Welcome to the world of flavors where we are going to embark on a journey to create some delicious shrimp enchiladas. This dish is filled with succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection, loaded with rich Monterey Jack cheese, and wrapped in soft flour tortillas. Layered with chunky tomato salsa and a dollop of sour cream, this dish is a treat for your taste buds.
While most of the ingredients like shrimp, flour tortillas, Monterey Jack Cheese, cooking oil, salt, black pepper, and sour cream are commonly found in households, some ingredients such as black beans and chunky tomato salsa might need a trip to the supermarket. The black beans provide a high protein content to the dish while the chunky tomato salsa adds a tangy twist. Make sure to pick up fresh chives as well, as they add a subtle hint of onion flavor to the enchiladas.
Ingredients for Delicious Shrimp Enchiladas
Cooking oil: Used to sauté the shrimp as well as to brown the enchiladas.
Medium shrimp: The star of the dish, cooked to perfection, brings a sea of flavor.
Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the shrimp.
Flour tortillas: Used as wrappers for the enchiladas, they hold all the flavorful fillings inside.
Black beans: These add a lot of protein and fiber to the dish.
Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese is mild and melts easily, making it perfect for enchiladas.
Chunky tomato salsa: Adds tanginess and binds all the flavors together.
Sour cream: It provides a rich, creamy contrast to the spicy and tangy flavors in the dish.
Fresh chives: They add a delicate onion-like flavor, adding a layer of complexity to the enchiladas.
One reader, Artur Brogan says:
This shrimp enchiladas recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the dish is so easy to make. The combination of shrimp, cheese, and salsa is simply divine. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a guaranteed hit with friends and family.
Techniques Required for Making Shrimp Enchiladas
How to cook the shrimp: In a large heavy frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over moderately high heat. Sprinkle the shrimp with the salt and pepper, then cook, stirring, until just done, about 4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan.
How to assemble the enchiladas: Lay the tortillas on a work surface and cover half of each with the black beans. Top with the cheese and then the cooked shrimp. Fold the tortillas in half.
How to brown the enchiladas: In the frying pan, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil over moderately high heat. Add four enchiladas and brown, about 30 seconds per side. Put on a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven. Repeat with the remaining enchiladas.
How to soften the enchiladas: Drain the oil from the frying pan and then return four of the enchiladas to the pan. Put the rest in a second frying pan. Over moderate heat, add half the salsa to each pan and cook until the tortillas are slightly softened, turning once, about 2 minutes in all.
How to serve the enchiladas: Serve the enchiladas topped with dollops of sour cream and the chives.
How To Make Shrimp Enchiladas
Baked with chunky tomato sauce, these shrimp enchiladas are packed with cheese and beans, plus sour cream topping for a filling, savory dish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4tbspcooking oil
- 1lbmedium shrimp
- ¼tspsalt
- 1tspfresh-ground black pepper
- 8flour tortillas,(6-inch)
- 1canblack beans
- ¼lbMonterey Jack cheese
- 1jarchunky tomato salsa
- ½cupsour cream
- 2tspfresh chives,chopped, or scallion tops
Instructions
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Heat the oven to 250 degrees F. Cover a baking sheet with paper towels.
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In a large heavy frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over moderately high heat.
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Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and pepper. Put the shrimp in the pan and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring, until just done. Remove the shrimp from the pan.
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Lay the tortillas on a work surface. Cover half of each with the beans. Top with the cheese and then the shrimp. Fold the tortillas in half.
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In the frying pan, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil over moderately high heat. Add 4 enchiladas and brown for about 30 seconds per side.
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Put on the baking sheet and keep warm in the oven. Repeat with the remaining enchiladas.
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Drain the oil from the frying pan and then return four of the enchiladas to the pan. Put the rest in a second frying pan.
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Over moderate heat, add half the salsa to each pan and cook for about 2 minutes in all until the tortillas are slightly softened, turning once.
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Serve the enchiladas topped with dollops of sour cream and chives.
Nutrition
- Calories: 791.48kcal
- Fat: 37.37g
- Saturated Fat: 11.37g
- Trans Fat: 0.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 16.79g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.16g
- Carbohydrates: 76.64g
- Fiber: 12.18g
- Sugar: 8.31g
- Protein: 39.29g
- Cholesterol: 183.06mg
- Sodium: 2502.98mg
- Calcium: 540.23mg
- Potassium: 994.66mg
- Iron: 6.37mg
- Vitamin A: 196.43µg
- Vitamin C: 5.67mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Shrimp Enchiladas
When cooking the shrimp, ensure they are not overcooked as they can become tough and lose their succulent flavor. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes. They change from a translucent gray to a pinkish-opaque color when done. Also, when adding the salsa to the enchiladas in the pan, be sure to do so gently to avoid breaking the tortillas.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shrimp Enchiladas
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, grate cheese, and cook proteins in advance to save time during the recipe preparation.
Use store-bought shortcuts: Utilize pre-cooked shrimp or pre-made salsa to cut down on prep time and make the recipe more convenient.
One-pan cooking: Consider using one pan for multiple steps, such as cooking the shrimp and assembling the enchiladas, to minimize cleanup and save time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of enchiladas and freeze the extras for quick and easy meals in the future.
Efficient assembly: Set up a workstation with all ingredients and tools within reach to streamline the assembly process and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp Enchiladas Recipe
cooking oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for cooking oil in this recipe.
medium shrimp - Substitute with chopped cooked chicken: Chopped cooked chicken can be used as a delicious alternative to shrimp, providing a different flavor and texture to the enchiladas.
salt - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a type of soy sauce, can be used as a substitute for salt to add a savory umami flavor to the dish.
fresh-ground black pepper - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a rich, smoky flavor to the dish, similar to black pepper but with a unique twist.
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used as a gluten-free alternative to flour tortillas, adding a slightly different texture and flavor to the enchiladas.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans can be used as a substitute for black beans, providing a similar creamy texture and earthy flavor to the dish.
monterey jack cheese - Substitute with queso fresco: Queso fresco can be used as a substitute for Monterey Jack cheese, adding a crumbly texture and a slightly tangy flavor to the enchiladas.
chunky tomato salsa - Substitute with roasted tomatillo salsa: Roasted tomatillo salsa can be used to add a tangy and slightly smoky flavor to the enchiladas, providing a delicious alternative to tomato salsa.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream, providing a creamy and tangy element to the dish.
fresh chives - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used to add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the enchiladas, providing a different aromatic element to the dish.
Best Way to Present Delicious Shrimp Enchiladas
Elevate the enchiladas with a stunning presentation: When plating the enchiladas, carefully arrange them on the plate, ensuring they are neatly folded and positioned. Consider using a circular motion to create a visually appealing arrangement.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce a pop of color to the plate by garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro and sliced red chili. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a layer of complexity to the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of the dollops of sour cream and fresh chives. Each element should be meticulously positioned to create a balanced and visually striking presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the enchiladas to stand out. This will draw attention to the dish and highlight its exquisite flavors.
Incorporate elegant drizzling: Consider adding a delicate drizzle of salsa around the plate to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation. This technique can elevate the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Emphasize the use of high-quality serveware: Select elegant, minimalist plates that complement the vibrant colors of the enchiladas. The right serveware can enhance the overall dining experience and leave a lasting impression.
Essential Tools for Making Shrimp Enchiladas
- Cooking oil: Used for frying and sautéing ingredients.
- Heavy frying pan: Ideal for cooking the shrimp and enchiladas evenly.
- Baking sheet: Used to drain and keep the enchiladas warm in the oven.
- Paper towels: Placed on the baking sheet to absorb excess oil from the enchiladas.
- Work surface: Provides a clean area for assembling the enchiladas.
- Frying pan: Used for browning the enchiladas and heating the salsa.
- Oven: Used to keep the enchiladas warm and to slightly soften them with the salsa.
- Tongs: Used for flipping and handling the enchiladas while browning.
- Spatula: Helps in flipping and serving the enchiladas.
Storing and Freezing Shrimp Enchiladas
To store leftover shrimp enchiladas, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing in an airtight container or wrapping tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the enchiladas. Wrap each enchilada individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated enchiladas, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the tortillas may become slightly soggy.
To reheat frozen enchiladas, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the enchiladas from the freezer and unwrap them from the plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30-40 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If the enchiladas are still frozen in the center, you may need to increase the baking time.
If you have leftover salsa or sour cream, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salsa will keep for up to 1 week, while the sour cream will last for about 7-10 days.
How To Reheat Leftover Shrimp Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for reheating enchiladas without drying them out or making them soggy.
Remove the leftover enchiladas from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them reheat more evenly and prevent cold spots.
Arrange the enchiladas in a baking dish. If you have any leftover salsa or sour cream, you can spoon a little over the top of each enchilada to help keep them moist during reheating.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will trap the heat and steam, helping the enchiladas reheat more efficiently and preventing them from drying out.
Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of your enchiladas, as well as how cold they were to begin with.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual enchiladas in the microwave. Place one or two enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can make the tortillas tough and rubbery.
Once the enchiladas are heated through, remove the baking dish from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the enchiladas to set up slightly, making them easier to handle and eat.
Garnish the reheated enchiladas with fresh chives, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese, if desired. Serve them hot and enjoy your delicious, perfectly reheated shrimp enchiladas!
Interesting Fact About Shrimp Enchiladas
The shrimp enchiladas recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Is Making Shrimp Enchiladas at Home Cost-Effective?
This shrimp enchiladas recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main cost lies in the shrimp and cheese, but the dish can feed a family of four at an approximate cost of $25. The use of affordable ingredients like black beans and flour tortillas balances the overall cost. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, earning a solid 8/10 rating. With a few tweaks, such as buying cooked shrimp or using alternative seafood like crawfish tails, the cost-effectiveness can be further optimized.
Are Shrimp Enchiladas Healthy or Unhealthy?
The shrimp enchiladas recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of cooking oil, which adds extra calories and fat to the dish.
- Flour tortillas are typically made from refined flour, lacking in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
- Monterey jack cheese is relatively high in saturated fat and sodium.
- Sour cream, although used in moderation, also contributes additional saturated fat and calories.
However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as shrimp (a lean protein source) and black beans (rich in fiber and plant-based protein).
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of cooking oil used or opt for a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil.
- Replace flour tortillas with whole grain or corn tortillas for added fiber and nutrients.
- Use a reduced-fat monterey jack cheese or substitute with a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella.
- Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, which offers a similar tangy flavor but with less fat and more protein.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the filling, such as sautéed bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to increase the nutrient density of the dish.
- Serve the enchiladas with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal and add more fiber and vitamins.
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of shrimp enchiladas that still satisfies your taste buds.
Editor's Thoughts on This Shrimp Enchiladas Recipe
The shrimp enchiladas recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy black beans, and gooey Monterey Jack cheese wrapped in a soft flour tortilla creates a harmonious blend. The chunky tomato salsa adds a zesty kick, while the dollops of sour cream and fresh chives provide a refreshing finish. The cooking process is straightforward, allowing for easy preparation. The suggestion of using crawfish tails or pre-cooked shrimp offers versatility. This dish pairs well with a cold rosé, enhancing the dining experience. Overall, this recipe is a tantalizing treat for seafood and Mexican cuisine enthusiasts.
Enhance Your Shrimp Enchiladas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Shrimp Enchiladas
Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Shrimp Enchiladas
Why trust this Shrimp Enchiladas Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with its succulent shrimp, flavorful salsa, and creamy sour cream. The combination of black beans and Monterey Jack cheese adds a rich and satisfying texture, while the use of fresh chives enhances the overall aroma and taste. The careful cooking process ensures that the shrimp is perfectly tender and seasoned, making this dish a trustworthy choice for a delicious enchiladas meal.
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