Are you craving that restaurant-style burrito experience but don't want the hassle of ordering takeout? Then you're in the right place! This easy wet burrito sauce recipe will transform your homemade burritos from good to absolutely incredible. Forget bland, dry fillings – we're talking a flavor explosion in every single bite with a sauce so good, you'll want to drink it straight from the pan (don't worry, we won't judge!). This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love. It’s a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water - slurry)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a delicious base for your sauce.
-
Combine ingredients: Add the undrained diced tomatoes, Rotel, chicken broth, ketchup, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the saucepan. Season generously with salt and pepper.
-
Simmer and thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
-
Thicken the sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. This prevents a watery sauce and gives your burritos that perfect "wet" texture.
-
Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more chili powder for extra heat, or a touch of sugar to balance the acidity. This is where your personal touch comes in!
Tips for Burrito Sauce Success:
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch on the weekend and store it in the refrigerator for quick weeknight meals.
- Use different chilies: For a milder sauce, omit the cayenne pepper or use a milder chili powder. For extra heat, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans to the sauce while it simmers.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Burrito Sauce: Simply omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead.
- Spicy Burrito Sauce: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
This easy wet burrito sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to any quick dinner ideas you might have. It's a simple yet delicious way to elevate your homemade burritos to a whole new level. Enjoy!