Craving that iconic Taco Bell smothered burrito but don't want to leave the house? This recipe delivers the same delicious, cheesy, saucy goodness, all from the comfort of your kitchen! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a fun weekend cooking project. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest with this surprisingly simple recreation of a fast-food favorite. We'll transform ordinary ingredients into a delicious dish you'll crave again and again.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or your preferred protein: chicken, turkey, or vegetarian crumbles)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (15 ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mild salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 6 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Season the Beef
Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This step builds the rich flavor profile that's so characteristic of the dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out your flour tortillas on a flat surface. Spread a layer of refried beans down the center of each tortilla. Top with a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef mixture. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: The Smothering!
Drizzle a spoonful of your mild salsa and sour cream or Mexican crema over the cheese.
Step 5: Roll and Enjoy!
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up from the bottom. You can enjoy these immediately or quickly pan-fry them for a crispier tortilla. For a pan-fried burrito, heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the burritos for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
Tips for Taco Bell Smothered Burrito Success:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Cheese please: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Fresh ingredients: Adding diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or guacamole will enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook the burritos just before serving for the best texture.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Smothered Burrito: Substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans or your favorite vegetarian crumbles.
- Chicken Smothered Burrito: Use cooked shredded chicken instead of ground beef.
- Spicy Smothered Burrito: Use a spicier salsa and add some chopped jalapeños to the filling.
Nutritional Information (per burrito, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal that's easy to customize to your preferences. It’s a great example of how easy healthy meals can be – and perfect for satisfying those cravings for a flavorful and quick dinner! Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell-inspired smothered burritos!