Smothered Burrito
Hearty burritos stuffed with seasoned ground beef and beans, then smothered in a rich red chili sauce and melted cheese. A satisfying Southwestern classic that's perfect for a crowd-pleasing dinner.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 45 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Red Chili Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Stir in 3 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and tomato sauce until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Beef Filling: In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- 4
Combine the Filling: Stir the refried beans into the cooked beef
- a.Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, dried oregano, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Assemble the Burritos: Warm the tortillas for 20-30 seconds in the microwave to make them pliable. Spoon about a quarter of the beef and bean filling into the center of each tortilla. Top the filling with about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. Place each burrito seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Smother and Bake: Pour the red chili sauce evenly over the assembled burritos, ensuring they are fully covered. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- 7
Garnish and Serve: Let the burritos rest for a few minutes before serving
- a.Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easier rolling, warm your tortillas for about 20-30 seconds in the microwave. This makes them soft and less likely to tear.
- 2Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in the baking dish to prevent them from unrolling while baking.
- 3For a crispier cheese topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
- 4Use a Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack for a great melt and flavor.
- 5This dish is great for meal prep. You can prepare the filling and sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat
Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken, pulled pork (carnitas), or ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
VegetarianVegetarian
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth in the sauce.
Add insAdd-ins
Mix in 1 cup of cooked rice, corn kernels, or diced bell peppers into the beef and bean filling for extra texture and nutrients.
SpicierSpicier
Add 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the red chili sauce, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef filling for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
The combination of ground beef and refried beans provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Protein also helps you feel full and satisfied.
Good Source of Fiber
Refried beans and onions are excellent sources of dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting heart health.
Rich in Iron
Ground beef is a significant source of heme iron, a type of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is vital for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, thus preventing fatigue and boosting energy levels.
Frequently asked questions
A single smothered burrito, as prepared in this recipe, contains approximately 750-850 calories. The exact number can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the fat content of the beef and the type of cheese.