Name: Seafood Enchiladas: 10 Irresistible Recipes to Savor
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 yellow onion (diced); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 pound raw shrimp (thawed, peeled, deveined, chopped); 1/2 pound lump crab (6 oz can will also work); 12 ounces monterey jack cheese (shredded – divided use); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 12 medium size flour tortillas; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all purpose flour; 1 tablespoon jalapeno (diced); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2/3 cup salsa verde; pico de gallo (optional for serving)

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Seafood Enchiladas have become a favorite in my kitchen, especially with their rich flavors and comforting textures. These delicious shrimp and crab enchiladas topped with cheese and pico de gallo are a perfect representation of Mexican cuisine. They offer a delightful combination of seafood wrapped in soft tortillas, baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart.

Why You’ll Love This Seafood Enchiladas

There are so many reasons to adore these Seafood Enchiladas. Firstly, they are a fantastic option for family dinners, bringing everyone together at the table. Secondly, the blend of shrimp and crab makes them a gourmet choice, perfect for impressing guests. Thirdly, they’re versatile; whether you want spicy seafood enchiladas or creamy seafood enchiladas, you can easily adjust the recipe to your liking. Furthermore, they are packed with protein, making them a healthy dinner option. Additionally, they are easy to prepare, ideal for busy nights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Lastly, these enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional recipes, making them a must-try!

Ingredients for Seafood Enchiladas

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons butter
1 yellow onion (diced)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 pound raw shrimp (thawed, peeled, deveined, chopped)
1/2 pound lump crab (6 oz can will also work)
12 ounces monterey jack cheese (shredded – divided use)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
12 medium size flour tortillas
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all purpose flour
1 tablespoon jalapeno (diced)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
2/3 cup salsa verde
pico de gallo (optional for serving)

How to Make Seafood Enchiladas Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°.
Step 2: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Pour into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter, add flour and whisk, cooking 1-2 minutes. Add diced jalapeno and cumin, whisking to combine. Cook for another minute.
Step 4: Whisk in sour cream, milk and salsa verde. Cook, whisking until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Peel, devein and chop the shrimp.
Step 6: Add chopped shrimp, crab, cilantro and 2 cups of shredded cheese to the bowl of onions and garlic. Mix well.
Step 7: Spoon filling into flour tortillas and roll tightly.
Step 8: Place enchiladas seam side down in a large baking dish. Pour sauce over the top and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Step 9: Bake at 375° for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Step 10: Top with pico de gallo before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Seafood Enchiladas

Keep these in mind:

Can substitute crab with canned crab meat.
Use fresh ingredients for better flavor.
Adjust spice level by adding more or less jalapeno.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of lime juice to the filling.

Best Ways to Serve Seafood Enchiladas

These Seafood Enchiladas can be served with various sides to enhance your meal. Pair them with a fresh salad for a light option or serve with seafood tacos as a delightful appetizer. For a heartier meal, consider adding seafood burritos to your table as well.

Seafood Enchiladas: 10 Irresistible Recipes to Savor - Seafood Enchiladas - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Seafood Enchiladas

To store leftover enchiladas, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for about three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350° until warmed through, or you can microwave them for a quicker option. This makes them a fantastic meal prep choice for busy weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Seafood Enchiladas

What’s the secret to perfect Seafood Enchiladas?

The key to perfect Seafood Enchiladas lies in using fresh seafood and balancing the flavors of spices. Make sure to avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender.

Can I make Seafood Enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Seafood Enchiladas in advance. Assemble them and cover tightly before storing them in the fridge. Bake them when ready to serve!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Seafood Enchiladas?

To avoid mistakes, ensure the tortillas are warm and soft before filling. Also, don’t overload the tortillas, or they may burst while baking.

Variations of Seafood Enchiladas You Can Try

Get creative with your Seafood Enchiladas by trying these variations: 1) Add black beans for a heartier filling; 2) Top with avocado slices for a fresh twist; 3) Use different types of cheese for varied flavors. These options can cater to different dietary preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal!

For more delicious recipes, check out Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss Apple Snickerdoodles!