
This extra easy Mexican Enfrijoladas recipe is my best solution for days when I crave bold flavors but want dinner on the table fast. Creamy black bean sauce comes together in minutes, blanketing corn tortillas and melty cheese for a soul-warming meal that never feels fussy.
I first made these during a busy weeknight and now it is the first thing my kids ask for when they hear tacos I love the comforting richness with hardly any effort
Ingredients
- Black beans canned: Use a quality brand for creaminess and easy blending
- Fresh cilantro: Brightens the sauce If possible pick cilantro with no yellow or wilted leaves
- Adobo sauce from chipotles in adobo: Brings smoky flavor Try to spoon from the sauciest part of the can
- Garlic: Adds depth and punch Pick a plump firm clove
- Ground cumin and paprika: These spices boost earthy warmth Go for fresh jars for best aroma
- Chili powder Onion powder Kosher salt Black pepper: These round out the flavor so do not skip them
- Corn tortillas: Fresh tortillas with no cracks make the best rolls
- Oaxaca or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully Choose cheese that is soft and freshly shredded for creamy texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Bean Sauce:
- Add canned black beans with liquid water garlic chopped cilantro adobo sauce cumin paprika chili powder onion powder salt and pepper to your blender Process on high for about one to two minutes until it is very smooth and creamy The sauce should pour easily but still coat a spoon
- Prep the Baking Dish and Tortillas:
- Lightly grease your casserole dish to prevent sticking Spoon a thin layer of bean sauce across the bottom to create a cushion Stack four to six corn tortillas at a time and wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel Microwave for about thirty seconds This step makes the tortillas flexible and helps avoid tearing
- Fill and Roll Tortillas:
- Pour remaining bean sauce into a wide bowl Dip each tortilla in the sauce so each side is well coated Lay the tortilla flat Add a generous tablespoon of freshly shredded cheese down the center Roll up snugly and place seam side down in your prepared dish Repeat until all tortillas are filled
- Finish Assembling:
- Once your dish is packed with rolled tortillas pour the last of the bean sauce evenly across the top Sprinkle over the remaining cheese so every bite is melty
- Bake and Serve:
- Cover your casserole tightly with foil Pop into a three hundred fifty degree oven Bake for thirty minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted Let cool a minute before serving for neater slices

My favorite part of this dish is the silky sauce with smoky chipotle heat My family loves to load their plates with extra cheese and fresh cilantro making every dinner a cozy event
Storage Tips
Leftover enfrijoladas store well in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days Warm gently in the microwave or oven with a fresh scatter of cheese if you want it extra melty These freeze well too Just wrap portions tightly and thaw overnight for quickest reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find Oaxaca cheese Monterey Jack or even mozzarella are great substitutes You can swap canned pinto beans for black beans for a different flavor and use any favorite salsa in place of adobo to adjust heat
Serving Suggestions
Top with extra cilantro diced onion or dollops of sour cream for a classic touch Sometimes I serve these with avocado slices or a crisp salad to round out the meal They are perfect with Mexican rice when feeding a crowd

Cultural Context
Enfrijoladas are beloved breakfast and brunch food in Mexican homes Each region has its own take but the heart is a tortilla wrapped in bean sauce It is also a thrifty dish born of staple pantry ingredients and creativity
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of beans works best for the sauce?
Black beans, particularly canned, provide a creamy base with classic flavor. Pinto beans are a suitable alternative if needed.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Oaxaca or Monterey Jack melt beautifully, but mozzarella or a mild cheddar can also be used for a similar texture.
- → How can I keep tortillas from breaking?
Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave wrapped in damp paper towels before rolling them to keep them soft and pliable.
- → How spicy is the chipotle sauce?
Adobo sauce adds a gentle smoky heat, but you can adjust the amount or omit it for a milder taste.
- → Are enfrijoladas suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate before baking. Leftovers reheat well for quick meals.
- → What toppings go well with this dish?
Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced onion, avocado slices, or a drizzle of crema for extra freshness.