Taco Bell Enchirito

A cult classic from the Taco Bell vault, the Enchirito is a crave-worthy mashup of a burrito and enchilada. Stuffed with seasoned beef, beans, and onions, then smothered in red enchilada sauce and melted cheese, this comforting dish is rich, cheesy, and completely satisfying. It’s easy to make at home and perfect when you want to recreate the nostalgic flavors of fast food favorites—right from your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fast Food Favorite – A homemade version of a classic discontinued menu item.
Smothered & Cheesy – Saucy, savory, and baked with melted cheese.
Weeknight Friendly – Quick to prep and assemble.
Customizable – Easy to adapt with your favorite fillings.
Freezer Friendly – Make in batches for quick comfort meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• ½ cup water
• 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (10 oz) mild red enchilada sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp onion powder

For Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced black olives (optional)
• Chopped green onions (optional)

Tools You’ll Need
Skillet
Saucepan
Baking dish (9×13)
Spatula or spoon
Foil (for baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
Drain excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning and water.
Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Set aside.

Step 2: Warm the Beans
In a small pot or microwave-safe bowl, warm the refried beans until spreadable.
You can add a splash of water or broth to loosen them if needed.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, combine the enchilada sauce, garlic powder, cumin, and onion powder.
Heat over low heat until warm and slightly thickened—about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiritos
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center of a tortilla.
Top with seasoned beef and a sprinkle of chopped onion.
Roll tightly like a burrito and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Repeat with remaining tortillas.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
Top with shredded cheese and olives if using.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Uncover and bake for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Top with green onions or serve as is with a side of sour cream or salsa.

Tips for the Best Enchirito
Use Fresh Tortillas – Warm them slightly so they roll easily without tearing.
Don’t Overstuff – Makes it easier to roll and prevents leaking.
Make it Spicy – Add hot sauce or use medium/hot enchilada sauce for extra kick.
Double the Batch – Freeze one dish before baking for an easy future meal.
Switch the Meat – Ground chicken, turkey, or shredded beef also work great.

Serving Suggestions
With Spanish Rice – Classic combo for a hearty Tex-Mex meal.
With a Side Salad – Crisp greens and avocado for balance.
With Corn Salsa – Sweet and spicy topping or side.
With Tortilla Chips – Scoop up the extra sauce and cheese.
As a Platter – Add Mexican street corn and beans for a full fiesta.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individually or the entire pan in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil.
Microwave: Reheat individual portions for 1–2 minutes until hot.
Air Fryer: Use for quick reheating with a crispy edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an Enchirito?
An Enchirito is a classic Taco Bell menu item—a cross between an enchilada and a burrito, typically filled with beef, beans, onions, topped with sauce and cheese.

2. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—use just beans, add sautéed veggies, or substitute with lentils or meat alternatives.

3. Is it spicy?
This version is mild. Add jalapeños, spicy salsa, or hot sauce to kick it up.

4. Can I use corn tortillas?
Corn tortillas tend to crack and aren’t ideal for burrito-style wraps—stick to flour tortillas.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance, then bake before serving.

Final Thoughts
The Taco Bell Enchirito may be off the menu, but it lives on in your kitchen with this easy, comforting, and oh-so-cheesy recipe. With bold Tex-Mex flavor and a nostalgic twist, it’s the perfect make-at-home meal for fans of classic fast food done better.

Make it tonight and bring back the flavor of a legend!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Tex-Mex / Copycat

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 of 6):
Calories: 460 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 780mg

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