Stacked Enchiladas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and for good reason. They are delicious, filling, and versatile. There are many different types of enchiladas, but one that stands out is the stacked enchilada. In this article, we will explore what makes stacked enchiladas so special and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make them at home. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about this classic dish. Let’s get started!
What have Stacked Enchiladas?
Stacked enchiladas, also known as enchiladas montadas, are a variation of traditional enchiladas. Unlike traditional enchiladas that are rolled and placed in a baking dish, stacked enchiladas are assembled on the plate. They are made by layering corn tortillas, filling, and sauce, then topped with cheese and baked until bubbly.
What Makes Stacked Enchiladas Special?
One of the things that make stacked enchiladas special is their presentation. When assembled on the plate, they create a beautiful and impressive dish that is perfect for entertaining. They are also customizable, allowing you to use your favorite filling and sauce combinations. Another benefit of stacked enchiladas is that they are typically less messy to eat than traditional enchiladas, making them a great option for kids and those who are new to Mexican cuisine.
How to Make Stacked Enchiladas?
Ingredients:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or chicken until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- To assemble the stacked enchiladas, start by placing one corn tortilla on a plate. Spoon some of the meat or chicken on top of the tortilla, followed by a spoonful of the tomato sauce. Repeat with another tortilla, meat or chicken, and sauce until you have a stack of 3-4 tortillas.
- Top the stack with a generous amount of shredded cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas, meat or chicken, sauce, and cheese to make 3-4 stacks.
- Place the stacks in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the stacked enchiladas hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and sour cream, if desired.
Conclusion
In conclusion, stacked enchiladas are delicious and versatile dishes that can be customized to suit any taste preference. Whether you prefer them spicy or mild, with meat or vegetarian, there are endless possibilities for creating a stacked enchilada recipe that you and your family will love.
By adhering to the steps mentioned in this article and trying out diverse ingredients and flavor combinations, you can effortlessly prepare stacked enchiladas that are on par with restaurant quality, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and seasonings. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to make the perfect stacked enchiladas every time.
So why not try making stacked enchiladas for your next family dinner or gathering? They’re sure to be a hit, and with so many options for customization, you can’t go wrong.
Thank you for reading this article, and we hope that it has inspired you to try making stacked enchiladas for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between stacked enchiladas and traditional enchiladas?
Stacked enchiladas are assembled by layering tortillas and filling, whereas traditional enchiladas are rolled. Stacked enchiladas are typically thicker and heartier.
Can I make stacked enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, stacked enchiladas can be assembled and refrigerated for up to a day before baking.
Can stacked enchiladas be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze stacked enchiladas before baking. Make sure to cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
How do I prevent my stacked enchiladas from getting soggy?
Make sure to use a thick, sturdy sauce to layer between the tortillas. You can also lightly toast the tortillas before assembling them to prevent them from getting too soggy.
Can I make stacked enchiladas vegetarian?
Yes, stacked enchiladas can easily be made vegetarian by using a combination of vegetables, beans, and cheese as the filling. You can also use meat substitutes such as tofu or tempeh.
