Mexican Enchirito

This Mexican Enchirito is a delightful fusion of classic burritos and enchiladas, offering a savory and cheesy meal with a touch of Mexican flair. With a hearty filling of seasoned ground beef and refried beans, all wrapped in soft flour tortillas and topped with zesty red enchilada sauce and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend treat, the Enchirito brings together the best of both worlds in a deliciously simple way.

Mexican Enchirito

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef

¼ cup finely diced onion

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

¼ cup beef broth, or water

1 (16 oz) can refried beans

4 burrito-sized flour tortillas

1 cup red enchilada sauce

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

Cook the Beef: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion, taco seasoning, and beef broth, breaking up the meat as it cooks until it is fully browned. Set the mixture aside.

Prepare the Beans: Heat the refried beans in the microwave or on the stovetop until they are thoroughly warmed.

Warm the Tortillas: Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30 seconds to soften.

Assemble the Burritos: Spread a quarter of the refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top with a quarter of the beef mixture. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up from one end to form a burrito. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas.

Microwave Option: Heat the assembled burritos in the microwave for 1 minute to ensure they are heated through. Pour the red enchilada sauce over the burritos and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Microwave for an additional 1 minute, or until the cheese is melted.

Oven Option: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the burritos in an oven-safe dish. Pour the red enchilada sauce over the burritos and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. For a quicker melt, use the broiler for about 30 seconds.

This version of the classic Mexican Enchirito offers a deliciously simple way to enjoy a comforting, cheesy dish with minimal effort.

Notes:

Meat Alternatives: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using black beans or a meat substitute.

Seasoning: Adjust the taco seasoning according to your taste preference. For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped garlic or a pinch of chili powder.

Bean Preparation: If you prefer homemade refried beans, you can use those instead of canned. Just make sure they are well-seasoned and heated before using.

Tortilla Tips: Warming the tortillas helps prevent them from tearing when you roll them. If you don’t have a microwave, you can heat them in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven.

Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.

Sauce Options: For a spicier version, you can use a hot enchilada sauce or add some diced green chilies to the sauce.

Baking Tips: If you prefer a crispier top, use the broiler to melt the cheese quickly, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble the burritos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, follow the microwave or oven instructions for reheating.

Freezing: These burritos can also be frozen before baking. Wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap, freeze, and bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a meat substitute for a different flavor or a lighter option.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can use water or chicken broth as a substitute for beef broth.

For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth or a splash of soy sauce.

Can I use homemade refried beans?

Yes, homemade refried beans work well in this recipe. Just ensure they are well-seasoned and heated before using.

How can I prevent the tortillas from tearing?

Warm the tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet before filling them.

This makes them more pliable and less likely to tear when rolling.

What cheese can I use besides cheddar?

You can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.

Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I make the Enchirito ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the burritos and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

Follow the reheating instructions for either the microwave or oven when ready to serve.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Use a hot enchilada sauce, add chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture, or mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Can I freeze the Mexican Enchirito?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled burritos.

Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze.

When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

How long do I need to bake the burritos if frozen?

If baking from frozen, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burritos are heated through.

You might need to cover them with foil to prevent over-browning.