Create Your Own Smothered Burrito: A Delicious Recipe Guide

Imagine a flour tortilla packed to the brim with your favorite protein, Spanish rice, refried beans, and a symphony of Mexican flavors, all smothered in a rich, velvety sauce and baked to cheesy perfection. That, my friends, is the essence of the mighty Smothered Burrito. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, blending the heartiness of a burrito with the indulgence of a smothered enchilada. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or seeking to impress with a showstopping dish, the Smothered Burrito is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Perfect Smothered Burrito

At the heart of the Smothered Burrito are the carefully selected fillings that create a flavor-packed experience. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to craft this Mexican delight:

Burrito Filling

• 1½ lbs (680 g) cooked protein (ground beef, shredded chicken, carnitas, etc.)
• 2 cups cooked Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice
• 1 can (15 oz) refried beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded Mexican cheese blend
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size, 12-inch)

Smothering Sauce

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Toppings

• 2 cups (200 g) shredded Mexican cheese blend
• ½ cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream for serving
• Diced avocado or guacamole

Bringing the Smothered Burrito to Life

Now that we have all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of assembling and baking the perfect Smothered Burrito:

Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will ensure your Smothered Burritos bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Make the Smothering Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant. Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the tomato paste and apple cider vinegar, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Prepare the Fillings

While the sauce is simmering, make sure your cooked protein, rice, and beans are heated through and ready to go. Having all the fillings at the right temperature will make the assembly process much easier.

Assemble the Burritos

Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface and place about ½ cup of rice down the center, leaving space at the edges. Top the rice with about ⅓ cup of your chosen protein, ¼ cup of beans, a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a pinch of cilantro. Avoid overfilling the tortilla, as this can lead to messy spills during rolling. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly from bottom to top. Place the burrito seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and fillings.

Smother and Bake

Once all the burritos are assembled, pour the warm smothering sauce evenly over the top, ensuring each burrito is completely covered. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend and cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the sauce is simmering around the edges.

Garnish and Serve

Allow the Smothered Burritos to rest for 5 minutes, then top them with the sliced green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve with additional sour cream and diced avocado or guacamole on the side for the ultimate Mexican feast.

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FAQ About Smothered Burritos

How can I make a vegetarian version of a Smothered Burrito?

To create a delicious vegetarian Smothered Burrito, start by choosing protein-rich ingredients like black beans, pinto beans, or lentils as the main filling. Add a variety of veggies such as sautéed bell peppers, onions, corn, and zucchini for added flavor and texture. For the rice component, cilantro lime rice or Spanish rice works well. When making the smothering sauce, consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and for the cheese, opt for a plant-based alternative if desired. Top with fresh avocado, diced tomatoes, and green onions for a fresh finish.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Smothered Burritos?

One common mistake is overfilling the burrito, which can lead to spills during rolling. Stick to a manageable amount of filling—about ½ to ¾ cup. Another mistake is not heating the tortillas before assembly, which can make them brittle and likely to tear. Additionally, neglecting to let the smothering sauce cool slightly before pouring it over the burritos can lead to soggy tortillas. Finally, avoid skipping the step of covering the burritos while baking, as this helps to steam them, ensuring a warm, tender result.

How can I customize the spice level of my Smothered Burrito?

To adjust the spice level of your Smothered Burrito, you can modify the ingredients in both the filling and the smothering sauce. For a milder option, use mild salsa or omit spicy peppers. If you prefer more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. For the smothering sauce, you can incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky heat or increase the amount of cayenne pepper. Always taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.

What sides pair well with Smothered Burritos for a complete meal?

To create a well-rounded meal with your Smothered Burritos, consider serving sides that complement the flavors of the dish. Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice is a popular choice, as is a fresh salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, corn, and avocado. You can also serve black beans or refried beans on the side. For an added crunch, tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole make great accompaniments. Don’t forget about traditional sides like corn on the cob or grilled vegetables to enhance the overall dining experience.

Indulge in the Cheesy, Saucy Perfection of Smothered Burritos

Elevating the humble burrito to new heights, the Smothered Burrito is a true Mexican culinary delight. With its irresistible combination of flavorful fillings, velvety smothering sauce, and melty cheese topping, this dish is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. Whether you’re hosting a Tex-Mex-inspired gathering or simply craving a comforting, family-friendly meal, the Smothered Burrito is a surefire winner. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the cheesy, saucy perfection of this Mexican masterpiece.

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

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