Name: Cheesy Shrimp Enchiladas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon cumin; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon butter; ½ cup chopped onion; ½ cup chopped red bell pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (plus extra for topping); ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup chopped cilantro; 12 corn tortillas; 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce

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These Cheesy Shrimp Enchiladas are creamy, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying. Juicy shrimp are paired with a luscious cheese sauce, rolled in tortillas, and baked under a blanket of enchilada sauce and melty cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive party dish, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Cheesy Shrimp Enchiladas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines seafood with classic Mexican-inspired flavors in a creamy, cheesy bake.
Great for feeding a family or serving guests—makes 12 enchiladas.
Customizable with different cheeses, vegetables, or spice levels.
Can be made ahead and baked when ready to serve.
Comforting, filling, and guaranteed to impress.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup chopped red bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (plus extra for topping)
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup chopped cilantro
12 corn tortillas
1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce

directions

Prepare the shrimp: Toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and chop.
Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until thickened (5–7 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in cheese, sour cream, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Soften tortillas by microwaving or lightly frying. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the dish. Dip tortillas in sauce, fill with chopped shrimp and cheese sauce, then roll tightly. Place seam-side down in dish.
Bake: Pour remaining enchilada sauce over tortillas and sprinkle with cheese. Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
Cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 enchiladas
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Add corn, black beans, or spinach to the filling for extra texture.
Use a cheese blend like cheddar, pepper jack, or queso fresco.
Spice it up with cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Make it vegetarian by swapping shrimp for beans and vegetables.
Puree roasted red peppers or tomatoes into the sauce for added depth.
Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for brightness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. To freeze, assemble enchiladas without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, flour tortillas will also work and are easier to roll.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely before cooking.

What’s the best cheese for enchiladas?

Monterey Jack melts beautifully, but cheddar or a mix of cheeses adds flavor.

Can I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the filling or sauce.

How do I keep tortillas from tearing?

Warm them first in the microwave or lightly fry them before filling.

Can I add rice to the filling?

Yes, rice makes the enchiladas heartier and stretches the recipe further.

Can I freeze enchiladas after baking?

Yes, but the texture may soften. Freeze before baking for best results.

What sides go well with these enchiladas?

Serve with Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the assembly stage to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Shrimp Enchiladas are creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, a rich cheese sauce, and a bubbly enchilada topping, this dish balances comfort food with a touch of elegance. Serve with rice, beans, or salad for a complete and satisfying meal.