This shrimp enchilada recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the succulent taste of shrimp with the comforting warmth of enchiladas. The recipe is relatively straightforward, resulting in a satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend gathering. This detailed guide will walk you through each step, from ingredient preparation to baking instructions, ensuring a successful outcome every time. The nutritional profile is balanced, offering a good source of protein and other essential nutrients. Mastering this recipe opens the door to culinary creativity, allowing for various adaptations and flavor combinations.

The preparation of this dish involves several key steps, each contributing to its unique character. Careful attention to the sauce’s consistency and the shrimp’s cooking ensures optimal flavor development. The enchiladas’ baking process requires precise timing to achieve the perfect balance of crispy tortillas and a tender, flavorful filling. This recipe is designed for both novice and experienced cooks, offering clear instructions and guidance at every stage. The detailed approach allows for consistent results, and the adaptable nature of the recipe enables culinary exploration and personalization.

The versatility of this recipe lies in its adaptability; various ingredients can be substituted or added to tailor the dish to individual preferences and dietary needs. Experimentation with different types of cheese, spices, or vegetables can create unique variations, each maintaining the core deliciousness of the original shrimp enchilada recipe.

Ingredients for this Enchilada Recipe

• 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
• 1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions for Making this Enchilada Recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the shrimp mixture and 1-2 tablespoons of cheese.
6. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Pour remaining sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for this Enchilada Recipe

This shrimp enchilada recipe requires approximately 45 minutes of preparation and cooking time, yielding 6 generous servings. The table below summarizes this information.

Nutritional Information of this Enchilada Recipe

This recipe provides a balanced nutritional profile. The shrimp offers a lean protein source, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals. The cheese adds calcium and fat, creating a satisfying and relatively healthy meal. Precise nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients used, portion size, and cooking method. However, its safe to say this recipe provides a good balance of macronutrients.

The following table offers estimated nutritional information per serving. These values are approximate and should be considered a guideline only. For precise analysis, utilize a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.

Tips for Cooking this Enchilada Recipe

Following these tips will enhance the overall quality and taste of the dish.

1. Use high-quality ingredients:

   The flavor of the enchiladas is directly influenced by the quality of the ingredients. Opt for fresh, flavorful shrimp and high-quality cheese for optimal results. Using fresh herbs and spices also enhances the overall taste and aroma profile.

2. Don’t overcook the shrimp:

   Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook the shrimp just until it’s opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking by properly monitoring the temperature and time.

3. Warm the tortillas:

   Warming the tortillas before filling them makes them more pliable and prevents them from breaking. This can be achieved by briefly microwaving or heating them in a dry skillet.

4. Use a good quality enchilada sauce:

   The enchilada sauce forms the foundation of the flavor profile. A high-quality sauce, whether homemade or store-bought, significantly impacts the final taste. Consider experimenting with different types of sauce to discover your preference.

5. Properly grease the baking dish:
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   This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the enchiladas from the baking dish once cooked. Use an appropriate amount of oil or cooking spray to sufficiently grease the dish.

6. Check for doneness:

   Ensure the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly before removing them from the oven. Internal temperature should reach a safe level to eliminate foodborne illness concerns.

The key to a successful dish lies in the careful balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in creating the overall culinary experience, from the succulent shrimp to the rich, savory sauce.

Understanding the nuances of each ingredient and cooking stage allows for creating a dish that consistently pleases the palate. Careful attention to detail and a methodical approach are essential for achieving the desired outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions about this Enchilada Recipe

This section addresses common questions related to preparing and cooking this recipe.

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

   Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. However, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from impacting the texture of the final dish. This prevents the enchiladas from becoming soggy. The thawing method should prevent overcooking as well.

2. Can I substitute the cheese?

   Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preferences. Cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend would work well. Consider the melting properties when choosing an alternative.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

   You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes this recipe highly adaptable for meal preparation in advance. Simply adjust the baking time accordingly.

4. What if my tortillas break?

   Don’t worry if some tortillas break; they will still taste delicious. Just be mindful when filling them to avoid overfilling, thus contributing to breakage. The most important aspect is enjoyment.

5. How can I make it spicier?

   Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the spiciness. Consider adding a chopped jalapeo or other chili pepper to increase the heat. Individual preference dictates the level of spiciness.

This shrimp enchilada recipe, once mastered, becomes a versatile culinary tool, allowing for creative adaptations and personalized flavor profiles. The foundational techniques remain consistent, ensuring success with each iteration.

The rewards of this recipe extend beyond the delicious meal; it provides a rewarding culinary experience, enhancing cooking skills and fostering confidence in the kitchen. Experimentation and refinement are encouraged to develop your personalized version of this classic dish.

Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp enchiladas!