Name: Shrimp Enchiladas with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 yellow onion, sliced; 2 jalapeños, sliced; 2 tomatoes on the vine, diced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 8 soft taco flour tortillas; 2 cups Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp enchiladas with cream sauce are a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home. The sauce is a silky combination of heavy cream and sour cream infused with chipotle chili powder, jalapeños, and tomatoes for a balanced kick. The enchiladas are creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish delivers every time.

Ingredients

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

Large shrimp
Vegetable oil
Yellow onion
Jalapeños
Tomatoes on the vine
Heavy whipping cream
Sour cream
Garlic cloves
Cayenne pepper
Chipotle chili powder
Cumin
Salt
Soft taco flour tortillas
Monterrey Jack cheese

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onions and jalapeños until softened.
Add the diced tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are fully softened.
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sour cream, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, cumin, and salt. Pour this mixture into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Add the shrimp to the sauce. Cook until they turn just opaque on both sides. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Divide half of the grated Monterrey Jack cheese among the tortillas. Top with the drained shrimp mixture, roll each tortilla tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining sauce over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
Bake in the oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: Include sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
Switch the protein: Use crab, lobster, or even cooked shredded chicken if shrimp isn’t your favorite.
Make it spicier: Add more chipotle chili powder or leave the jalapeño seeds in for an extra kick.
Use corn tortillas: If you prefer a gluten-free option, go for corn tortillas—just warm them first to prevent cracking.

Storage/Reheating

Shrimp enchiladas are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as seafood can become rubbery.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream sauce and shrimp texture.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the filling and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the sauce.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Monterrey Jack melts smoothly and has a mild flavor, making it ideal. You can also use a blend of Jack and cheddar.

How do I reduce the spiciness?

Remove the seeds from the jalapeños and reduce or omit the cayenne and chipotle powder.

Can I add rice or beans inside the enchiladas?

Absolutely. Cooked rice or black beans make great additions for a heartier meal.

What sides go well with shrimp enchiladas?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette.

Can I grill the shrimp first?

Yes, grilled shrimp add a smoky flavor. Just don’t overcook them since they’ll bake in the sauce afterward.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

You can try using dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives, though the flavor and texture may vary.

Do I need to peel and devein the shrimp?

Yes, for best texture and presentation, peel and devein the shrimp before cooking.

Conclusion

Shrimp enchiladas with cream sauce bring together the comfort of creamy, cheesy baked goodness with the bright flavors of fresh seafood and spices. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this flavorful dish is a showstopper that’s both simple and satisfying. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.