How Long to Cook Enchiladas
Assembled enchiladas with tortillas, filling, sauce, and cheese. Chicken, beef, cheese, or bean.
The Short Answer
Assembled enchiladas with tortillas, filling, sauce, and cheese. Chicken, beef, cheese, or bean. Cook to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
Cooking Methods
🔥 Oven
Temperature: 375°F
Time: 20–25 minutes
Cover with foil for the first 15 minutes to heat through, then remove foil for the last 5-10 minutes to let the cheese brown and bubble.
Rest: 5 minutes
✈️ Air Fryer
Temperature: 350°F
Time: 8–12 minutes
Individual enchiladas only. Place seam-side down. The air fryer heats them quickly and crisps the edges. Not practical for a full pan.
Rest: 3 minutes
Briefly frying the corn tortillas in oil for 5 seconds per side before assembling prevents them from turning to mush in the sauce. This one extra step is the difference between enchiladas that hold together and enchiladas that fall apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most enchilada recipes bake at 375 degrees F for 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil initially so the tortillas do not dry out, then uncover to brown the cheese.
Yes. Assemble, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since they are starting cold. You can also freeze assembled enchiladas for up to 3 months.
Either the tortillas were not warmed or lightly fried before filling (raw tortillas absorb sauce and become mushy), or you used too much sauce. A quick dip in oil firms up the tortilla.
The Bottom Line
Enchiladas cooking times vary by method and thickness. Always verify doneness with a thermometer reading 165 degrees F. The times above are guidelines; your specific results depend on the size and starting temperature of your food.