There’s something incredibly comforting about Lazy Enchiladas. With layers of crispy, golden taquitos smothered in rich enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheese, this dish is like a warm hug for your taste buds. The best part? It’s cozy, creamy without any heavy cream, and perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying that classic Tex-Mex flavor that we all love. Who wouldn’t want that?
Why You’ll Love Lazy Enchiladas (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
Lazy Enchiladas are the perfect combination of creamy and crunchy that makes them irresistible. The way the enchilada sauce seeps into the taquitos creates a melty texture, comforting like your favorite sweater on a chilly day. These enchiladas are so quick to whip up, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
- Speed: Ready in just about 30 minutes!
- Texture: The mix of crispy taquitos and soft sauce is delightful.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses common ingredients you probably already have.
- Meal Prep: Make a big batch for easy lunches or dinners.
- Dietary Notes: Easily customizable for dietary needs; gluten and dairy-free options available.
Key Ingredients for Lazy Enchiladas
- Frozen Taquitos – These are the heart of the dish! They provide that crispy base without any hassle.
- Enchilada Sauce – Adds a rich, savory depth of flavor; go for mild or spicy based on your taste.
- Shredded Cheese – Melts beautifully and brings everything together, creating a gooey topping. Substitute with a dairy-free option if needed.
- Sour Cream – For that creamy finish; Greek yogurt works great as a healthier swap!
- Diced Tomatoes – Adds freshness and a little acidity to brighten things up.
- Sliced Jalapeños – Bring a kick of heat that can be adjusted to your liking.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Lazy Enchiladas
Phase 1 – Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Gather all your ingredients on a counter for easy access.
- Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- Place the frozen taquitos in the baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the taquitos.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, along with diced tomatoes and jalapeños.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving, then top with a dollop of sour cream.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Swap: Use whole wheat or gluten-free taquitos for a healthier twist.
- Technique Improvement: For extra flavor, add sautéed onions and bell peppers to the taquitos before baking.
- Storage/Time Saver: Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy meal later!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcrowding the dish with too many taquitos. This can result in uneven cooking, leaving some burnt while others are cold. Make sure they have space to breathe!
Another pitfall is using too much sauce. While we all love sauce, too much can make the dish soggy. Keep the sauce to a comfy drizzle over the taquitos.
Lastly, don’t skip letting it cool a bit before serving. The enchiladas continue to set, and the flavors deepen as they rest. Patience pays off!
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free taquitos.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Spicy: Add more jalapeños or even some diced chipotle peppers for an extra zing.
- Herbal: Top with fresh cilantro or avocado for a burst of freshness.
- Stovetop: Consider making this in an Instant Pot for a quick weeknight dinner.
How to Serve Lazy Enchiladas
Best Pairings
- Rice: A side of Spanish rice provides a lovely balance.
- Beans: Black beans add protein and fiber.
Toppings & Garnishes
- Sour Cream: A classic touch for creaminess.
- Fresh Cilantro: Brightens up every bite.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy and delicious!
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! You can assemble Lazy Enchiladas a day ahead and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled enchiladas for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, place the enchiladas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave for about 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding it.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It adds creaminess and a slight tang!
Can I double it?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time as needed.
How to fix a too-thick soup?
Add a little broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Heat and stir until combined.
If you’re looking for a cozy, creamy dish that’s super easy to whip up, Lazy Enchiladas are a must-try! Give this recipe a shot, and don’t forget to rate or comment below. And if you’ve got a craving for more quick and delicious meals, check out our other easy recipes!
Lazy Enchiladas
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 pieces Frozen Taquitos These are the heart of the dish! They provide that crispy base without any hassle.
- 1 cup Enchilada Sauce Adds a rich, savory depth of flavor; choose mild or spicy based on your taste.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese Melts beautifully; substitute with a dairy-free option if needed.
- 1/2 cup Diced Tomatoes Adds freshness and a little acidity to brighten things up.
- 1/4 cup Sliced Jalapeños Bring a kick of heat; adjust based on your liking.
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream For that creamy finish; Greek yogurt works great as a healthier swap.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Gather all your ingredients on a counter for easy access.
- Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray.
Cooking/Assembly
- Place the frozen taquitos in the baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the taquitos.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, along with diced tomatoes and jalapeños.
Serving
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving, then top with a dollop of sour cream.