Taco Bell Enchirito

The Taco Bell Enchirito was a popular menu item that combined a burrito and enchilada for a unique and flavorful dish. While Taco Bell no longer serves it, you can recreate this delicious meal at home with a few simple ingredients. Here’s a recipe to make your own version of the Enchirito:

Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken or turkey, if preferred)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green, depending on your preference)
• 1/2 cup refried beans (optional, but adds to the classic texture)
• 8 small flour tortillas (softened slightly, if necessary)

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the Onion and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the taco seasoning packet and water, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is well-seasoned and slightly thickened.
3. Add Green Chilies (Optional): If you like a bit of extra flavor, add the diced green chilies to the filling. Stir to combine.

2. Assemble the Enchiritos:

1. Warm the Tortillas: Slightly warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to make them more pliable.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Lay each tortilla flat and spread a thin layer of refried beans (optional) in the center. Add about 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture on top of the beans.
3. Roll the Burrito: Roll up the tortilla tightly, folding in the edges as you go to form a neat burrito. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

3. Prepare the Enchilada Sauce:

• Pour a little of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) to prevent sticking.

4. Bake the Enchiritos:

1. Place the Enchiritos in the Dish: Arrange the rolled-up burritos seam-side down in the baking dish.
2. Top with Sauce: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the burritos, covering them completely.
3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce, covering the entire dish.

5. Bake and Serve:

1. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is slightly thickened.
2. Top and Garnish: After removing from the oven, garnish the Enchiritos with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, black olives, and chopped green onions, if desired.

6. Serve:

• Serve the Homemade Enchiritos warm, and enjoy a Taco Bell classic made right at home!

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Optional Add-ins and Variations:

• Meat Alternatives: You can substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even beans for a vegetarian version.
• Extra Cheese: Add a layer of Monterey Jack cheese along with the cheddar for a creamier texture.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeño slices or hot sauce for extra heat.

This homemade Enchirito is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings back the Taco Bell classic in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy!