Name: Smothered Burrito
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs (680g) cooked protein (shredded chicken, beef, turkey, or beans); 2 cups cooked Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice; 1 can (15 oz) refried beans or black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup (100g) shredded Mexican cheese blend; ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 4 large flour tortillas (12-inch); 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 (480ml) chicken or vegetable broth; 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 2 cups (200g) shredded Mexican cheese blend; ½ cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese; ¼ cup green onions, sliced; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Sour cream for serving; Diced avocado or guacamole for serving

Smothered burrito topped with savory sauce and garnished with fresh ingredients

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The moment you introduce a Smothered Burrito to your table, an orchestra of flavors emerges, ready to serenade your senses. Picture this: a generous flour tortilla enfolding a warm, savory blend of tender protein, fluffy rice, and creamy refried beans, all harmonizing beautifully. With every bite, the rich aroma of spices envelops you, shifting you to a sun-kissed fiesta where the air vibrates with laughter and joy. The burrito, now smothered in a decadent, zesty sauce and a sprinkle of melty cheese, becomes not just a meal but a celebration of taste and texture.

As you cut into the burrito, its soft exterior gives way to a treasure trove of deliciousness. You encounter the creamy cheese, the gentle crunch of fresh cilantro, and a kiss of tang from the sour cream. Each mouthful is a delightful contrast: the warmth from the added broth, the slight spice from chili powder, and the peppery touch of green onions dancing on your palate. This is comfort food at its finest—filling, satisfying, and impossibly moreish, captivating even the most discerning of eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Smothered Burrito

The beauty of the Smothered Burrito lies not just in its irresistible taste but in its versatility. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a lively get-together, or even as a meal prep staple, it accommodates various occasions effortlessly. The flavors meld effortlessly, making every round of leftovers taste just as delightful as the first. This dish stands out because of its customizable nature—swap out proteins, experiment with toppings, and tailor the flavors to suit your family’s preferences.

Imagine serving this delightful creation during a casual movie night or as the centerpiece for Taco Tuesday. Each portion offers a warm embrace, a cozy hug of comfort that satisfies cravings and sparks joy. With every delectable bite, you’ll understand why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotations.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the heavenly realm of Smothered Burritos, gather your essential tools.

Large skillet: This is your primary cooking vessel. It distributes heat evenly, ensuring every component of your burrito reaches that perfect level of doneness.
Mixing bowls: Use these for combining your delicious fillings and sauces. They help maintain order and keep your prep tidy.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters in cooking, and these tools ensure you don’t overdo the spices or liquids.
Spatula: A reliable spatula aids in flipping and mixing without tearing the tortillas, allowing for a seamless assembly.

Practical Preparation Tips:

Prepare your ingredients beforehand—cook your protein, rice, and have your beans ready to streamline the assembly process.
Don’t rush! Enjoy the preparation phase; it’s where the magic begins, and the aromas start creating a delightful atmosphere.

Ingredients for Smothered Burrito

1.5 lbs (680g) cooked protein: Options include shredded chicken, beef, turkey, or beans for a vegetarian twist.
2 cups cooked Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice: This forms the vibrant base that pairs beautifully with the burrito fillings.
1 can (15 oz) refried beans or black beans, drained and rinsed: Creamy and rich, they add a wonderful texture.
1 cup (100g) shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts like a dream and adds that delicious cheesy goodness.
½ cup sour cream: Provides a cool, creamy finish that perfectly balances the spices.
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Brightens the dish and adds a burst of fresh flavor.
4 large flour tortillas (burrito size, 12-inch): The vessel for your delectable fillings.
3 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing your ingredients to perfection.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon dried oregano, pinch of salt: These spices will create the layers of flavor in your sauce.
2 cups (480ml) chicken or vegetable broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Rich and robust, it thickens your smothering sauce beautifully.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: A hint of tanginess that elevates the entire dish.
2 cups (200g) shredded Mexican cheese blend and ½ cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese: For that gooey, cheesy layer on top.
¼ quarter cup green onions, sliced and ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: A sprinkle of freshness that ties everything together.
Sour cream for serving and diced avocado or guacamole: These garnishes elevate the dish, adding an extra layer of tastiness.

How to Make Smothered Burrito

Preparation:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked protein and sauté for a few minutes until warmed through.
Stir in the cooked rice and beans, mixing them well with the protein. Cook for about 5 minutes until everything is heated thoroughly. Season with salt and a touch of ground cumin for added depth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add in the broth while continuing to whisk. Combine until smooth.
Pour the tomato paste and apple cider vinegar into the mixture, whisking until well blended. Transfer this sauce into the pan with the protein and rice mixture. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Assembly:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Warm the flour tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Place a generous scoop of the filling in the center of each tortilla.
Roll them tightly, tucking in the sides, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the burritos. Sprinkle generously with the shredded Mexican cheese blend and cheddar.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and let the cheese bubble and brown slightly for another 10 minutes until golden and enticing.

Serving:
Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve each Smothered Burrito with a dollop of sour cream and slices of avocado or guacamole on the side for that extra creamy goodness.

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-ahead tips: Prepare the filling and sauce a day in advance. Store in the fridge and simply assemble before baking on the day you intend to serve.
Cooking alternatives: Want a crispy burrito? Try air frying each assembled burrito for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for a crunchy outer layer.
Customization ideas: Swap in your favorite vegetables, use different cheeses, or even replace the flour tortillas with corn for a gluten-free option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling the tortillas: This leads to bursting burritos. Keep it generous but manageable; you can always save extra filling for another meal.
Skipping the simmer time: This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t rush; let your sauce develop its rich, complex taste.
Not warming the tortillas: Cold tortillas can tear easily. A brief warm-up makes them pliable and easy to roll.

What to Serve With Smothered Burrito

Spanish corn salad: Its freshness cuts through the richness of the burrito.
Mexican street corn (elote): The creamy, spicy corn complements the meal perfectly.
Chips and salsa: A crunchy appetizer to get the meal started on a bright note.
Simple guacamole: Adds a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the spicy burrito.
Cilantro lime slaw: Its zesty crunch provides a refreshing contrast to the warm burrito.
Black bean soup: This smoky soup elevates the meal with its depth of flavor.
Spanish rice: Even more of that delicious rice on the side is never a bad idea.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Smothered Burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for quick warming, or place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered in foil to maintain moisture.

Estimated Nutrition Information

Approximately:

Calories: 650 per burrito (varies by protein and toppings).
Note: Values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use black beans or grilled vegetables for a delectable vegetarian option.

2. What proteins can I use?
Shredded chicken, beef, ground turkey, or even a medley of grilled vegetables work brilliantly.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the filling and sauce in advance, store them in the fridge, and assemble and bake when ready to serve.

4. What cheese works best?
A blend of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar yields a wonderfully gooey texture, but feel free to experiment with what you love.

5. How can I spice this up?
Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling or sriracha in the sauce for an extra kick!

As you savor your Smothered Burrito, take a moment to relish the flavors, textures, and emotions tied to each bite. Gather your loved ones, share hearty laughter, and create memories while indulging in this sumptuous dish. The Smothered Burrito invites you to celebrate every delicious moment, making every meal feel like a special occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, embrace the art of cooking, and let the enchanting aromas of this dish flow through your home. Your taste buds deserve the joy of this culinary masterpiece!

Hi, I’m Clara!

I'm a food lover and a firm believer that anyone can learn to cook with a little curiosity and courage. My story with food didn’t begin in a tiny apartment with a two-burner stove and a stack of cookbooks from the local library. I was broke and desperate to make something anything that felt like home.

About Me