Smothered Burrito

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🌮 Smothered Burrito Recipe

📖 Description

A Smothered Burrito (also called a “wet burrito”) is a hearty Mexican-inspired dish where a flour tortilla is stuffed with seasoned meat, beans, and rice, then rolled up and smothered with a rich enchilada-style sauce and melted cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, this comfort food is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

📝 Ingredients

  • For the burrito filling:

    • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or shredded chicken, pork, or turkey)

    • 1 cup cooked rice

    • 1 cup refried beans (or whole black beans)

    • 1 medium onion, diced

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)

    • ½ cup salsa

  • For the smothering sauce:

    • 2 cups red enchilada sauce (or green, depending on preference)

    • ½ cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)

  • Assembly:

    • 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)

    • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)

    • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

    • Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, guacamole, or extra sour cream

🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling:

    • Heat a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until browned.

    • Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and salsa.

    • Add rice and beans, mixing until everything is well combined.

  2. Assemble burritos:

    • Lay a tortilla flat, spoon filling down the center, and roll tightly, folding in the sides.

    • Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

  3. Smother and bake:

    • Pour enchilada sauce evenly over burritos.

    • Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.

    • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and melted.

  4. Garnish and serve:

    • Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then top with cilantro and optional toppings.

🍴 Servings

  • Makes 4 large smothered burritos (can be cut in half for 6–8 portions).

🧾 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 620 kcal

  • Protein: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 55g

  • Fat: 28g

  • Fiber: 8g

  • Sodium: 1350mg

(Values will vary depending on toppings and portion size.)

💡 Notes

  • You can use chicken, pork, or vegetarian fillings instead of beef.

  • For a creamier sauce, mix enchilada sauce with sour cream or heavy cream before pouring.

  • Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked before serving.

🔑 Tips

  • Warm tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent tearing.

  • Double the recipe and freeze unbaked burritos (wrapped tightly in foil).

  • For a spicier kick, use green chile enchilada sauce or add extra jalapeños.

🌟 Health Benefits

  • Protein-rich from beef, beans, and cheese.

  • Fiber boost from beans and rice.

  • Homemade version is healthier than restaurant burritos because you control sodium and fat.

  • Can be made lighter by using whole wheat tortillas, lean meat, or low-fat cheese.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the burritos, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add sauce and cheese right before baking.

Q: Can I freeze smothered burritos?
A: Yes. Wrap unbaked burritos in foil, freeze, then bake from frozen with extra sauce and cheese.

Q: What’s the difference between a burrito and a smothered burrito?
A: A regular burrito is served wrapped and handheld, while a smothered burrito is baked in sauce and cheese, eaten with a fork.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Skip the meat and double the beans, rice, and veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.

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