I remember the incredible warmth of Nana Betty’s kitchen on Sunday afternoons. The air was thick with the scent of dried chilies and simmering meat. That scent always meant enchiladas were coming. My little brother, Justin, and I would watch her roll the tortillas, each one a neat, perfect little package. She taught me that making enchiladas is an act of love, not just cooking.
Nana Betty made Tex Mex enchiladas and her rich, authentic enchilada sauce recipe from scratch. Today, I realize that every enchilada tells a story — from cheesy baked classics to regional specialties bursting with flavor. In this guide, I’ll share the family secrets and break down the 8 amazing types of enchiladas you need to try.
1. Beef and Cheese Enchiladas: The Midwest Favorite
Beef and cheese enchiladas are the king of comforting weeknight meals. This dish guarantees family applause every single time. A rich chili gravy coats the tender ground beef, perfectly balanced with melted cheese.
The secret? Mastering the rolling technique and using just the right amount of creamy filling. Add a touch of cream cheese for that extra decadence — a trick I learned from Nana Betty.
Click to read the full recipe here: How to Make Beef and Cheese Enchiladas
2. Authentic Enchilada Sauce (Red): The Heart of Every Recipe
The sauce is the soul of an enchilada. This traditional red enchilada sauce is made with dried chilies, not tomato paste. The result is deep, earthy, and beautifully complex.
I personally love the layers of flavor from ancho and guajillo peppers — it’s a little smoky, a little spicy, and totally authentic.
Click to read the full recipe here: Authentic Enchilada Sauce Recipe
3. Green Enchilada Sauce: Tangy and Fresh
If you prefer a tangy, lighter taste, green enchilada sauce is your best friend. Made with roasted tomatillos, fresh green chilies, and cilantro, this sauce brings a burst of freshness to every bite.
It’s perfect for chicken or vegetable enchiladas, balancing the richness of cheese with bright acidity.
Click to read the full recipe here: Green Enchilada Sauce Recipe
4. Sour Cream Enchilada Sauce (White): The Creamy Comfort
When you crave something mild and velvety, the white sour cream enchilada sauce delivers. This sauce uses sour cream, broth, and a touch of butter to create a smooth, rich base that hugs every tortilla.
It’s comfort food perfection — warm, creamy, and irresistibly mild.
Click to read the full recipe here: Sour Cream Enchilada Sauce Recipe
5. Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas: The Family’s All-Time Favorite
A bubbling pan of cheesy chicken enchiladas never lasts long at my dinner table. This dish is my go-to for weeknights when time is tight but flavor still matters.
Leftover rotisserie chicken, red sauce, and melted cheese — that’s all you need. For a quicker twist, try the cheesy chicken enchilada bake version.
Click to read the full recipe here: Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
6. White Chicken Enchiladas: The Creamy Twist
The white chicken enchiladas recipe is pure indulgence. The creamy sour cream sauce pairs beautifully with shredded chicken and Monterey Jack cheese.
My daughter Illi always asks for these — they’re mild, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth good. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but takes less than 30 minutes.
Click to read the full recipe here: Recipe for White Chicken Enchiladas
7. Tex Mex Enchiladas: Bold and Border-Inspired
Tex Mex enchiladas are where the border’s heart meets comfort food heaven. These enchiladas use a thick, chili-based gravy and bold spices.
You’ll often find them filled with beef, smothered in yellow cheese, and baked until bubbly. It’s the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the deep, spicy richness of Southern cooking.
Click to read the full recipe here: Tex Mex Enchiladas Recipe
8. Chicken Enchilada Burrito: The Hybrid Star
People often confuse burritos and enchiladas — and this hybrid proves why. The chicken enchilada burrito combines the creamy enchilada filling with the hand-held convenience of a burrito.
Wrapped in a flour tortilla but drenched in enchilada sauce, it’s a fusion that satisfies both comfort and craving.
Click to read the full recipe here: Chicken Enchilada Burrito Recipe
Enchiladas Calories: A Quick Breakdown
Calories vary by sauce and filling. For a lighter option, go for chicken or vegetarian enchiladas.
Here’s a quick look:
| Type | Estimated Calories (2 enchiladas) | Main Calorie Source |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese Enchiladas | 480–550 | Cheese, oil |
| Chicken Enchiladas (Red Sauce) | 350–420 | Chicken, cheese |
| Beef Enchiladas | 420–500 | Ground beef, cheese |
| White Chicken Enchiladas | 500–580 | Sour cream sauce |
Tip: Use corn tortillas and light cheese for a healthier spin without losing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the crucial difference between red and green enchilada sauce?
The essential difference is the chili used. Red sauce uses dried, ripe red chilies, like Ancho or Guajillo. Conversely, green sauce uses fresh green tomatillos. This gives it a unique, tangy flavor.
Do I need to fry the tortillas for the cheesy chicken enchiladas recipe?
Frying the tortillas is not essential, but it is highly recommended. Specifically, a quick 10-second fry softens the corn tortillas. Consequently, this prevents them from breaking when you roll them.
What should I look for when choosing a Siete Enchilada Sauce?
When buying a ready-made sauce like Siete Enchilada Sauce, look for simple ingredients. Furthermore, choose a brand with low sodium and no added sugar. This ensures a delicious and authentic base.
What makes the beef and cheese enchiladas so massive in the Midwest?
The popularity stems from the Tex Mex influence and the use of chili gravy. Specifically, this richer sauce compliments the ground beef perfectly. Consequently, it evolved into a beloved comfort food.
Earthy Savor Lab
The amazing flavor of enchiladas comes from the dried chili peppers. These peppers contain capsaicinoids. Capsaicinoids are powerful compounds that create the sensation of heat. Furthermore, the heat response triggers the release of endorphins. This creates a delightful, almost addictive pleasure. The traditional corn tortilla is also essential. It provides fiber and complex carbohydrates. Consequently, the entire dish is not just delicious but also provides sustained energy.