Enchiladas have always been one of my favorite comfort foods, but I wanted to create a lighter, high-protein version without sacrificing flavor.

That’s where cottage cheese comes in! This Cottage Cheese Enchiladas recipe is packed with creamy, spiced cottage cheese, black beans, and fresh herbs, all wrapped in warm tortillas and smothered in enchilada sauce.

The result? A deliciously cheesy, satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and incredibly comforting.

Packed with creamy cottage cheese and a blend of spices, they offer a delightful contrast to traditional meat-filled enchiladas.

This recipe is perfect for a quick and hearty meal that everyone will love.

Imagine sinking your fork into tender tortillas filled with a rich cottage cheese mixture, smothered in zesty enchilada sauce.

Not only are these enchiladas a comforting choice, but they’re also a fantastic way to include protein in your diet without the heaviness of meat.

These Cottage Cheese Enchiladas can easily be made vegetarian-friendly, and they’re a great option for those nights when you want something simple yet satisfying.

Plus, you can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Here’s Why You’ll Love My Cottage Cheese Enchiladas

If you’re looking for an easy, meat-free enchilada recipe that’s high in protein and full of flavor, this is it!

Cottage cheese gives the filling a creamy, ricotta-like texture, while the blend of Mexican spices adds a bold and delicious taste.

Unlike traditional enchiladas, these are lighter but still incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a cozy family gathering.

Plus, they’re customizable—add veggies, chicken, or even more cheese for extra indulgence!

Delicious Cottage Cheese Enchiladas for Every Occasion

These Cottage Cheese Enchiladas stand out as a distinctive take on a beloved classic.

Filled with creamy cottage cheese and a blend of spices, they provide a delightful alternative to the traditional meat-filled versions.

This dish is an ideal choice for a quick yet hearty meal, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Imagine the experience of biting into tender tortillas enveloped in a rich cottage cheese mixture, all generously smothered in zesty enchilada sauce.

The comfort of these enchiladas is evident, making them suitable for various occasions, and they serve as a clever way to boost your protein intake without the weight of meat.

A Flavorful Filling

At the heart of these enchiladas lies a mouthwatering filling that marries creamy cottage cheese with a medley of spices.

The combination of ground cumin and garlic powder adds depth to the flavor while enhancing the overall experience.

The addition of chopped green onions not only brings a slight crunch but also a burst of freshness that balances out the richness of the cheese.

This filling is versatile and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or additional spices, allowing you to create a personalized version that suits your taste preferences.

Preparing for Baking

As you prepare to assemble your Cottage Cheese Enchiladas, it’s essential to set the stage right.

Preheating your oven to the appropriate temperature ensures that your enchiladas will cook evenly and develop a delightful golden color on top.

A thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of the baking dish not only adds flavor but also prevents the tortillas from sticking.

Carefully filling and rolling each tortilla with the cottage cheese mixture is a crucial step that requires a bit of finesse.

Laying them seam side down in the baking dish helps maintain their shape while baking, resulting in a beautifully presented dish.

Layering for Flavor

Once all the enchiladas are nestled snugly in the baking dish, it’s time to smother them with more enchilada sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.

This layers flavor and ensures that each bite is rich and satisfying.

Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking phase helps retain moisture, ensuring that the tortillas remain tender.

After the foil is removed, a brief additional baking time allows the cheese to melt perfectly and take on a lovely golden hue.

This step is vital for achieving that inviting, bubbly finish that enchiladas are known for.

Serving Suggestions

The presentation of your Cottage Cheese Enchiladas can elevate the dining experience to new heights.

Garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also infuses a fresh herbal note that complements the dish perfectly.

Serving them alongside a small bowl of sour cream provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, allowing each person to adjust the creaminess to their liking.

These enchiladas are hearty enough to stand alone, but they pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.

You can also serve them with guacamole, sour cream, or a squeeze of fresh lime for an extra burst of flavor.

For a lighter option, pair them with grilled vegetables, a simple avocado salsa, or black bean soup. Want a crunch? Serve with tortilla chips and homemade pico de gallo!

Nutrition Highlights

These Cottage Cheese Enchiladas not only satisfy your palate but also offer nutritional benefits.

Each serving contains a healthy portion of protein, making them a filling option that won’t weigh you down.

With about 290 calories per serving, they provide a balanced meal without excess calories.

The combination of cottage cheese and vegetables ensures that you’re getting essential nutrients while still enjoying a comforting dish.

Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these enchiladas can fit right into your meal plan without guilt.

Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Enchiladas

  • Drain excess liquid from cottage cheese to avoid a watery filling.
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  • Warm the tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
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  • Use a high-quality enchilada sauce for the best flavor—homemade or store-bought.
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  • Don’t overfill the tortillas to keep them from falling apart.
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  • For extra flavor, add shredded cheese on top before baking!

Savory Cottage Cheese Enchiladas Recipe

Recipe by JoanneCourse: MainCuisine: Mexican-InspiredDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

(8 enchiladas)
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories per serving

320

kcal

These enchiladas are a delightful combination of creamy cottage cheese, savory spices, and tangy enchilada sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas.

They deliver a balanced flavor profile that’s both hearty and comforting, making them a perfect weeknight meal or a dish for special gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas

  • 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (full-fat recommended)

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

  • ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • ½ teaspoon chili powder

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Directions

  • Preheat the Oven:
  • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  • Prepare the Filling:
  • In a medium bowl, mix cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, black beans, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir until everything is well combined.
  • Assemble the Enchiladas:
  • Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave for 15 seconds to make them more flexible.
  • Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cottage cheese filling onto each tortilla.
  • Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in the greased baking dish.
  • Add the Sauce & Cheese:
  • Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
  • Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese if desired.
  • Bake:
  • Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Garnish & Serve:
  • Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.
  • Serve hot with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
  • Add protein by mixing in cooked shredded chicken or ground turkey.
  • For a vegetarian boost, add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
  • Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for more flavor.

Storage and Warming of Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
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  • Freezing: Wrap enchiladas individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.