Loaded Smothered Beef Burritos Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed meal that satisfies both comfort and indulgence, these Loaded Smothered Beef Burritos are exactly what you need. Packed with seasoned ground beef, beans, rice, and melty cheese, then smothered in enchilada sauce and even more cheese, they offer an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Breakdown

To create these loaded burritos, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that pack a punch. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided): You’ll need some for cooking the beef and some to prepare the skillet.
• 1 lb ground beef: I recommend using 90% lean for the best balance between flavor and lower fat content.
• 1 small sweet Vidalia or white onion, diced small: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz, medium heat, reduced sodium): This packs the beef with classic Mexican flavors.
• 7 large flour tortillas (10-inch, burrito size): These will wrap all the delicious fillings.
• 16 oz can refried beans: Helps bind the filling and adds richness.
• 8.5 oz package pre-cooked Spanish rice: Convenient and perfectly seasoned rice for extra flavor.
• 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided): Melts beautifully inside the burritos and smothered on top.
• 15 oz can red enchilada sauce (medium heat): Adds that smothered, saucy element that takes these burritos to the next level.
• Cilantro (optional for garnishing): Fresh, herby garnish that pairs well with the rich burritos.

this RECIPE

The Perfect Ground Beef Filling

To start, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, and cook for about 7 minutes until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn soft and translucent. Make sure to stir and crumble the beef as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once the beef is done, stir in the taco seasoning for a punch of flavor and set the skillet aside.

Layering the Burrito for Maximum Flavor

Now that the beef mixture is ready, it’s time to layer your burritos. Lay out each tortilla on the countertop and spread about 2 tablespoons of refried beans down the center of each one. Next, spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of Spanish rice over the beans, followed by a generous portion of the seasoned beef mixture. Top each burrito with 1 ½ cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend, ensuring an even distribution across all the tortillas.

How to Roll Burritos Like a Pro

Rolling a burrito can seem tricky, but it’s easier than it looks! First, fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling. Then, starting at the bottom, roll the tortilla tightly upwards, making sure the seam is on the bottom to keep it secure. This prevents the burrito from unrolling while baking and helps to keep all the delicious fillings tucked inside.

Smothering with Enchilada Sauce and Cheese

Once your burritos are neatly rolled, place them seam-side down in a large oven-proof skillet or baking dish. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the skillet to prevent sticking. Bake the burritos in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes to get them warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

After 25 minutes, remove the skillet from the oven and evenly drizzle the enchilada sauce over the top of the burritos. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the sauce. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is bubbly.

Baking to Perfection

Timing is key when baking these burritos. You want the outer tortillas to be crispy, but not overly hard, and the cheese on top to be perfectly melted. Be sure to check the burritos at the 25-minute mark and avoid overcooking during the final stage, as the burritos should stay soft and moist under the enchilada sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the burritos: It’s tempting to add extra fillings, but this can make the burritos hard to roll and cause them to burst during baking.
• Skipping the taco seasoning: The seasoning really brings out the flavors in the beef; don’t skip this step!
• Improper rolling: Make sure your burritos are rolled tightly and placed seam-side down to prevent them from falling apart.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Burritos

If you end up with extra burritos (which isn’t likely!), they store wonderfully. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a couple of minutes, or reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through.

You can also freeze these burritos! Wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 4 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and bake at 350°F until fully heated through.

Variations: Make It Your Own

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, and there are countless ways to switch it up:

• Switch the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.
• Spice it up: Add sliced jalapeños, or use a spicier enchilada sauce for extra heat.
• Add veggies: Incorporate sautéed peppers, corn, or even diced tomatoes for added texture and nutrition.

Presentation Tips for Smothered Beef Burritos

Presentation can make these burritos even more appetizing. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and brightness. Serve the burritos with sides like guacamole, salsa, or a fresh garden salad to round out the meal. You can even add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle of hot sauce on top for extra flavor!

FAQs About Loaded Smothered Beef Burritos

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Corn tortillas can be used, but keep in mind they are smaller and less flexible, making it harder to roll. Also, they can crack more easily during baking.

What other cheese can I use?
If you don’t have a Mexican cheese blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack will work perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the burritos and store them in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed and smother with sauce and cheese.

Conclusion

These Loaded Smothered Beef Burritos are a surefire hit for any dinner table! Try this recipe for your next family meal or gathering, and don’t forget to share your experience. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to subscribe for more mouthwatering recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

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