Easy Beef Burritos with Enchilada Sauce
Burritos are a versatile and delicious meal that can be filled with a variety of savory ingredients. This recipe for Beef Burritos with Enchilada Sauce combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and a flavorful sauce to create a hearty dish perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch. The addition of enchilada sauce adds a rich, tangy kick, making each bite burst with flavor. Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering burritos!
Ingredients
- For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- ½ cup onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp pepper
- 1 can (4.5 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 can (18 oz) refried beans
- 1 can (15 oz) chili without beans
- For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.75 oz) Campbell’s tomato soup
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- For Assembly:
- 6 whole wheat tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Mexican cheese (shredded)
Cooking the Beef Filling
To begin, prepare the beef filling that will serve as the heart of your burrito.
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Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly. -
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion to the pan with the beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its fragrance. -
Season the Meat:
Once the onions are cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. Season the beef with cumin, salt, and pepper, and mix well. Add the diced green chilies and refried beans to the pan. Stir everything together until the beans are well incorporated and the mixture is fully combined. Allow the filling to cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat. Keep the beef filling warm.
Preparing the Sauce
While the beef mixture is cooking, prepare the savory enchilada sauce to drizzle over the burritos.
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Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the chili without beans, tomato soup, and enchilada sauce. Stir the ingredients together until smooth and well blended. -
Heat the Sauce:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a simmer. Stir occasionally, allowing it to warm through and combine the flavors. This should take about 5 minutes. Once the sauce is heated, remove it from the heat.
Assembling the Burritos
Now that the beef filling and sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the burritos.
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Warm the Tortillas:
To make them pliable, warm the tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or on a skillet for a minute or two on each side. This will help them become soft and easier to roll without cracking. -
Fill the Tortillas:
Lay out each tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Be sure to leave enough space on the edges for folding. -
Add Sauce and Toppings:
Drizzle some of the prepared enchilada sauce over the beef mixture. Then, top with shredded lettuce and a handful of Mexican cheese for a melty finish. You can also add sour cream, diced tomatoes, or avocado for extra flavor if you prefer. -
Roll the Burritos:
Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom up, securing the filling inside. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Final Touches
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Microwave to Heat:
Place the assembled burritos in the microwave for 30-45 seconds to heat them through. The cheese will melt, and the burrito will be warm and ready to eat. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your beef burritos hot with extra sauce on the side. Garnish with additional shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness. Enjoy them alongside your favorite Mexican side dishes like rice, guacamole, or chips!
Tips for the Perfect Beef Burritos
- Beef Alternatives: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
- Customize the Sauce: If you like your burritos spicier, add a dash of hot sauce, jalapeños, or chili powder to the sauce mixture to boost the heat.
- Add More Veggies: You can mix in other veggies like bell peppers or corn to the beef filling for added flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the beef filling and sauce in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them before assembling the burritos.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use flour tortillas instead of whole wheat tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas work just as well in this recipe if you prefer a softer, milder taste. However, whole wheat tortillas provide a slightly nuttier flavor and are a healthier alternative.
Can I make these burritos vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like black beans, lentils, or a veggie crumbles mix. You can also load up on extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to make a hearty vegetarian filling.
How can I make these burritos spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding more diced green chilies, a chopped jalapeño, or some chili flakes to the beef filling. For a spicier sauce, try adding hot sauce or a few dashes of cayenne pepper to the enchilada sauce.
Can I freeze these burritos?
Yes, these burritos can be frozen for later use. After assembling them, wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes or microwave them until heated through.
Can I make this recipe without the tomato soup?
If you don’t have tomato soup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of tomato sauce. The tomato soup adds a creamy, slightly sweet flavor, but tomato sauce will provide a similar base for the sauce.
These Beef Burritos with Enchilada Sauce are a quick, flavorful, and customizable dish that’s perfect for feeding the whole family. The savory beef filling, rich enchilada sauce, and fresh toppings combine to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these burritos are sure to be a hit. Enjoy!