The Best Cheesy Veggie Enchiladas (Vegan And Gluten-Free)

Indulge in the savory delight of these Cheesy Vegan Enchiladas, an easy and equally delicious recipe designed to elevate your weeknight dinners. These enchiladas are made with wholesome and simple ingredients that you can trust. Whether you follow a vegan diet or simply appreciate a mouthwatering meal, these enchiladas are sure to satisfy all palates.

Planning weeknight dinners is something that is always way harder than it needs to be. The recipes are either way too complicated or made with unhealthy ingredients. However I am on a mission to solve both of these problems. Recipes such as my 15-Minute Sesame Noodles and Creamy Vegan Mushroom and Herb Risotto and now this vegan enchilada recipe are just some of my healthy and easy weeknight-approved recipes. 

This post is sponsored by Good Foods - A company that aligns with The All Natural Vegan Mission. Thank you for supporting brands that make The All Natural Vegan Possible!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

This recipe features several affiliate links, meaning I will earn a small commission if you purchase through these links.

Cheesy Vegan Enchiladas Ingredients:

This vegan enchiladas recipe is great because it's made with minimal ingredients, yet it's packed full of flavor and easy to make, making it the perfect vegan recipe for busy weeknights. 

Enchilada Filling:

• Bell Peppers - Add vibrant color, sweet flavor, and a crunchy texture to the filling. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, which support immune function and digestive health. You can use any color bell pepper. I love using a mix of red bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, and orange bell peppers. Use any leftovers to make my Creamy One Pot Vegan Ramen Noodles!
• Red Onion - Enhances the savory-sweet flavor profile of the filling. Red onions are a good source of antioxidants and contain compounds that may promote heart health and reduce inflammation. You can use yellow onions as well; however, red onions contain more antioxidants. 
• Garlic - Infuses the filling with aromatic flavor and depth. Garlic is renowned for its immune-boosting properties and potential benefits for heart health and combating illness.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Avocado Oil - Used for sautéing and adds richness to the filling. Extra virgin olive oil and avocado oil are high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may contribute to heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Mushrooms - Provide a meaty texture and umami flavor to the filling. Mushrooms are low in calories, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and may support immune function and reduce inflammation.
• Chipotle Powder - Chipotle powder offers a smoky, earthy, and mildly spicy flavor to dishes. It is rich in capsaicin, a compound known for its potential to boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, and aid in pain relief. Additionally, they contain vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.
• Cayenne Powder - Cayenne powder provides a fiery heat with a touch of sweetness and earthiness. Cayenne is a potent source of capsaicin, which may help boost metabolism, reduce appetite, and relieve pain. It also contains vitamins A and E, antioxidants that support immune function and skin health.
• Cumin - Cumin offers a warm, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor with a hint of citrus. It is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which may help reduce inflammation and promote digestion. It also contains iron and may have antimicrobial properties.
• Chili Powder - Chili powder provides a complex blend of spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors. Chili powder typically contains a mix of spices like chili peppers, cumin, garlic, and oregano, offering a range of potential health benefits. It may help boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health due to its antioxidant content.
• Sea Salt - Sea salt enhances the overall flavor. It contains trace minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, depending on its source. 
• Good Foods Nacho Cheeze Style Dip - Adds creaminess and a cheesy flavor to the filling and top of the enchiladas. This vegan nacho cheese sauce is made from plant-based ingredients like cauliflower, nutritional yeast, tomato puree, pumpkin seeds, and spices like garlic powder, turmeric, and paprika. It provides a source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. I love using this dip as a cheese sauce for my Loaded Cheesy Raw Vegan Nachos!
• Vegan Refried Beans - Serve as a protein-rich component of the filling, adding heartiness and substance. Refried beans are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting satiety and digestive health. You can used refried black beans or refried pinto beans. 

Enchilada Ingredients:

• Red Enchilada Sauce - Coats the enchiladas with a rich, tangy flavor. You can either use homemade enchilada sauce or store-bought enchilada sauce.  Enchilada sauce often contains tomatoes, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and well-being. Make sure to choose an enchilada sauce that is made with clean ingredients and does not contain any artificial flavors or colors. 
• Gluten-Free Tortillas - Serve as the base for the enchiladas, providing a hearty and comforting texture. Being gluten-free, they cater to individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet. You can use flour tortillas or corn tortillas based on your personal preference. 

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh Cilantro - Adds brightness and freshness to the dish. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants and may have detoxifying properties.
• Avocado - Provides creaminess and healthy fats. Avocado is a nutrient-dense fruit rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting heart health and satiety.
• Green Onions - Offer a mild onion flavor and a pop of color. Green onions are low in calories and contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health and well-being.
• Jalapeños - Add the perfect crisp spice to the top of these vegan enchiladas. Jalapeños are rich in vitamins C and E, as well as antioxidants like capsanthin and quercetin.

See the recipe card for quantities.

How To Make The Best Vegan Enchiladas:

This vegan enchilada recipe is a great recipe to make during the week because it's easy to make and has that signature comfort factor.

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced red onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
   • Add sliced bell peppers, chopped mushrooms, and optional jalapeños to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
   • Season with chipotle powder, cayenne powder, cumin, chili powder, and sea salt for flavor depth.
2. Assembly:
   • Preheat your oven to 375.
   • Warm the gluten-free tortillas slightly to make them pliable.
   • Spread a layer of vegan refried beans on each tortilla.
   • Spoon the vegetable filling mixture onto each tortilla, followed by a dollop of Good Foods Nacho Cheeze Style Dip.
   • Roll up the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
3. Sauce and Bake:
   • Pour the red enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully coated.
   • Place the vegan enchiladas in the oven to bake for 20-30 minutes. 
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once out of the oven, remove the foil and let the enchiladas cool slightly at room temperature.
   • Top with Good Foods vegan nacho cheese sauce. 
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal.
   • Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade vegan enchiladas!

Substitutions:

There are a handful of substitutions that can be made to this vegan enchiladas recipe. Here are some of the common ones. 

• Vegetables - If there are any particular vegetables that you don't love in these vegan enchiladas, you can substitute them with other healthy vegetables. I love adding or substituting sweet potatoes, corn kernels, and broccoli for this recipe. 
• Enchilada Sauce - If you're not a fan of traditional red sauce, you can use a tomatillo salsa verde or a creamy avocado sauce in place of the red enchilada sauce. You can also use a chipotle sauce if you prefer something spicier.  
• Vegan Cheese Sauce - Good Foods has a variety of delicious plant-based cheese sauces. You can use their Spicy Queso Blanco Style dip or their Plant Based Queso Style Dip if you can't get your hands on their vegan nacho cheese sauce. 

If you have any questions about a particular substitution not listed, leave a comment, and I'll get back to you as quickly as possible!

Vegan Enchiladas Recipe Variations:

If you are looking for a delicious and fun way to mix up these plant-based enchiladas, the next time you make them, here are some different ways to make this recipe.

• High Protein - You can make a tofu filling to add additional protein to these vegan enchiladas. I like adding tofu to a food processor with the mushrooms and pulsing until it becomes a crumble. Then, add the crumble to the large skillet with the vegetables. You can also add this crumble to my Raw Vegan Taco Salad.
• Vegan Enchilada Casserole - If you're looking for a lazy way to make this vegan enchiladas recipe, you can make a casserole by adding chopped corn tortillas to the casserole dish along with the cooked vegetables and the red enchilada sauce and baking for 30 minutes. Once cooked, top it with the vegan nacho cheese sauce. 

Equipment:

To prepare the best vegan enchiladas, you'll need some essential kitchen equipment:

• Skillet or Saute Pan: Use this to sauté the vegetables and spices for the enchilada filling. Choose a skillet with a non-stick surface or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan for best results.
• Baking Dish: This is essential for baking the assembled enchiladas. Opt for a rectangular baking dish that comfortably fits the rolled enchiladas in a single layer. Glass or ceramic baking dishes are commonly used for enchiladas.
• Cooking Utensils: Have a set of cooking utensils on hand, including a spatula or wooden spoon for sautéing the vegetables, tongs for handling the tortillas, and a ladle or spoon for spreading the enchilada sauce.
• Cutting Board and Knife: Use a cutting board and knife to chop and prepare the vegetables for the enchilada filling, such as bell peppers, onions, garlic, and optional jalapeños.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurately measure the spices, olive oil, and other ingredients using measuring spoons and cups to ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your enchiladas.

As always, you can find all my go-to equipment on my Amazon storefront or my shop page.

Storage:

To store your vegan enchiladas and keep them fresh for later enjoyment, follow these steps:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the enchiladas to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the enchiladas soggy.
2. Divide into Portions (Optional): If you've made a large batch of enchiladas and don't plan to consume them all at once, consider dividing them into individual portions. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need later.
3. Transfer to an Airtight Container: Place the cooled enchiladas in an airtight container that is suitable for storing leftovers. Alternatively, you can use a shallow baking dish covered tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate: Store the enchiladas in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the refrigerator temperature is set to 40°F (4°C) or below to keep the enchiladas safe from bacterial growth.
5. Reheat Properly: When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the enchiladas in the microwave, oven, or stovetop until heated through. If using the microwave, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to prevent splattering.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once heated through, serve the enchiladas hot with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, avocado, or green onions. Enjoy the delicious flavors just like when they were freshly made!

By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your vegan enchiladas remain fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat for several days after preparation.

Top Tip:

One tip for making exceptional vegan enchiladas is to lightly toast the gluten-free tortillas before assembling the enchiladas. This simple step adds a layer of flavor and texture to the tortillas, making them more pliable and enhancing their overall taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Related Vegan Dinner Recipes:

Looking for more delicious vegan dinner recipes for busy weeknights? Make sure to check out some of the other recipes on my website!

If you try this Cheesy Veggie Enchiladas Recipe, I'd really love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. I'd also really appreciate a recipe card rating! Make sure to share it on social media and tag @theallnaturalvegan to be featured! Thank you for supporting The All Natural Vegan!`

More Vegan Mexican Food:

If you love vegan Mexican Food, make sure to check out some of the other delicious Mexican recipes on my website!