Lazy Enchiladas Recipe

The Lazy Person’s Guide to Magical Enchiladas Recipe

Crafting lazy enchiladas might sound like a culinary contradiction, but trust me, this dish breaks all the traditional cooking rules.

Simplicity becomes your secret weapon in the kitchen today.

Forget complicated techniques that drain your energy and motivation.

These enchiladas come together faster than you can scroll through social media, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Savoring a Mexican-inspired meal without spending hours prepping ingredients or washing countless dishes.

Shortcuts never tasted this good, promising a delicious dinner that leaves you more time to relax.

Grab a fork and get ready to revolutionize your weeknight cooking game!

Lazy Enchiladas FAQ Guide

  • What are lazy enchiladas?

Lazy enchiladas are a quick and easy meal where frozen taquitos are transformed into a cheesy, saucy dish by baking them with enchilada sauce and cheese, creating a shortcut version of traditional enchiladas.

  • Can I use different types of taquitos?

Absolutely! You can use chicken, beef, or bean taquitos depending on your preference. Just make sure they’re frozen and from a brand you enjoy.

  • Do I need to thaw the taquitos before baking?

No, you can bake the taquitos directly from frozen. This makes the recipe even more convenient and quick to prepare.

  • What if I don't have enchilada sauce?

You can substitute with salsa, marinara sauce, or a mix of tomato sauce and taco seasoning to create a similar flavor profile.

  • Whip Up Effortless Comfort: These lazy enchiladas transform frozen taquitos into a mouthwatering meal with minimal prep, perfect for busy nights when you crave delicious Mexican-inspired flavors without complex cooking.
  • Customize Your Feast: The recipe allows endless personalization with various toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa, making it adaptable to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: From freezer to table in just 30 minutes, this dish saves time without compromising on taste, offering a speedy solution for hungry families or last-minute dinner emergencies.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Simplicity: By using pre-made taquitos and a straightforward baking method, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal that requires zero culinary expertise, making it ideal for novice cooks or exhausted parents.

What You’ll Need For Lazy Enchiladas

Protein Base:
  • Frozen Taquitos: A convenient and quick base for lazy enchiladas, providing a crispy texture and pre-filled protein.
Sauce and Topping:
  • Enchilada Sauce: A zesty and flavorful sauce that adds moisture and traditional Mexican-style taste to the dish.
  • Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds creamy richness to the enchiladas, creating a golden and appetizing top layer.
Garnish Options:
  • Sour Cream: A cool and tangy topping that balances the spicy and warm flavors.
  • Guacamole: Fresh and creamy addition that provides richness and authentic Mexican flair.
  • Salsa: Adds extra spice and freshness to the dish.
  • Cilantro: Bright and herbaceous garnish that enhances the overall flavor profile.

How To Put Together Lazy Enchiladas Fast

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Enchilada Base

Ingredients for layering:
  • Frozen taquitos
  • Enchilada sauce
  • Shredded cheese

Spread the frozen taquitos in a single, neat layer across the baking dish. Pour the enchilada sauce generously over the taquitos, making sure every inch gets a delicious coating. Sprinkle the shredded cheese like a tasty blanket covering the entire dish.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for golden, melted cheese and taquitos that are heated through and sizzling.

Step 4: Dress and Serve

Jazz up your enchiladas with fun toppings:
  • Dollop of sour cream
  • Fresh guacamole
  • Zesty salsa
  • Chopped cilantro

Serve immediately while everything is hot and bubbling. Dig in and enjoy your super-quick meal!

Pro Tip: This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Pro Tips For Lazy Enchiladas You’ll Love

  • Customize Toppings: Experiment with different garnishes like diced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or crumbled queso fresco to add extra flavor and texture.
  • Spice It Up: Mix hot sauce or sriracha into the enchilada sauce for a fiery kick that elevates the dish's heat level.
  • Make It Healthier: Choose low-fat cheese and taquitos, and add a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal's nutrition.
  • Vegetarian Swap: Replace meat taquitos with bean or vegetable-filled options to create a delicious plant-based version of this quick meal.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for an effortless weeknight dinner solution.

How To Save And Reheat Lazy Enchiladas

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Transfer cooled enchiladas to a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, where they'll maintain quality for up to 2 months.
  • Microwave Reheat: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until thoroughly warm, stirring halfway through.
  • Oven Reheat: Preheat oven to 350F, place enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for 15-20 minutes, removing foil during the last 5 minutes to restore crispy cheese texture.

Tastiest Matches For Lazy Enchiladas

  • Pop Open a Cold Mexican Beer: Crack open a crisp Corona, Modelo, or Dos Equis to complement the spicy, cheesy enchiladas. The light, refreshing beer cuts through the richness of the dish and provides a perfect cooling contrast.
  • Whip Up a Zesty Salsa Side: Create a fresh pico de gallo with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice. This bright, tangy salsa adds a fresh crunch and vibrant flavor that elevates the lazy enchiladas.
  • Mix a Quick Margarita: Blend tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec for a classic margarita that matches the Mexican-inspired flavors. The citrusy, slightly strong drink balances the cheesy, saucy taquitos perfectly.
  • Toss a Simple Green Salad: Prepare a light side salad with mixed greens, avocado slices, and a lime-cilantro vinaigrette. This fresh, crisp accompaniment helps cut through the richness of the cheesy enchiladas.

Simple Twists On Lazy Enchiladas

  • Spicy Kick Enchiladas: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the enchilada sauce for extra heat. Top with sliced green onions for a zesty crunch.
  • Vegetarian Veggie Fusion: Replace taquitos with vegetable taquitos or add black beans and corn between layers. Garnish with fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime.
  • Protein Power Enchiladas: Use chicken or beef taquitos instead of frozen ones. Mix shredded rotisserie chicken into the sauce for added protein and deeper flavor.
  • Breakfast Sunrise Edition: Serve with a fried egg on top and crumbled bacon. Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a morning meal transformation.
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Lazy Enchiladas Recipe

Lazy Enchiladas Recipe


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4.8 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Lazy enchiladas deliver Mexican comfort without complex cooking steps, bringing authentic flavors directly to your dinner table. Quick preparation and minimal ingredients ensure you can enjoy this delicious meal with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 package (20 ounces / 567 grams) frozen taquitos (chicken, beef, or vegetarian)
  • 1 can (10 ounces / 283 grams) red or green enchilada sauce
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack)

Toppings (Optional):

  • Sour cream
  • Guacamole
  • Salsa
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced jalapenos

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a single layer of frozen taquitos across the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overlapping.
  3. Generously cascade the enchilada sauce over the taquitos, making certain each piece is thoroughly moistened and coated with the rich, flavorful sauce.
  4. Distribute a generous blanket of shredded cheese across the top of the sauced taquitos, covering them completely for maximum melty goodness.
  5. Shield the dish with aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven, allowing the taquitos to warm and absorb the sauce for approximately 15 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil covering and return the dish to the oven, continuing to bake until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden landscape and the taquitos reach a perfect heated temperature.
  7. Elevate the dish with optional garnishes such as cool sour cream, creamy guacamole, zesty salsa, or fresh cilantro leaves for added texture and flavor.
  8. Serve immediately while hot, presenting a quick and delicious meal that requires minimal preparation effort.

Notes

  • Customize your taquito selection by choosing different flavors like beef, chicken, or bean to match personal preferences or dietary needs.
  • Swap regular cheese with dairy-free alternatives like vegan shredded cheese for lactose-intolerant or plant-based diets.
  • Add extra protein by topping with shredded rotisserie chicken or black beans for a more substantial meal.
  • Enhance the dish’s nutrition by sprinkling chopped fresh vegetables like diced bell peppers or jalapeños before baking for added texture and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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