The Taco Bell Enchirito is a fusion of an enchilada and a burrito, featuring a soft flour tortilla filled with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and diced onions, all smothered in a rich red enchilada sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. This nostalgic dish has been a fan favorite for decades, and while it has disappeared from the Taco Bell menu at times, you can easily recreate it at home.
The key to a perfect Enchirito lies in the seasoning of the beef, the smooth texture of the refried beans, and the balance of flavors in the enchilada sauce. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a fun weekend meal, this homemade version delivers all the comforting flavors you love.
You can find a detailed recipe here.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried minced onion
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of garlic powder
- ½ cup water
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1½ teaspoons minced onions
For the Enchirito Assembly:
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup diced white onions
- Black olive slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Filling
- In a bowl, mix flour, chili powder, salt, minced onion, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain excess grease and stir in the spice mixture along with ½ cup water.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Make the Enchilada Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, water, vinegar, garlic powder, garlic salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, and minced onions.
- Simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Warm the Tortillas & Beans
- Heat the refried beans in the microwave or on the stovetop until smooth and spreadable.
- Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
- Assemble the Enchirito
- Spread ¼ cup of refried beans onto each tortilla.
- Add ¼ cup of seasoned beef on top of the beans.
- Sprinkle with diced onions and roll the tortilla burrito-style, tucking in the ends.
- Top with Sauce & Cheese
- Place the rolled enchiritos seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Spoon enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake & Serve
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with black olive slices if desired.
- Serve warm with sour cream or extra sauce on the side.
Tips & Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or jalapeños for extra heat.
- Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the beef and sauce in advance for quicker assembly.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute black beans or sautéed mushrooms for the beef.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito is a cheesy, saucy, and satisfying dish that brings fast-food nostalgia straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re recreating a childhood favorite or discovering it for the first time, this recipe delivers bold flavors and comforting textures. Try different variations to make it uniquely yours!
You can find more details here.