Copycat of An Old Classic – The Enchirito

This Copycat Enchirito recipe brings a nostalgic twist to a beloved classic! Combining seasoned ground beef and creamy refried beans, it’s all wrapped up in soft flour tortillas and smothered in a rich, homemade red chile sauce.

Topped with gooey cheese and finished off with black olives, this dish is a comforting favorite that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Enjoy a taste of your childhood with this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to satisfy!

Copycat of An Old Classic – The Enchirito

Ingredients

For the Filling:

1 lb ground beef

1 can refried beans (15 oz)

1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

4 large flour tortillas

For the Quick Red Chile Sauce:

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

2 cloves garlic (minced)

2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock)

Salt to taste

For Topping:

1-2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)

12 black olives (sliced)

Optional: sour cream or chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Make the Red Chile Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, combine chili powder, cumin, and minced garlic over medium heat. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Gradually whisk in the chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Season with salt to taste.

Prepare the Filling:

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the refried beans, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until heated through and well combined.

Assemble the Enchiritos:

Lay a tortilla flat and spoon some of the beef and bean mixture in the center.

Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.

Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Top and Bake:

Pour the red chile sauce over the assembled enchiritos.

Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top, then drizzle a little more sauce over the cheese.

Place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly (or microwave for a few seconds if using regular plates).

Serve:

Garnish with sliced black olives and any additional toppings like sour cream or cilantro.

Enjoy your homemade Enchirito!

Feel free to tweak the spices and toppings to suit your taste!

Notes:

Beef Alternatives: Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Beans Variety: You can use black beans, pinto beans, or even a bean medley instead of refried beans for a different texture and flavor.

Sauce Customization: If you prefer a milder sauce, adjust the amount of chili powder, or use a store-bought enchilada sauce to save time.

Toppings: Enhance your Enchirito with fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or chopped green onions for added freshness.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Broiling Tip: Keep a close eye on the dish while broiling to prevent burning; it only takes a minute or two for the cheese to get bubbly.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and sauce in advance.

Assemble the enchiritos and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

What can I use instead of flour tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist.

Just be aware that corn tortillas may be more delicate, so you may need to warm them slightly before filling.

How spicy is the red chile sauce?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder you use.

If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and taste as you go.

Can I freeze the enchiritos?

Yes, you can freeze assembled enchiritos before baking.

Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container.

When ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

What can I serve with enchiritos?

Enchiritos pair well with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.

You can also serve them with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.

Do I have to use ground beef?

No, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.

Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different proteins.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the red chile sauce ahead of time.

Store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

Just reheat before using.

What if I don’t have chili powder?

If you don’t have chili powder, you can create a substitute using a combination of paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Adjust to taste based on your preferred spice level.

Can I bake the enchiritos instead of broiling?

Yes, you can bake the assembled enchiritos at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted, instead of using the broiler.

This is a great option if you’re using non-oven-safe dishes.

What are the best methods for achieving a balanced flavor profile in the red chile sauce?

To attain a well-rounded flavor, it is advisable to sauté the spices (chili powder and cumin) briefly in oil prior to adding the liquid.

This process, known as “blooming,” enhances the spices’ aromatic compounds, resulting in a more robust and complex sauce.

How can I ensure the tortillas remain pliable during assembly?

It is recommended to warm the tortillas slightly in a dry skillet or microwave prior to filling.

This method reduces the likelihood of tearing during the rolling process, thus facilitating easier assembly of the enchiritos.

What adjustments can be made to accommodate dietary restrictions?

For gluten-free alternatives, one may substitute flour tortillas with certified gluten-free corn tortillas.

Additionally, the protein source can be varied; for instance, ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute can be utilized to cater to specific dietary preferences.

How can the texture of the filling be optimized?

To enhance the filling’s consistency, ensure that the refried beans and ground beef are well-integrated and heated thoroughly before assembly.

This practice not only improves texture but also ensures a uniform distribution of flavors.

What techniques can be employed to effectively broil the enchiritos without burning?

It is crucial to maintain vigilance during the broiling process, as it typically requires only a minute or two.

Position the rack near the top of the oven and monitor the enchiritos closely to prevent overcooking.

If using ceramic or glass dishes, be mindful of temperature limits to avoid damage.