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A comforting Mexican-inspired feast awaits with these hearty beef and bean burritos, smothered in a rich, aromatic red chile sauce. This homestyle recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.
The first time I made these at home, the aroma of toasting spices and simmering sauce filled the kitchen with the most incredible scent. Now it's become our favorite way to elevate simple burritos.
Essential Ingredients
- Ground beef: Choose 80/20 for the best flavor and moisture.
- Flour tortillas: Large, fresh ones that stay pliable.
- Red chile powder: New Mexico chile powder gives the most authentic flavor.
- Fresh garlic: Essential for building the sauce's foundation.
- Refried beans: Homemade or high-quality canned both work well.
- Cheese: Freshly grated melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
Creating Your Burrito Feast
- Step 1:
- Start by warming your tortillas - they'll be more pliable.
- Step 2:
- Toast your spices until fragrant to unlock their flavors.
- Step 3:
- Brown the beef in batches for better caramelization.
- Step 4:
- Drain excess fat but leave a little for flavor.
- Step 5:
- Heat refried beans for easier spreading.
- Step 6:
- Layer ingredients off-center for better rolling.
- Step 7:
- Tuck sides in firmly before rolling.
- Step 8:
- Place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Step 9:
- Make sure sauce is hot when pouring over burritos.
- Step 10:
- Cover edges of tortillas completely with sauce.
- Step 11:
- Add cheese gradually for even melting.
- Step 12:
- Watch for bubbling edges to know they're done.
- Step 13:
- Let rest briefly before serving.
My family tradition is to gather around while assembling these burritos, each person customizing their own with favorite fillings.
Perfect Accompaniments
- Mexican rice with lime and cilantro
- Fresh pico de gallo
- Creamy guacamole
- Mexican crema for drizzling
This dish reminds me of the family-run Mexican restaurants where each sauce is made from cherished recipes passed down through generations.
These smothered burritos prove that with the right sauce and technique, home-cooked Mexican food can rival any restaurant version. Each time I make them, the combination of spices and textures creates something truly special.