Description
Smothered Cheesy Beef Burritos are a comforting and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is cooked with onions, garlic, and taco seasoning, then combined with creamy refried beans for added texture. Wrapped in large flour tortillas, smothered with a rich and flavorful beef-based sauce, topped with melted cheese, and baked to bubbly perfection, these burritos are sure to satisfy your cravings. Served with fresh garnishes like cilantro, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and onions, plus sour cream or guacamole for an extra creamy touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (or 2 tbsp) taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup refried beans (optional for texture and creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Smother Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
Burritos and Garnishes
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Shredded lettuce for serving
- Diced tomatoes and onions for serving
- Sour cream or guacamole for serving
Instructions
- Make the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned, about 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in taco seasoning and water, then simmer until the mixture thickens slightly. Incorporate refried beans if using and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set the filling aside.
- Prepare the Smother Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until it turns golden, indicating the roux is ready. Gradually pour in beef broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Assemble the Burritos: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out the large flour tortillas on a flat surface. Spoon the beef filling into the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling. Roll each tortilla tightly, tucking in the ends to secure the burrito. Place the burritos seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the smother sauce evenly over the top of the burritos and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top has melted and turned golden brown. For an extra toasty finish, broil the burritos for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the burritos from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve warm with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and a side of sour cream or guacamole for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- For a creamier filling, don’t skip the refried beans—they add great texture and richness.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative to beef.
- Use a Mexican cheese blend or mix cheddar with Monterey Jack for the best melting results.
- To make the dish spicier, add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the filling or sauce.
- Leftover burritos can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
