Smothered Ground Beef Burritos

Smothered Ground Beef Burritos are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings. These burritos are generously filled with savory ground beef and enveloped in a rich red enchilada sauce, topped with melted cheese that stretches with every bite. With their hearty flavors and satisfying textures, these burritos promise to be a hit at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of taco seasoning and enchilada sauce ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These burritos freeze well, making them an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them! The gooey cheese and flavorful filling make these burritos a sure winner for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Smothered Ground Beef Burritos, having the right tools will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Oven-safe plate

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning ground beef evenly, ensuring it cooks thoroughly.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for making the sauce while keeping it separate from the main cooking process.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing flour into the sauce.
• Oven-safe plate: Ensures safe transfer of your assembled burritos into the oven for baking.

Ingredients

This enchilada style ground beef burrito recipe is indulgently stuffed with flavorful ground beef and topped with red enchilada sauce and loads of gooey melted cheese!

For the Filling

• 2.5 Pounds Ground Beef
• 2 Packets Taco Seasoning
• 1 ½ teaspoons Better than Beef Bouillon
• 1 Bottle Dr Pepper (12 oz)
• 1 Cup Water

For the Sauce

• 3 Tablespoons Butter
• 2 Tablespoons Flour
• 1 ½ Cups Beef Stock
• 1 Can Red Enchilada Sauce (19 oz)
• 1 teaspoon Chili Powder

For Assembling

• 4 Tortillas (large burrito size)
• 4 Cups Mexican Cheese Blend

How to Make Smothered Ground Beef Burritos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your burritos bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat for a leaner filling.

Step 3: Season the Meat

Stir in the taco seasoning and Better than Bouillon into the cooked meat. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Create the Flavorful Liquid

Pour in the Dr Pepper and water, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a simmer and cook until most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Slowly whisk in flour until combined. Gradually add beef stock, then incorporate red enchilada sauce and chili powder. Simmer until thickened.

Step 6: Assemble the Burritos

Spoon approximately ¼ of the seasoned ground beef into each tortilla’s center. Add a small sprinkle of Mexican cheese blend on top of the beef before folding up each burrito tightly.

Step 7: Bake Your Burritos

Place wrapped burritos on an oven-safe plate. Pour sauce over each burrito, then top generously with shredded Mexican cheese blend.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly. Top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream or fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor!

How to Serve Smothered Ground Beef Burritos

Smothered Ground Beef Burritos are a delightful meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual night in, these burritos can be customized to suit any occasion.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spice.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chop some cilantro for a burst of freshness that complements the beef flavor.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, sliced jalapeños provide an extra kick.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the overall taste and adds healthy fats.

Sides

• Spanish Rice: Fluffy Spanish rice is a classic pairing that complements the flavors of the burrito.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your plate.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, balancing the savory burrito.
• Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa are perfect for snacking alongside your meal.

How to Perfect Smothered Ground Beef Burritos

To make sure your Smothered Ground Beef Burritos turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold seasoning: Use the right amount of taco seasoning for robust flavor. Adjust according to your taste preference.
• Proper browning: Ensure the ground beef is well-browned for depth of flavor. Don’t hurry this step!
• Tortilla choice: Opt for large burrito-sized tortillas to hold all the delicious fillings without tearing.
• Even filling distribution: Spoon the filling evenly into each tortilla to ensure consistent flavors in every bite.
• Generous cheese topping: Don’t skimp on cheese; it creates a gooey, melty topping that everyone loves.
• Bake until golden: Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown for an appealing finish.

Best Side Dishes for Smothered Ground Beef Burritos

Pairing side dishes with your Smothered Ground Beef Burritos can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, and chili powder for a flavorful treat.
2. Chili Lime Quinoa Salad: A zesty quinoa salad with lime dressing adds freshness and nutrition to your plate.
3. Black Bean Salad: A simple black bean salad with tomatoes, onions, and lime juice provides protein and color.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and spices make for a colorful and nutritious side dish.
5. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy zucchini fritters are a great way to sneak in veggies while keeping it tasty.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime is perfect for brightening up any dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Smothered Ground Beef Burritos, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes that can affect your dish:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the ground beef properly can lead to a bland flavor. Always ensure the meat is browned well for maximum taste.
• Overfilling Your Tortillas: It’s tempting to stuff them full, but overfilling can cause spills and make wrapping difficult. Stick to a quarter of the filling for easy wrapping.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect cooking time and texture. Make sure your beef and cheese are at room temperature before starting.
• Ignoring Sauces: Not including enough sauce can lead to dry burritos. Pour sauce generously over the top before baking for extra moisture and flavor.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Smothered Ground Beef Burritos in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Smothered Ground Beef Burritos

• Wrap individual burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Smothered Ground Beef Burritos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place burritos on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a burrito on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Smothered Ground Beef Burritos special?

Smothered Ground Beef Burritos are unique because they combine flavorful seasoned beef with rich enchilada sauce and melted cheese, creating a deliciously indulgent meal.

Can I customize my Smothered Ground Beef Burritos?

Absolutely! You can add beans, rice, or veggies into the filling or choose different cheeses based on your preference.

How do I make these burritos spicier?

To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning when preparing the beef filling.

Can I make these with chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of these burritos while maintaining great flavor.

Conclusion

Smothered Ground Beef Burritos offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and toppings according to your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will love!