Moist Burritos

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Moist Burritos are the perfect answer when you’re craving something cozy, filling, and incredibly delicious. This recipe combines tender, well-seasoned ground beef (or shredded chicken), creamy sour cream, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Baked in a savory sauce, each bite is juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making these for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or meal prep for the week, these burritos are easy to assemble and incredibly satisfying.

This dish takes comfort food to the next level with its saucy, baked finish, making it a go-to recipe when you want something quick, simple, and unforgettable. Plus, the customizable filling options mean you can tweak it to suit any taste.

Why This Recipe Works

  1. Moisture-Retaining Ingredients: The addition of sour cream and refried beans (optional) keeps the filling moist, even after baking. Combined with the sauce and cheese, these ingredients make each bite soft and flavorful.
  2. Savory Seasoning: The use of taco seasoning gives the burritos a familiar, delicious flavor profile. You can easily adjust the spices if you prefer a hotter or milder taste.
  3. Baked to Perfection: Baking the burritos in enchilada sauce not only keeps them juicy but also allows the cheese topping to melt and become bubbly and golden, giving it an irresistible texture.
  4. Flexible Protein Options: While ground beef is a classic choice, this recipe is just as delicious with shredded chicken or even ground turkey, making it adaptable based on preference or dietary needs.

What You’ll Need For This Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken: This serves as the main protein, providing a hearty filling. Ground beef adds richness, while shredded chicken offers a leaner option.
  • 1 small onion, diced: Adds depth to the flavor of the meat mixture.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the savory taste and aroma of the dish.
  • 1 packet taco seasoning: Adds a balanced blend of spices for a well-rounded flavor.
  • 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce, divided: Half goes in the filling, and the other half is used to cover the burritos before baking, keeping them saucy.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream: The creamy consistency keeps the filling from becoming dry, adding richness to the dish.
  • 1/2 cup refried beans (optional): This adds extra moisture and a creamy texture; use it for a heartier burrito.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack): Cheese melts into the filling and tops the burritos, adding a comforting gooeyness.
  • 4-6 large flour tortillas: Soft tortillas hold the filling together, becoming even more tender after baking.
  • 1/2 cup salsa or diced tomatoes: Offers a fresh and tangy topping option.
  • Additional cheese for topping: For that final gooey, cheesy layer after baking.

How To Make Moist Burritos

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the Meat
  • Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or shredded chicken, along with the diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are softened.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to allow its flavor to bloom. If needed, drain any excess fat to prevent the filling from being too greasy.
  1. Season and Add Sauce
  • Stir in the taco seasoning along with 1/4 cup of the enchilada sauce and 1/4 cup of water. This step allows the seasoning to fully coat the meat, adding a consistent flavor throughout.
  • Simmer for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat to let it cool while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
  1. Prepare the Filling
  • In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with the refried beans (if using). This mixture will make the burritos incredibly moist. Spread a small amount of this creamy blend onto each tortilla before adding the meat.
  • Add a portion of the meat mixture to each tortilla and top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese. This layering ensures that every bite will be cheesy and flavorful.
  1. Roll and Place in Baking Dish
  • Roll each tortilla tightly to keep the filling intact and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. This arrangement keeps the burritos in place while they bake, and the seam-side down method prevents them from unraveling.
  • Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the burritos, ensuring they’re fully covered. Sprinkle additional cheese on top for that golden, bubbly finish.
  1. Bake
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil to keep in moisture. Bake for 20 minutes.
  • After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt and turn slightly golden.
  1. Serve
  • Serve the burritos warm. Top with fresh salsa, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of guacamole to add freshness and contrast. Enjoy the burritos while the cheese is melty and the sauce is warm.

Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and diced onions bring out the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic works, but fresh will elevate the taste.
  2. Customize the Protein: If you prefer a leaner option, try ground turkey. Vegetarian burritos work well with seasoned black beans or a mix of beans and vegetables.
  3. Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for a block of cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent smooth melting.
  4. Add a Little Spice: If you enjoy spicier burritos, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
  5. Control the Sauce: If you prefer less sauce, reduce the amount poured over the burritos before baking. For a saucier finish, double the enchilada sauce.

How to Serve

Serve these burritos warm right from the oven. They make a complete meal on their own but pair wonderfully with a few simple side dishes:

  • Mexican Rice: Adds a filling grain option, balancing the flavors of the burritos.
  • Guacamole or Sliced Avocado: Adds creaminess and freshness.
  • Side Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the burritos.
  • Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Adds a crunchy texture to the meal.

Serving Suggestions

  • For a Family Meal: Serve burritos straight from the baking dish with toppings like guacamole, salsa, diced tomatoes, and sour cream. Let each family member customize their burrito.
  • For a Casual Gathering: Serve the burritos in halves or thirds for an easy-to-eat finger food option. Set up a topping station with fresh herbs, hot sauce, and shredded lettuce.

Storage and Reheating

  1. To Refrigerate: Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  2. To Freeze: Place individual burritos in plastic wrap, then in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  3. To Reheat: For refrigerated burritos, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Frozen burritos can be reheated in the oven for 30-35 minutes or microwaved in 1-minute intervals until warm.

Total Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

These Moist Burritos are an easy yet flavorful recipe, perfect for anyone who loves saucy, cheesy, and satisfying Mexican-inspired dishes. Make this recipe once, and it will become a regular in your meal rotation! Enjoy every juicy, savory bite.

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