Air Fryer Enchiladas: Perfect Timing For A Quick Meal

Enchiladas are a delicious Mexican dish that can be cooked in an air fryer. The cooking time will depend on how crispy you like your tortillas, but generally, they will take between 5 and 15 minutes to cook in an air fryer. If you're using a different brand of air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking times accordingly. In this article, we will explore the best methods for cooking enchiladas in an air fryer, including the ideal temperature and cooking time, as well as some tips and tricks to ensure your enchiladas are perfectly crispy and delicious every time.

Air frying time and temperature

The air frying time and temperature for enchiladas depends on the type of air fryer you have, the ingredients you use, and how crispy you like your enchiladas.

Most sources suggest cooking enchiladas in an air fryer for 5-15 minutes. One source recommends cooking them for 5 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, while another suggests 10-15 minutes at 360F/180C. If you want your enchiladas to be crispy, you may need to cook them for longer, and you should cook them uncovered so the tortilla crisps up at the edges.

If you're using a different brand of air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking time. For example, if you're using a 1700-watt basket-style 5.8-qt Cosori air fryer, you may need to cook your enchiladas for less time than if you're using a smaller or less powerful air fryer.

To prevent your enchiladas from becoming soggy, you can use corn tortillas, avoid using too much sauce, and cook them as quickly as possible so they don't absorb too much liquid.

How to avoid soggy enchiladas

Air fryer enchiladas are cooked in 5-15 minutes, depending on the recipe and your desired crispiness. To avoid soggy enchiladas, try the following:

• Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
• Avoid using too much sauce.
• Cook them as quickly as possible so they don't have time to absorb liquid.
• Reheat in the air fryer instead of the microwave, which can make them soggy.
• If you're reheating, use a small piece of foil to line the air fryer basket to minimise cleanup.
• Reheat in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• If you like your enchiladas extra crispy, cook them for an extra minute or two, but be careful not to overcook them.

Chicken enchilada filling

Enchiladas can be cooked in the air fryer for 5-15 minutes, depending on how crispy you like them.

Chicken enchiladas are a great way to use up leftover chicken. For the filling, you can sauté garlic and onion, then mix in refried beans, corn, and chopped or shredded chicken. You can also add cumin, chilli powder, and oregano to taste. If you want to add extra flavour, coat the chicken in an enchilada spice mix before searing.

You can also add green chiles, black beans, and shredded cheese to the filling. If you want to make a vegetarian enchilada, you can swap out the chicken for refried beans, white beans, butternut squash, or zucchini.

Once the filling is prepared, you can assemble the enchiladas in the air fryer. Make sure to put the folded side down so that the filling stays inside as it cooks.

Toppings and sides

Once the filling is prepared, enchiladas can be cooked in the air fryer for 5-15 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on how crispy you like your enchiladas. If you like them very crispy, cook them for 15 minutes at 360F/180C. If you prefer them less crispy, 5 minutes at 350F should be enough.

When it comes to toppings and sides, the options are endless. You could top your enchiladas with any remaining cheese, sour cream, and fresh chopped cilantro. If you want to add some spice, saute onions and bell peppers until soft, then add garlic, shredded chicken, cumin, and chili powder. You could also add refried beans and enchilada sauce to this mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, serve your enchiladas with a side salad. Or, if you're feeling indulgent, serve them with chips.

If you're making chicken enchiladas, you can change up the flavours by substituting beef for chicken. You could also try using corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to avoid sogginess. Another tip to prevent sogginess is to avoid using too much sauce.

Enchiladas in the air fryer are reasonably healthy but should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You can prepare the filling and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, assemble the enchiladas in the air fryer and enjoy!

Freezing and storing

If you want to freeze your enchiladas, it's best to assemble them first and then place them in strong baking foil that has been sprayed with oil. Top with cheese, then cover with plastic film before covering with foil. You can freeze enchiladas for up to three months or refrigerate them for a day before cooking.

When you're ready to cook your frozen enchiladas, place them in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-15 minutes at 360F/180C, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy at the edges. If you're using a different brand of air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking time.

If you want to store your enchiladas in the fridge, you can prepare the filling and store it in an airtight container for up to three days. When you're ready to cook, assemble the enchiladas in the air fryer and follow the cooking instructions above.

It's worth noting that enchiladas in the air fryer are reasonably healthy but should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If your enchiladas are always soggy, try using corn tortillas, avoiding too much sauce, and cooking them as quickly as possible so they don't have time to absorb liquid.

Frequently asked questions