I can still hear the excited chatter around the dinner table as the aroma of Smothered Green Chili Burritos filled the room. These delightful creations are more than just a meal; they encapsulate comfort food at its finest. This recipe effortlessly combines warmth and spice, perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something hearty yet satisfying. With quick prep time and a sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance, these homemade burritos are not just easy to make, they also promise to impress family and friends alike. Ready to explore the magic of these spicy green chili burritos and elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Smothered Green Chili Burritos a Must-Try?
Irresistible warmth: Those chilly nights call for a dish that warms the soul, and this recipe delivers just that.
Flavor explosion: The zesty green chili sauce melds perfectly with the savory filling to create an unforgettable taste.
Easy prep: You don’t need to be a chef to master this burrito; simple steps will have you rolling in no time.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans, adding a personal twist! For something extra, consider pairing it with some Spicy Chipotle Ranch for another dimension of flavor.
Crowd-pleasing dish: Great for gatherings, family dinners, or just a comforting night in, these burritos are sure to impress!
Smothered Green Chili Burritos Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful dish with these easy-to-find ingredients!
For the Filling
- Olive oil – Adds richness and helps to sauté ingredients; can substitute with vegetable oil.
- Medium onion, chopped – Provides sweetness and aromatic base for the filling; yellow or white onions work well.
- Garlic, minced – Enhances flavor with its bold, aromatic profile; fresh garlic is preferred for the best taste.
- Ground beef – Main protein source, seasoned for savory depth; can substitute with shredded chicken or beans for a vegetarian version.
- Ground cumin – Adds warm, earthy flavor; replace with coriander in a pinch.
- Chili powder – Brings heat and depth; replace with taco seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- Paprika – Offers sweetness and color; smoked paprika can enhance the flavor further.
- Oregano – Adds herbaceous notes; dried basil can be used as an alternative.
- Salt and black pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to taste.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – Provides additional heat; omit for less spicy burritos.
- Diced green chilies – Contributes to the dish’s signature flavor; canned or fresh chilies are both acceptable.
For the Sauce & Topping
- Red enchilada sauce – Forms the base sauce, adding tang and moisture; homemade sauce can be used for a fresher taste.
- Sour cream – Adds creaminess to the filling; plain Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts perfectly to create a cheesy texture; substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Complements cheddar; can be swapped with other melting cheeses.
For Assembly
- Flour tortillas – Encases the filling; can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- Chopped fresh cilantro – Provides a fresh finishing touch; omit if not a cilantro fan.
Let the adventure of making smothered green chili burritos begin!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smothered Green Chili Burritos
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped medium onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic base sets the stage for your delicious smothered green chili burritos.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned with no pink remaining. As it cooks, season with 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. The beef should develop a rich color and enticing aroma.
Step 3: Mix in Green Chilies
Stir in 1 can of diced green chilies and 1 cup of red enchilada sauce into the beef mixture. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes over low heat, blending the flavors together. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens slightly and starts to bubble gently. This piquant blend will be the heart of your smothered green chili burritos.
Step 4: Incorporate Creaminess
Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in ½ cup of sour cream until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This adds a delightful richness that perfectly balances the spice of the green chiles. Set the filling aside to cool slightly while you prepare for assembly.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. This ensures your smothered green chili burritos bake evenly and don’t stick. While the oven is heating, prepare your tortillas—set them on a clean surface, ready for filling.
Step 6: Fill the Tortillas
Spoon about ¼ cup of the beef filling onto the center of each flour tortilla. Sprinkle a little shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top of the filling. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Place each burrito seam-side down into the prepared baking dish, creating a snug fit.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Pour any remaining beef mixture over the assembled burritos, followed by an additional sprinkle of shredded cheeses. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to start melting.
Step 8: Brown for Perfection
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. You’ll know it’s done when a delicious aroma wafts through your kitchen, calling everyone to the table for these irresistible smothered green chili burritos.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the burritos cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, adding a vibrant touch before serving. These smothered green chili burritos are now ready to be enjoyed with your favorite sides, making for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Smothered Green Chili Burritos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef filling up to 3 days in advance—simply follow steps 1 through 4, then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can also roll and assemble the burritos in the baking dish and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking for a fresh, fast meal. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake from chilled for an extra 15 minutes, ensuring the cheese is bubbly and delicious, and enjoy the comforting flavors that your family will love, just like homemade!
Smothered Green Chili Burritos Variations
Feel free to personalize your burrito experience and turn up the flavor in delightful ways!
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Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a hearty plant-based option that’s just as filling.
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Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra layer of heat that will have spice lovers coming back for more.
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Different cheese: Try pepper jack cheese for a bold, spicy flavor or a combination of cheeses for a richer profile.
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Gluten-Free: Swap flour tortillas with corn tortillas to accommodate gluten sensitivities while maintaining deliciousness.
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Creamy twist: Stir in a Mexican crema instead of sour cream for a silky texture that enhances the overall burrito experience.
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Flavor boost: Consider adding some fresh lime juice or cilantro to the filling for a zesty, vibrant flavor that uplifts the dish.
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Hearty addition: Toss in some cooked quinoa or brown rice for an extra boost of fiber and texture that makes these burritos even more filling.
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Sauce swap: For a different but complimentary flavor, use a Spicy Chipotle Ranch sauce instead of red enchilada sauce.
Whatever your choice, these variations can take your smothered green chili burritos on an exciting journey!
What to Serve with Smothered Green Chili Burritos
Transform your meal into a fiesta with these delightful pairings that bring out the burritos’ flavorful essence.
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Mexican Street Corn: Sweet, roasted corn slathered in creamy sauce adds a crunchy contrast to your burritos. This vibrant side will balance the spice beautifully.
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Homemade Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the green chili sauce. Its refreshing taste is a delightful contrast.
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Fresh Pico de Gallo: The bright and zesty flavors of diced tomatoes, onion, and cilantro create a vibrant topping that enhances each bite. It’s fresh, light, and makes a colorful presentation.
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Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crispy chips dipped in spicy salsa make for a fun, shareable appetizer. The texture difference is perfect before indulging in those hearty burritos.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fragrant rice cooked with cilantro and lime elevates your plate, providing a fresh burst of flavor that complements the richness of the burrito.
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Spicy Black Bean Soup: This warm, hearty soup serves as a comforting starter. The black beans add protein and depth, rounding out your meal.
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Margaritas: A classic pairing that adds a celebratory twist to your meal. The tangy citrus notes contrast beautifully with the burritos’ bold flavors.
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Churros: For dessert, these crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated treats promise a sweet conclusion to the meal, balancing the hearty flavor of the main dish.
Enjoy your delightful feast!
How to Store and Freeze Smothered Green Chili Burritos
Fridge: Keep wrapped burritos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their flavor and texture while making them easy to reheat.
Freezer: Store assembled, cooled burritos in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a zip-top bag.
Reheating: To enjoy your smothered green chili burritos, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they remain deliciously gooey.
Cooling Before Storing: Allow the burritos to cool completely before wrapping. This prevents condensation from making them soggy, preserving that perfect burrito texture.
Expert Tips for Smothered Green Chili Burritos
- No Soggy Burritos: Ensure your filling cools slightly before rolling. This prevents the tortillas from getting soggy and helps maintain their texture.
- Cheese Choice: Mix and match cheeses to customize flavor. Combining sharp cheddar with creamy Monterey Jack creates a delicious, gooey interior for your smothered green chili burritos.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the spices! Properly seasoning your ground beef ensures every bite bursts with flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
- Assembly Line: Set up an assembly line for filling and rolling burritos; this speeds up the process and makes it less messy.
- Bake Covered: Cover with foil when baking initially. This traps steam, ensuring they cook evenly and remain moist before browning the top.
- Storage Tips: If making ahead, wrap cooled burritos tightly before refrigerating or freezing to lock in freshness and flavor.
Smothered Green Chili Burritos Recipe FAQs
What type of green chilies should I use?
You can use either canned or fresh diced green chilies for your burritos. I often opt for canned ones because they’re convenient and readily available. If you’re feeling adventurous, start with fresh green chiles, roasting them for an extra smoky flavor—it’s truly delightful!
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How should I store leftover burritos?
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious smothered green chili burritos, let any leftovers cool completely before wrapping them in foil or placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for easy reheatable meals throughout the week!
Can I freeze smothered green chili burritos?
Absolutely! To freeze your burritos, let them cool entirely first. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, followed by placing them in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the bag, so you know what delights await you later!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen burritos?
For the best results when reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the burritos from the freezer (no need to thaw), and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil to retain moisture and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are heated through. This helps keep them gooey and delicious!
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
When preparing smothered green chili burritos, keep in mind that some individuals may have allergies to specific ingredients. For instance, ensure your tortillas are gluten-free if catering to someone with a gluten sensitivity. Additionally, be mindful of dairy allergies; you can easily substitute cheese with dairy-free options and use yogurt or nut-based creamy alternatives.
What can I do if my burrito filling is too dry?
If you find your filling is a bit on the dry side, don’t worry—just add a couple of tablespoons of enchilada sauce or a splash of broth to the mixture before rolling. This not only enhances the moisture but also elevates the flavor! Adjusting the texture can make a world of difference, ensuring each bite is as delightful as possible.
Mouthwatering Smothered Green Chili Burritos for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped medium onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned with no pink remaining. As it cooks, season with 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in 1 can of diced green chilies and 1 cup of red enchilada sauce into the beef mixture. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes over low heat, blending the flavors together.
- Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in ½ cup of sour cream until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Spoon about ¼ cup of the beef filling onto the center of each flour tortilla. Sprinkle a little shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top of the filling. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling.
- Pour any remaining beef mixture over the assembled burritos, followed by an additional sprinkle of shredded cheeses. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, let the burritos cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
