Red Enchiladas and Gordita Plates Recipe (Authentic Mexican Comfort Food)

Written by

in

This Red Enchiladas and Gordita Plate combines two beloved Mexican classics: tender corn tortillas filled with cheese or meat and covered in a rich red chile sauce, paired with homemade gorditas stuffed with savory fillings. Served with beans, rice, and fresh toppings, this plate is a complete and satisfying Mexican-style meal.


Red Enchiladas

Ingredients

For the Red Chile Sauce

  • 8 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
  • 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • ยฝ white onion
  • 2 Roma tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp Mexican oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Enchiladas

  • 12โ€“14 corn tortillas
  • 3 cups shredded cheese
    (Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco)
  • 2 cups shredded chicken or cooked beef (optional)
  • 1 small white onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Make the Red Chile Sauce

  1. Toast dried chiles in a dry skillet for 20โ€“30 seconds per side.
  2. Soak chiles in hot water for 15โ€“20 minutes until softened.
  3. Blend chiles with garlic, onion, tomatoes, broth, vinegar, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Strain sauce for a smooth texture.
  5. Simmer sauce for 10โ€“15 minutes.

2. Assemble the Enchiladas

  1. Warm tortillas in a little oil until soft.
  2. Dip each tortilla into the red chile sauce.
  3. Fill with cheese, chicken, or beef.
  4. Roll and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
  5. Cover with extra sauce and cheese.
  6. Bake at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for 15โ€“20 minutes until hot and melted.

Homemade Gorditas

Ingredients

  • 3 cups masa harina
  • 2 cups warm water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (optional)

Gordita Fillings

Choose your favorite:

  • Carne guisada
  • Shredded beef
  • Chicken tinga
  • Chicharrรณn in salsa verde
  • Refried beans and cheese
  • Picadillo

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

  1. Mix masa harina, salt, and warm water.
  2. Knead until a soft dough forms.
  3. Let rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Divide into balls and flatten into thick discs.

2. Cook the Gorditas

  1. Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook gorditas for 3โ€“5 minutes per side until lightly golden.
  3. Let cool slightly.
  4. Slice open the side to create a pocket.
  5. Fill with your favorite meat, beans, cheese, and toppings.

Plate Assembly

Serve your Red Enchiladas and Gordita Plate with:

  • Mexican rice
  • Refried beans
  • Lettuce and tomato salad
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema
  • Queso fresco
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Pickled jalapeรฑos
  • Salsa verde
  • Avocado slices
  • Lime wedges

Tips for the Best Red Enchiladas & Gorditas

  • Use a mix of guajillo and ancho chiles for a balanced red sauce flavor.
  • Strain the chile sauce for a smooth restaurant-style finish.
  • Keep masa dough covered so it doesnโ€™t dry out.
  • Cook gorditas slowly so they develop a crispy outside and soft center.
  • Fresh toppings add brightness and balance to the rich flavors.

Storage

Enchiladas:

  • Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
  • Freezer: Up to 3 months

Gorditas:

  • Refrigerator: Up to 3 days
  • Freeze cooked gorditas for up to 2 months

Recommended SEO Heading:
Red Enchiladas and Gordita Plate Recipe (Authentic Mexican Dinner with Homemade Gorditas)

โœ•