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Grandma’s Legendary Enchirito Recipe

4.8 from 104 reviews

Grandma’s Legendary Enchirito is a comforting, flavorful baked Mexican-inspired dish featuring seasoned ground beef and refried beans wrapped in warm flour tortillas, topped with enchilada sauce, cheese, and onions. Perfect for a family meal that will have everyone licking their plates clean.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Filling

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20 recommended for best flavor)
  • 1 can (16 oz) refried beans (Rosarita traditional preferred)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade mix)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onions

Assembly and Topping

  • 6 medium flour tortillas (warmed to prevent cracking)
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (divided)
  • 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (mild or hot, as preferred)

To Serve

  • 1/3 cup sour cream (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Filling: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon for crumbly texture. Drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor. Stir in taco seasoning, allowing spices to bloom for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the entire can of refried beans and mix thoroughly into a thick, cohesive paste, adding a splash of water or broth if too dry. Remove from heat and let the filling rest for 5 minutes to enhance flavors.
  2. Assemble the Enchiritos: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm the flour tortillas by microwaving for 15 seconds or heating in a dry skillet to prevent cracking when rolling. Place about 1/3 cup of the beef and bean filling along the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle approximately 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese over the filling to help seal the roll. Roll the tortilla tightly, tucking in the ends, and place seam-side down in a 9×13 baking dish arranged in two rows of three.
  3. Bake and Serve: Evenly pour the red enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiritos, allowing some to drip down the sides. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese and chopped onions on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Let the enchiritos rest for 5 minutes after baking to help them set. Serve with a generous dollop of sour cream on each portion and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.

Notes

  • Warming tortillas before rolling is crucial to prevent cracking.
  • If the filling is too dry, add a splash of water or broth to achieve a thick, spreadable consistency.
  • Adjust the heat level by choosing mild or hot enchilada sauce based on preference.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated wrapped in foil at 350°F until warmed through.
  • For a lower-fat version, use leaner ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.

Keywords: enchirito, beef enchilada, Mexican casserole, baked enchiladas, ground beef recipe, refried beans, taco seasoning, comfort food