Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas Recipe

Creamy shrimp enchiladas are a luxurious twist on classic Mexican comfort food. Succulent shrimp, smothered in a velvety cream sauce, wrapped in soft tortillas, and baked until bubbly—this dish is restaurant-quality but easy to make at home! Perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or whenever you crave something indulgent yet simple.

In this guide, you’ll learn:
✅ Pro tips for the juiciest shrimp
✅ Step-by-step instructions
✅ Customizable variations (spicy, gluten-free, etc.)
✅ Serving ideas to impress guests

Let’s dive in!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

• 9×13 Baking Dish – For assembling and baking enchiladas.
• Medium Skillet – To cook shrimp and prepare the sauce.
• Mixing Bowls – For combining filling ingredients.
• Whisk – To blend the creamy sauce smoothly.
• Cutting Board & Knife – For chopping veggies/herbs.
• Grater – If using block cheese (fresher flavor!).

Ingredients for Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas

(Serves 6)

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup cilantro, chopped

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour (or cornstarch for GF)
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup sour cream

For Assembly:

• 8-10 flour tortillas (or corn for GF)
• 2 cups shredded cheese blend (cheddar + Monterey Jack)
• Extra cilantro & lime wedges for garnish

How to Make Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas (Step-by-Step) ?

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp & Veggies

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté for 3 mins.
3. Add shrimp, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 2-3 mins until shrimp turns pink. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter. Whisk in flour to form a roux (1 min).
2. Gradually add chicken broth, then heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
3. Stir in Monterey Jack cheese and sour cream until melted.

Step 3: Assemble Enchiladas

1. Dip each tortilla in the sauce, then fill with shrimp mixture + a sprinkle of cheese.
2. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas. Top with extra cheese.
2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 mins until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with lime wedges, avocado, or Mexican rice.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or 1 tsp cayenne to the filling.
• Seafood Mix: Replace half the shrimp with crab or scallops.
• Vegetarian: Use mushrooms or black beans instead of shrimp.
• Gluten-Free: Swap flour tortillas for corn and use cornstarch in the sauce.
• Low-Carb: Wrap filling in lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas.

Cooking Notes

• Shrimp Size: Medium (41/50 count) works best avoid overcooking.
• Tortilla Tip: Warm tortillas briefly to prevent cracking when rolling.
• Sauce Consistency: If too thick, add more broth; if thin, simmer longer.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble enchiladas 1 day ahead (store covered in fridge).

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp salad.
• Garnish Ideas: Avocado slices, pico de gallo, or hot sauce.
• Drinks: Margaritas, chilled beer, or hibiscus tea.

Helpful Tips

• Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: Thaw frozen shrimp in cold water for 10 mins.
• Cheese Choice: A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar melts best.
• Avoid Soggy Enchiladas: Don’t oversauce before baking.

Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas

1. Pat shrimp dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
2. Layer flavors by seasoning each component (shrimp, sauce, etc.).
3. Broil 2 mins at the end for extra browning.

Prep/Cook/Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 24g
• Sodium: 680mg

Similar recipes you may also like:

• Delicious Shrimp Scampi Recipe
• Easy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
• Easy Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe
• Easy Yaki Udon Recipe
• Jennifer Aniston Salad Recipe

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, but add them last to prevent rubberiness.

Q: How to store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

These creamy shrimp enchiladas are a crowd-pleasing masterpiece rich, flavorful, and easier than you think! Customize the spice level, try different cheeses, or pair with your favorite sides. Make them tonight and watch everyone rave!

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