Indulge in a burst of Tex-Mex flavors with these delectable Easy Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas. Bursting with succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice, these enchiladas are a perfect fusion of comfort and flavor. Join us as we delve into this mouthwatering recipe, accompanied by FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions to suit different dietary needs.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Filling: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and minced jalapeño (if using). Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and stir in cooked shrimp and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Spoon shrimp mixture onto each flour tortilla and roll up tightly. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Make Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat and stir in sour cream and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour Sauce Over Enchiladas: Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the assembled enchiladas in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the foil from the baking dish and garnish the enchiladas with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Seafood Variations: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite seafood such as crab, lobster, or fish. You can also mix different types of seafood for a seafood medley filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the shrimp and add sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, corn, and black beans for a flavorful vegetarian version of the enchiladas.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeño or incorporating diced green chilies for a milder flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: For a keto-friendly option, substitute flour tortillas with low-carb tortillas or lettuce leaves. Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for the sauce, and replace chicken broth with bone broth. Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above, and ensure that all ingredients used are low in carbohydrates. Use cauliflower rice or broccoli rice as a filling instead of tortillas for a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but reduce the cooking time in the skillet to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Q: Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if baking them directly from the refrigerator.
Q: Can I freeze leftover enchiladas? A: Yes, these enchiladas can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Q: What side dishes pair well with shrimp enchiladas? A: Serve these enchiladas with Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, salsa, or a side salad for a complete meal.
These Easy Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas are a delightful combination of succulent shrimp, melted cheese, and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, these enchiladas are sure to impress. With their versatile filling and creamy sauce, they’re a perfect choice for any occasion. Treat yourself to a taste of Tex-Mex goodness with these irresistible enchiladas!
