A Mexican Enchirito is a delicious, hearty dish that combines the flavors of an enchilada and a burrito, all in one! It typically consists of a flour tortilla filled with seasoned beef or chicken, beans, cheese, and then topped with a flavorful red enchilada sauce and melted cheese. It’s a great make-ahead meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Here’s a simple recipe to make your own Mexican Enchirito at home!
Ingredients:
For the Enchirito:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 lb ground beef (or chicken, if you prefer)
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water (for the taco seasoning)
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans (or black beans, if preferred)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (or homemade if preferred)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Enchilada Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the red enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Meat:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or chicken) over medium heat until it’s fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the chopped onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the pan. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, until thickened. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Enchirito:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Warm the flour tortillas slightly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) so they’re more pliable.
- Spread a thin layer of refried beans in the center of each tortilla.
- Add a spoonful of the seasoned meat mixture on top of the beans, then sprinkle with a little shredded cheese.
- Roll the tortillas up tightly, folding in the sides to secure the fillings.
4. Bake the Enchirito:
- Place the rolled enchiritos in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, seam side down.
- Pour the prepared enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with shredded lettuce, sour cream, or any other desired toppings like salsa, chopped onions, or jalapeños.
Tips:
- Add More Veggies: You can add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the meat mixture or the enchilada sauce.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a vegetarian protein like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or additional beans for a meatless version.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the enchiritos ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat, adding a few extra minutes if they’re cold from the fridge.
Enjoy!
These Mexican Enchiritos are a fun, delicious twist on classic Mexican dishes. The combination of seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and enchilada sauce wrapped in soft tortillas creates the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for any night of the week!