Loaded Smothered Beef Burritos

Loaded Smothered Beef Burritos are a hearty, comforting meal packed with seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, cheese, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Baked to perfection and smothered in red enchilada sauce and melted cheese, these burritos are the ultimate weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These burritos are the perfect fusion of comfort food and Tex-Mex flavors. They’re easy to assemble, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, smothered burritos bring restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Taco seasoning
• Refried beans or whole black beans
• Cooked rice
• Flour tortillas
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Red enchilada sauce
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Green onions or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Sauté until softened.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer until well combined.
5. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them easier to roll.
6. Spread a layer of beans down the center of each tortilla, followed by rice, seasoned beef, and a sprinkle of cheese.
7. Roll each tortilla into a burrito and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
8. Pour enchilada sauce generously over the top of the burritos.
9. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
10. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish with sour cream, green onions, or cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 burritos.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Vegetarian: Substitute beef with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and extra beans.
• Low-carb: Use low-carb tortillas or serve the filling over a bed of lettuce.
• Chicken: Replace ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Green sauce: Use green enchilada sauce instead of red for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
For oven reheating, cover with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes.
These burritos also freeze well. Wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of beef is best for burritos?

Ground beef is commonly used for ease, but you can also use shredded beef for a more traditional texture.

Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the burritos ahead of time and store them covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

Do I have to use enchilada sauce?

No, you can substitute with salsa, queso, or a homemade chili gravy for different flavors.

Can I freeze smothered burritos?

Absolutely. Wrap them in foil before adding sauce and cheese, then freeze. Add sauce and cheese when ready to bake.

What toppings go well with these burritos?

Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, green onions, chopped cilantro, or jalapeños.

Are these burritos spicy?

They’re mildly spiced, but you can increase the heat by adding hot sauce or extra chili powder.

Can I use corn tortillas instead?

Flour tortillas work best for burritos due to their flexibility and size, but large corn tortillas can be used if preferred.

How do I keep burritos from getting soggy?

Bake them uncovered and avoid overloading with sauce before serving. Add extra sauce just before eating.

What side dishes go with smothered burritos?

Great sides include Mexican rice, chips and salsa, refried beans, or a fresh green salad.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use lean ground beef or turkey, low-fat cheese, and whole-wheat tortillas. You can also skip the cheese topping if desired.

Conclusion

Loaded Smothered Beef Burritos are a flavorful, filling dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. With easy prep, customizable fillings, and rich, melty toppings, this recipe delivers maximum comfort and taste with minimal fuss. Whether you’re making them ahead or enjoying fresh out of the oven, these burritos are sure to be a hit.

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