El Chico Style Cheese Enchiladas with Red Chile Sauce
These restaurant-style cheese enchiladas feature corn tortillas filled with American cheese and topped with a rich red chile sauce made from chili powder and paprika. The homemade sauce starts with a flour roux for thickness and develops deep flavor through careful layering of spices. Perfect for family dinners or Mexican food nights, this version captures the essence of Tex-Mex comfort food with its generous cheese filling and vibrant sauce that bakes to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chili powder
- ½ cup paprika
- 1 quart water
- 12 corn tortillas
- oil, for heating tortillas
- ¾ pound American cheese, shredded
- ⅓ cup white onions, chopped(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine vegetable oil and flour in medium pot and cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- 2
Add salt, chili powder, and paprika and stir to combine
- 3
Add water gradually in quarters, stirring until sauce thickens between additions
- 4
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
- 5
Heat corn tortillas in microwave with water and dishtowel or in skillet with oil
- 6
Spread thin layer of sauce over bottom of baking dish
- 7
Place cheese in center of each tortilla and roll up
- 8
Arrange rolled tortillas in baking dish and top with remaining sauce and cheese
- 9
Bake for 15 minutes until cheese melts
- 10
Remove from oven and top with chopped onion if desired
Tips
Heat tortillas properly to prevent cracking - sprinkle with water and wrap in damp towel for microwave method
Add water gradually to sauce to prevent lumps and ensure smooth consistency
Use room temperature cheese for easier rolling and more even melting
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
Can assemble enchiladas and sauce separately up to 1 day ahead
Serve hot with Mexican rice, refried beans, and sour cream
Common Mistakes
Don't skip heating tortillas or they will crack when rolling
Add water gradually to sauce to avoid lumps
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Mexican cheese blend work well. Use same amount and grate fresh for best melting.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add water gradually, one tablespoon at a time, while stirring until you reach desired consistency. Sauce should coat spoon but pour easily.
How long do leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.