix of lime juice, garlic, and spices. Sauté the chicken with bell peppers and onions until everything is tender and caramelized. Serve over a bed of cilantro-lime rice and top with fresh avocado slices, pico de gallo, and a dollop of sour cream. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with a variety of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Beef Enchilada Casserole: Beef Enchilada Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings all the flavors of traditional enchiladas into a convenient casserole form. Brown ground beef with onions and garlic, then mix in enchilada sauce and black beans. Layer corn tortillas in a baking dish, followed by the beef mixture and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous amount of cheese on top. Bake until bubbly and golden, then garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent treat that oozes with rich, molten chocolate as soon as you cut into it. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a luxurious experience. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, and garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate center and the cold, creamy ice cream will leave your guests in awe.

Lemon Meringue Pie: For a refreshing end to your meal, consider a zesty creation that combines a tangy lemon filling with a light, airy meringue. This dessert is a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a citrusy twist. Serve it chilled, and add a few lemon zest curls on top for an extra burst of flavor. The crisp crust and fluffy meringue will make this a memorable treat.

Why trust this Easy Enchilada Cups Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it combines the convenience of Old El Paso small flour tortillas with the rich flavors of red enchilada sauce, black beans, and chopped green chiles. The addition of chicken and whole-kernel corn ensures a hearty filling, while the Mexican-blend cheese melts perfectly for a delicious finish. Topped with fresh cilantro and green onions, these enchilada cups are both visually appealing and packed with flavor. Trust this recipe for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

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FAQ:

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, you can definitely use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they might be a bit more fragile, so handle them with care when tucking them into the muffin pan.

Can I make these enchilada cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and the tortilla cups separately ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and assemble and bake them when you're ready to serve.

What can I use as a substitute for chicken?

You can use shredded beef, pork, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or extra beans. The recipe is pretty flexible, so feel free to get creative.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover enchilada cups in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze these enchilada cups?

Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to eat, reheat them in the oven until they're hot and the cheese is melted.