Enchiladas

Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle

Name: Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; 1/4 cup (60g) olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin; 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream; 8-10 corn tortillas; 1 cup (120g) shredded queso fresco

By Opal Ingram · June 19, 2026 · Enchiladas

Prep30 min

Cook25 min

Total55 min

Serves6

Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle, a classic Mexican dish that combines the flavors of succulent shrimp, smoky chipotle peppers, and rich, creamy sauce, all wrapped up in tender tortillas. This recipe is a staple of my family's gatherings and celebrations, and I'm excited to share it with you.

Growing up in a Mexican household in San Antonio, I was surrounded by the sights, smells, and tastes of traditional Mexican cuisine. My abuela would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully preparing each ingredient and cooking dish with love and care. Her Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle were always a hit, and I would often help her assemble the dish, learning the techniques and tricks that made it so special.

What makes this recipe special is the combination of flavors and textures. The smokiness of the chipotle peppers pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the shrimp, while the creamy sauce adds a richness and depth to the dish. The best part is that it's relatively easy to make, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

This recipe is for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine and wants to try something new and exciting. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll find that this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal special equipment. So, let's get started and make some delicious Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle!

One of the things I love about this recipe is the versatility. You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as rice, beans, or roasted vegetables, and it's also great as a main dish on its own. The leftovers are also fantastic, and can be reheated and served the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal special equipment
The combination of flavors and textures is unique and exciting
The dish is perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal
The leftovers are fantastic and can be reheated and served the next day
The recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides
The technique of toasting the chiles and spices is fun and rewarding
The use of high-quality ingredients makes the dish healthy and sustainable

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the balance of flavors and textures. The smokiness of the chipotle peppers adds a depth and complexity to the dish, while the creamy sauce helps to balance out the heat. The shrimp are cooked to perfection, with a tender and juicy texture that pairs perfectly with the sauce and tortillas.

The technique of toasting the chiles and spices is also important, as it helps to bring out the flavors and aromas of the ingredients. By dry-roasting the chiles and spices, we are able to unlock their full potential and add a richness and depth to the dish.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of high-quality ingredients. Fresh, sustainable shrimp and ripe, flavorful tomatoes make a big difference in the final product. By using the best ingredients we can find, we are able to create a dish that is not only delicious, but also healthy and sustainable.

Finally, the resting time is crucial in this recipe. By letting the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving, we allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to set, making the dish even more delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you will need a few key ingredients, including succulent shrimp, smoky chipotle peppers, and rich, creamy sauce. You will also need some basic pantry staples, such as olive oil, garlic, and spices. Be sure to choose the freshest ingredients you can find, as they will make a big difference in the final product.

When shopping for the ingredients, look for sustainable and responsibly-sourced options whenever possible. This will not only ensure that your dish is delicious, but also that it is healthy and sustainable.

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveinedFresh, sustainable shrimp are essential for this recipe. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a sweet, slightly salty flavor.
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauceChipotle peppers have a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp. Look for peppers that are tender and have a deep red color.
1/4 cup (60g) olive oilOlive oil is used to toast the chiles and spices, and to cook the shrimp. Choose a high-quality oil with a mild flavor.
4 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a pungent flavor to the dish, and is essential for the sauce. Look for garlic that is firm and has a sweet, slightly nutty flavor.
1 tsp (5g) ground cuminCumin has a warm, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and chipotle peppers. Look for cumin that is freshly ground and has a vibrant, orange color.
1 tsp (5g) smoked paprikaSmoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to the dish, and is essential for the sauce. Look for paprika that is freshly ground and has a rich, reddish-brown color.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt enhances the flavors of the dish, and is essential for the sauce. Look for salt that is freshly ground and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a sharp, pungent flavor to the dish, and is essential for the sauce. Look for pepper that is freshly ground and has a vibrant, black color.
2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flourFlour is used to thicken the sauce, and is essential for the dish. Look for flour that is freshly milled and has a light, airy texture.
1 cup (240ml) heavy creamHeavy cream adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce, and is essential for the dish. Look for cream that is freshly opened and has a smooth, velvety texture.
8-10 corn tortillasCorn tortillas are used to wrap the enchiladas, and are essential for the dish. Look for tortillas that are freshly made and have a soft, pliable texture.
1 cup (120g) shredded queso frescoQueso fresco adds a tangy, slightly salty flavor to the dish, and is essential for the sauce. Look for cheese that is freshly made and has a crumbly, white texture.

Ingredients for Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardInstant-read thermometerSaucepanWhiskSpatula

How to Make Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Toast the chiles and spices in a dry skillet over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly puffed, about 2-3 minutes.
3
Add the garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and slightly softened, about 1 minute.
4
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5
Transfer the shrimp to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
6
Add the flour to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted and fragrant, about 1 minute.
7
Gradually add the heavy cream to the skillet, whisking constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 2-3 minutes.
8
Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1 minute.
9
Add the queso fresco to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
10
To assemble the enchiladas, lay a tortilla flat and spoon some of the sauce down the center of the tortilla.
11
Add a few shrimp on top of the sauce and sprinkle with some of the queso fresco.
12
Roll the tortilla up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
13
Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling ingredients.
14
Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the enchiladas and sprinkle with the remaining queso fresco.
15
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Expert Tips

Use fresh, sustainable ingredients whenever possible.
Toast the chiles and spices in a dry skillet to bring out their flavors and aromas.
Don't overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Use a high-quality olive oil with a mild flavor to cook the shrimp and sauce.
Add the flour gradually to the sauce, whisking constantly, to prevent lumps from forming.
Use a sharp chef's knife to chop the garlic and spices, as this will help to release their flavors and aromas.
Don't overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and can cause the filling to spill out during baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the shrimp, which can make them tough and rubbery.
Not toasting the chiles and spices, which can result in a flavorless sauce.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not whisking the sauce constantly, which can result in lumps forming.
Overfilling the tortillas, which can make them difficult to roll and can cause the filling to spill out during baking.
Not covering the dish with foil during baking, which can cause the top to brown too quickly and the sauce to dry out.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as Oaxaca or Cheddar, for a unique flavor profile.
Add some chopped fresh cilantro or scallions to the sauce for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Use different types of protein, such as chicken or beef, for a variation on the dish.
Add some diced tomatoes or roasted vegetables to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use gluten-free flour to make the sauce, for a gluten-free version of the dish.
Add some heat to the sauce with diced jalapenos or serrano peppers.

What to Serve With Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle

Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle are best served hot, garnished with some chopped fresh cilantro, scallions, or sour cream. You can also serve them with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Some other ideas for serving this dish include:

Serving it with a side of tortilla chips or tostadas, for a fun and casual snack or appetizer.

Serving it with a side of grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken or steak, for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Serving it with a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, for a healthy and balanced meal.

Tortilla chipsMexican riceBeansRoasted vegetablesGrilled or roasted meatsSautéed or steamed vegetables

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Enchiladas De Camarones Al Chipotle can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

To store in the fridge, simply assemble the enchiladas and place them in a covered dish. Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.

To freeze, assemble the enchiladas and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label and date the bag or container, and store in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

To reheat, simply bake the enchiladas in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Some tips for reheating include:

Using a low oven temperature to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Covering the dish with foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.

Serving the enchiladas hot, garnished with some chopped fresh cilantro or scallions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of large shrimp, such as Gulf Coast or Pacific white shrimp. Just be sure to choose shrimp that are fresh and have a sweet, slightly salty flavor.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese, such as Oaxaca or Cheddar, for a unique flavor profile. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well and has a mild flavor.

How do I prevent the sauce from drying out during baking?

To prevent the sauce from drying out, be sure to cover the dish with foil during baking. You can also add a little extra cream or cheese to the sauce to keep it moist and creamy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply assemble the enchiladas and store them in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to bake them.

What type of tortillas should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of corn tortilla, such as yellow or white corn. Just be sure to choose tortillas that are fresh and have a soft, pliable texture.

How do I reheat the enchiladas?

To reheat the enchiladas, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the sauce.

Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the sauce, such as diced onions or bell peppers, for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to choose ingredients that complement the flavor of the shrimp and cheese.

How do I prevent the enchiladas from falling apart during baking?

To prevent the enchiladas from falling apart during baking, be sure to assemble them carefully and place them in a single layer in the baking dish. You can also use a little extra cheese or cream to hold the enchiladas together during baking.

The Full Recipe

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