The Enchirito is a beloved Taco Bell creation that combines the best of two worlds: the hearty filling of a burrito and the saucy, cheesy topping of an enchilada. This homemade version features soft flour tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and diced onions, all rolled up and topped with zesty red enchilada sauce and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting, crave-worthy dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to devour.
Ingredients (Makes 6–8 Enchiritos):
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb 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 Assembly:
- 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
- 10–12 small flour tortillas (fajita size)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce (La Victoria or similar)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoned Beef
- In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef with flour, chili powder, salt, minced onion, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the spices are evenly distributed.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the seasoned beef and ½ cup water.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon until fully browned and smooth in texture. Set aside.
2. Warm the Beans and Tortillas
- Microwave the refried beans for 2–3 minutes, or until hot and spreadable.
- Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1 minute to soften.
3. Assemble the Enchiritos
- Lay a tortilla flat and spread about 3 tablespoons of refried beans down the center.
- Add 3 tablespoons of seasoned beef on top of the beans.
- Sprinkle with a teaspoon or two of diced onion.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and place seam-side down in a microwave-safe casserole dish or baking dish.
4. Top with Sauce and Cheese
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of red enchilada sauce over each rolled tortilla.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Heat and Serve
- Microwave the dish for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
- Garnish with sour cream, green onions, or sliced black olives if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- Add spice: Mix in jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Use plant-based ground meat or just beans and cheese.
- Double the sauce: If you love it extra saucy, heat up more enchilada sauce on the side for drizzling.
- Freeze for later: Assemble and freeze before baking for a quick weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Enchirito:
- Classic Taco Bell flavor at home
- Easy to customize and scale for a crowd
- Comforting, cheesy, and satisfying
- Great for meal prep or freezer meals
- A nostalgic favorite brought back to life
Would you like a homemade enchilada sauce recipe to go with it or a side dish pairing like Mexican rice or fiesta corn salad?