Forget everything you think you know about enchiladas. This isn't your grandma's casserole; this is a culinary love affair waiting to happen. Prepare to be seduced by the creamy, smoky richness of chipotle peppers perfectly balanced with succulent shrimp and a layer of melted cheese so decadent it's almost sinful. These aren't just enchiladas; they're an experience, a journey for your taste buds that culminates in a symphony of flavor. Imagine tender corn tortillas embracing a luscious filling, all bathed in a sauce that's both comforting and exciting.
Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a fiesta of flavor because we're about to embark on a step-by-step culinary adventure that will leave you craving more. From prepping the shrimp to creating the unforgettable chipotle cream sauce, we'll guide you through each delicious stage of making these unforgettable Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Enchiladas. Let's get cooking!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
- Spoon
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
- Large Shrimp: 1.5 pounds
- Old Bay Seasoning
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Lemon Pepper
- Lump Crab Meat: 8 ounces
- Scallions: 5-6
- Bell Pepper: 1/2
- Red Onion: 1/2
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Oil
- Salt
- Cracked Black Pepper
- Corn Tortillas: 14
- Pepper Jack Cheese: 8 ounces
- Cheddar Cheese: 4 ounces
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- All-purpose Flour: 3.5 tablespoons
- Chipotle Pepper in Adobo Sauce: 1
- Adobo Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Chicken Bouillon Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 1.25 cups
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 8 ounces (1 cup)
- Mexican Sour Cream or Crema Mexicana
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling
- Season with Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon pepper. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
- Sauté chopped bell pepper, onion, and scallion whites in oil until softened. Add salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for another minute.
- Add crab meat (shredded/chopped), extra Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Mix in shrimp (partially cook). Remove from pan and let cool.
- Mix cooled shrimp filling with chopped green scallions, cheese (pepper jack and cheddar), and more filling.
Step 2. Make the Creamy Chipotle Sauce
- In a pan, create a roux with butter and flour. Add onion powder, chopped chipotle pepper and adobo sauce, chicken bouillon powder, and water. Simmer until thickened. Stir in heavy cream.
Step 3. Assemble and Bake the Enchiladas
- Heat corn tortillas in hot oil to soften. This prevents them from falling apart.
- Spread a little sauce in the baking dish, fill tortillas with shrimp mixture, roll tightly, and place in the dish.
- Bake covered at 400°F (204°C) for 25 minutes. For a cheese crust, add remaining cheese after 25 minutes and bake uncovered until bubbly.
Step 4. Rest and Serve
- Let enchiladas rest for 15 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream or crema mexicana.
Read more: Delicious Nicaraguan Enchiladas: A Leftover Recipe
Tips
- Substitute lump crab meat with extra shrimp if desired.
- Using hot oil to heat the tortillas helps maintain their texture.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; partially cooked is best.
- Adjust cheese type according to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, fish, or even a vegetarian option like jackfruit would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed.
2. How can I make this recipe spicier or milder?
For spicier enchiladas, add more chipotle peppers or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For milder, use less chipotle or add a spoonful of sour cream to the sauce.
So there you have it – Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Enchiladas that are sure to become a new family favorite. The perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!