Beef Enchilada Burritos

These Beef Enchilada Burritos are loaded with a savory, seasoned beef filling and melted cheese, wrapped in soft tortillas. After baking, they have a golden crispy edge that gives way to a tender, flavorful inside. The layers of cheese, beef, and enchilada sauce come together to create a mouthwatering comfort food dish.

The enchilada sauce adds just the right amount of heat, while the cheddar cheese brings a rich creaminess to every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or as a make-ahead meal, these burritos are guaranteed to be a hit!

Full Recipe:

1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning

1 cup enchilada sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced onions

4 large flour tortillas
1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon.
Add taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the beef is fully cooked and the seasoning is well incorporated.
Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce, mixing thoroughly.

Warm the flour tortillas in a separate pan or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable.
Spoon the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then top with shredded cheddar cheese and a drizzle of the remaining enchilada sauce.
Roll up the tortillas, folding in the sides to create burritos.

Place the burritos seam-side down in a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the burritos are heated through.
Optionally, garnish with sour cream and cilantro before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origin

The origins of enchiladas can be traced back to ancient Mexico, where corn tortillas were rolled around fillings and covered with chili sauces. The term “enchilada” comes from the Spanish verb enchilar, meaning “to season with chili.” Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating various regional ingredients, such as beef, chicken, cheese, and beans. While enchiladas are typically served as a dish of rolled tortillas filled with savory fillings and bathed in chili sauce, the modern adaptation of enchilada burritos emerged from the fusion of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines.

The burrito, in contrast, is believed to have originated in northern Mexico and was named for its resemblance to a “little donkey” (burro in Spanish), due to its cylindrical shape. The concept of the burrito evolved from the larger, more portable meals prepared by Mexican farm workers, making it an easy and convenient way to transport meals.

As Mexican and Tex-Mex foods gained popularity in the United States, chefs started incorporating various fillings into burritos. The idea of combining enchiladas and burritos was born when chefs in the Southwest began rolling enchilada fillings in flour tortillas, creating the now-famous Beef Enchilada Burritos. This dish combines the flavor profile of traditional enchiladas with the convenience of a burrito, making it a go-to option for families seeking a hearty meal.

Variations and Adaptations

Though Beef Enchilada Burritos are delicious in their traditional form, there are plenty of variations to explore, each offering a unique twist on this beloved dish.

Vegetarian Enchilada Burritos: For a vegetarian option, ground beef can be replaced with a variety of plant-based alternatives such as black beans, lentils, or tofu. These replacements provide a hearty and satisfying texture while maintaining the rich flavors of the enchilada sauce and melted cheese.
Chicken Enchilada Burritos: Chicken is a popular alternative to beef in Mexican cuisine, and it makes for an excellent substitution in this recipe. Simply cook and shred chicken breast, and follow the same steps as the beef version. The light, lean meat pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of enchilada sauce.
Spicy Beef Enchilada Burritos: For those who enjoy an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. This variation increases the spice level, making it a favorite for those who enjoy fiery flavors.

Smothered Enchilada Burritos: To take the flavor up a notch, some people like to smother their burritos with extra enchilada sauce before baking. This makes the dish extra saucy and flavorful, perfect for those who enjoy a saucier burrito.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can mix things up by incorporating other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even crumbled queso fresco for added flavor and texture.
Different Tortillas: Traditionally, large flour tortillas are used for burritos, but you can also experiment with whole wheat, spinach, or tomato tortillas for added flavor and nutritional value.

Each of these variations reflects the flexibility and creativity that Mexican cuisine encourages. Whether you’re sticking to the original recipe or making your own tweaks, Beef Enchilada Burritos are always a delicious choice.

Nutritional Information

Beef Enchilada Burritos offer a balanced combination of macronutrients, though they should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

Calories: One serving of Beef Enchilada Burritos typically contains around 450-500 calories. This is a moderate-calorie dish, making it suitable for a filling lunch or dinner.
Protein: Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, and one serving of Beef Enchilada Burritos can provide 25-30 grams of protein. This makes the dish great for supporting muscle repair and growth.

Fat: Depending on the cut of beef used, the fat content in Beef Enchilada Burritos can range from 20 to 30 grams per serving, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Opting for leaner beef can reduce the overall fat content.
Carbohydrates: Flour tortillas, which are the base of this dish, contribute about 40-45 grams of carbohydrates per serving. While this offers an energy boost, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes if you’re following a low-carb diet.
Fiber: While Beef Enchilada Burritos aren’t particularly high in fiber, you can increase the fiber content by incorporating beans, vegetables, or whole-wheat tortillas.

Micronutrients: This dish is rich in calcium due to the cheese, and the beef provides important minerals like iron and zinc. If you add vegetables like onions or bell peppers, you can also increase the vitamin content.

While Beef Enchilada Burritos are delicious, they do contain a fair amount of sodium, so it’s a good idea to adjust the amount of salt or use low-sodium enchilada sauce if you’re looking to reduce your sodium intake.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Beef Enchilada Burritos are versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes to complete the meal. Here are a few serving ideas:

Mexican Rice: A classic pairing for enchiladas and burritos, Mexican rice is flavorful and complements the rich, cheesy burritos perfectly. The lightness of the rice contrasts well with the heartiness of the beef and cheese.

Refried Beans or Black Beans: Beans add a rich, creamy texture and are a great source of fiber. Refried beans or black beans are common sides in Mexican cuisine and will complement the burritos beautifully.
Guacamole and Salsa: Fresh guacamole and a zesty salsa are the perfect accompaniments for any Mexican-inspired dish. They add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the burritos.
Grilled Vegetables: If you want to add a lighter, healthier touch to the meal, grilled vegetables like peppers, zucchini, or corn on the cob can balance the dish with their smoky flavors.

Crisp Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also serve as a refreshing contrast to the richness of the burritos, adding crunch and freshness.

For drinks, consider pairing the burritos with a refreshing glass of margarita, iced tea, or a cold beer. The acidity of the margarita or beer will cut through the richness of the burritos, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Beef Enchilada Burritos turn out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:

Brown the Beef Properly: When cooking the ground beef, be sure to brown it completely to develop rich, deep flavors. This step is essential for the best taste.

Warm the Tortillas: To prevent them from tearing when rolling, warm your flour tortillas in the microwave or on a hot pan for a few seconds before filling them. This makes them more pliable and easier to work with.
Don’t Overstuff the Burritos: When filling the tortillas, avoid overstuffing them. It’s tempting to add too much filling, but overstuffed burritos are difficult to roll and can result in a messy dish.
Bake Until Golden and Crispy: To achieve that golden, crispy texture on the edges of your burritos, make sure to bake them long enough until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are slightly crispy.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients, such as fresh tortillas, cheese, and homemade enchilada sauce, will elevate your Beef Enchilada Burritos to the next level. It’s worth the extra effort!

Potential Health Benefits

While Beef Enchilada Burritos may not be classified as a “health food,” they do offer some nutritional benefits:

Protein: The beef provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune function.
Iron and Zinc: Beef is rich in iron, which is essential for red blood cell production, and zinc, which supports immune function and skin health.
Calcium: The cheese in the burritos offers a boost of calcium, essential for bone health and muscle function.

To make the dish healthier, you can opt for leaner cuts of beef, whole wheat tortillas, or add extra veggies to increase fiber content.

Conclusion

Beef Enchilada Burritos are a flavorful, satisfying, and customizable meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner after a long day or feeding a crowd, these burritos are sure to impress. Their combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce wrapped in a warm tortilla makes them a crowd favorite. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a meal that’s as delicious as it is comforting!