Name: Chipotle Cheddar Cauliflower Black Bean Enchiladas.
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 large head cauliflower (cut into florets); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste); 1 poblano pepper (sliced); 2 cups red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought); 1 can (14 ounce) black beans (drained and rinsed); ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 10-12 corn or flour tortillas; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar; ½ cup shredded pepper jack; 2 green onions (chopped); 1 avocado (diced or sliced); 1 cup mango (chopped); 1 jalapeño (seeded and chopped); Juice of 1 lime (plus lime for serving); ⅓ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

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If you’re on the lookout for a hearty, flavor-packed meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious, look no further than these Chipotle Cheddar Cauliflower Black Bean Enchiladas. With a delightful blend of spices, creamy cheeses, and a fantastic texture from roasted cauliflower, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Plus, it’s a perfect way to sneak in some veggies while still indulging in the comfort of enchiladas. Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Flavor Explosion: The combination of chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin offers a smoky, spicy kick that elevates the dish.
Veggie-Packed: Roasted cauliflower and black beans not only add nutrition but also a satisfying texture.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preference, making it perfect for any occasion.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.
Great for Meal Prep: These enchiladas store well, making them a great option for busy weeknights.

What You’ll Gather

1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets: This forms the base of our filling, providing texture and nutrition.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: For roasting the cauliflower and adding healthy fats.
1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder: For that smoky heat.
2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds depth and richness.
1 teaspoon cumin: A warm spice that complements the other flavors.
Kosher salt and black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
1 poblano pepper, sliced: A mild pepper that adds flavor without overwhelming heat.
2 cups red enchilada sauce: Choose homemade or store-bought for convenience.
1 can (14 ounce) black beans, drained and rinsed: A protein-packed addition that makes the dish hearty.
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: For a fresh, herbaceous finish.
10-12 corn or flour tortillas: To wrap up our delicious filling.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar: For that melty, cheesy goodness.
½ cup shredded pepper jack: Adds a little spicy kick to the cheese blend.
2 green onions, chopped: For a fresh crunch and flavor boost.
1 avocado, diced or sliced: Creamy avocado is the perfect topping.
1 cup mango, chopped: Adds a sweet and fruity contrast.
1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped: For an extra layer of spice, if desired.
Juice of 1 lime, plus lime for serving: Brightens up the entire dish.
⅓ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: For garnish and an extra pop of flavor.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Baking Sheet: For roasting the cauliflower and poblanos.
Large Mixing Bowl: To combine the filling ingredients.
9×13 inch Baking Dish: Ideal for assembling and baking the enchiladas.
Skillet: For briefly cooking the tortillas to make them pliable.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping all the fresh ingredients.

Directions: Chipotle Cheddar Cauliflower Black Bean Enchiladas.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the cauliflower florets and sliced poblano pepper on the sheet.

Step 2: Season the Veggies

Drizzle the cauliflower and poblano with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Then, sprinkle with chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the florets are well coated.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Roast the seasoned veggies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

Once the veggies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower and poblano, drained black beans, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and half of the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Spread about 1 cup of the enchilada sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Take a tortilla, fill it with a generous amount of the cauliflower-black bean filling, and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled enchilada seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 6: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all the enchiladas are assembled, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses evenly over the sauce.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If you like a little extra color, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Top with diced avocado, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and mango. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Budget & Availability Swaps

Cauliflower: Use frozen cauliflower florets if fresh isn’t available.
Poblano Pepper: Substitute with bell pepper for a milder flavor.
Cheeses: Any combination of cheese will work; try mozzarella or Monterey jack if sharp cheddar isn’t on hand.
Tortillas: Whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas can be used as alternatives to corn or regular flour tortillas.

Method to the Madness

This recipe is all about layering flavors and textures. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the cauliflower and poblano, while the spices bring out a smoky depth in every bite. By mixing the filling with fresh herbs and lime juice, you ensure that each enchilada has a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese and sauce. The variety of toppings allows for customization, making each serving unique and exciting!

Make-Ahead & Storage

These Chipotle Cheddar Cauliflower Black Bean Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble them a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. If you wish to freeze them, simply assemble and cover well with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and they reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my enchiladas are falling apart when I roll them?

If your tortillas are cracking or falling apart, try warming them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.

Can I use a different type of sauce?

Absolutely! While red enchilada sauce is traditional, you can experiment with green enchilada sauce or even a homemade salsa verde for a different flavor profile.

How spicy are these enchiladas?

The spiciness largely depends on how much chipotle chili powder and jalapeño you decide to use. For a milder dish, reduce the chipotle powder or omit the jalapeño altogether.

What can I serve with these enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair beautifully with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh green salad, or even some refried beans for a hearty meal. Don’t forget the lime wedges for an added zing!

Save & Share

If you love these Chipotle Cheddar Cauliflower Black Bean Enchiladas, share your creation on social media! Tag your friends and family who would enjoy this recipe, or keep it for your next gathering. Cooking is always more fun when shared with loved ones!

These Chipotle Cheddar Cauliflower Black Bean Enchiladas are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. With their smoky, spicy filling and melty cheese, they are sure to impress anyone at your table. Whether you’re making them for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these enchiladas will satisfy both your cravings and your conscience, making them a dish you can feel good about enjoying. So grab your ingredients, roll up those tortillas, and treat yourself to a delicious experience that you’ll want to revisit time and time again!