Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 8 small flour tortillas (6-inch)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk for a lighter sauce)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, drained
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Toss in the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux (it should look slightly golden but not browned). Slowly whisk in the half-and-half, making sure there are no lumps. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Sour Cream and Chilies: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream and diced green chilies. Mix until smooth and creamy. Turn off the heat.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Divide the cooked shrimp mixture and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly among the tortillas. Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Smother with Sauce and Bake: Pour the creamy sauce generously over the enchiladas, making sure they are completely covered. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness!
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and can become rubbery.
- You can use pre-cooked shrimp to speed things up, just sauté them lightly with the garlic and onion to warm them through.
- For extra spice, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
Keywords: shrimp, enchiladas, cream sauce, Mexican, seafood, cheese