Irresistibly Smothered Green Chili Burritos Recipe: Your New Favorite Comfort Food!
There’s something magical about the way certain meals can transport you back to your childhood. For me, it’s the aroma of Smothered Green Chili Burritos wafting from the kitchen, making my mouth water and my heart swell with nostalgia. Growing up, my mom would whip these up on chilly evenings, welcoming us home with a warm embrace, both literally and figuratively. These burritos, stuffed with flavorful fillings and drenched in a creamy green chili sauce, are more than just food; they are a symbol of home, comfort, and family time.
What makes my Smothered Green Chili Burritos Recipe stand out from the rest? It’s all about the winning combination of spices that infuse each bite with flavor, the gooey melted cheese that oozes out, and that unforgettable green chili sauce that ties it all together. You’ll find that this recipe is not just easy to make but adaptable to your personal taste preferences too.
In this post, I promise you’ll learn how to create these delightful burritos from scratch, uncovering tips and tricks that ensure every bite is as good as the last. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, these burritos will leave an impression!
What Are Smothered Green Chili Burritos?
Smothered Green Chili Burritos are a delectable blend of textures and flavors that hail from the Southwestern United States, where bold spices and vibrant ingredients reign supreme. Picture soft flour tortillas filled with seasoned meat and creamy refried beans, all wrapped snugly and then generously covered in a luscious green chili sauce—who could resist?
The first bite unveils a harmonious balance of spiced meat and melted cheese, followed by the warmth and zest of the green chili sauce. If you’re looking for comfort food that feels both familiar and exciting, these burritos fit the bill perfectly.
These are ideal for cozy family dinners, movie nights, or feeding a hungry crowd, and they can be prepared in under an hour, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Unmatched Flavor: This recipe boasts a thoughtfully crafted balance of savory, spicy, and creamy elements. The combination of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and that irresistible green chili sauce is a game-changer.
Cost-Effective: Ditch the pricey takeout! Making Smothered Green Chili Burritos at home allows you to save money while feeding a small army without skimping on flavor.
Endless Customization: Not only can you switch out proteins—think shredded chicken, pork, or even hearty vegetables for a meat-free version—but you can also choose different toppings like jalapeños or sour cream to tweak the flavor profiles to your liking.
Simple Prep: Don’t worry if you’re not a kitchen whiz; this recipe is beginner-friendly! Aside from some chopping and mixing, the steps are straightforward. It all comes together in about 30 minutes.
Family Pleaser: These burritos are incredibly popular with kids and adults alike. I can’t begin to tell you how many requests I get for this dish at family gatherings—not a single scrap ever goes to waste!
Ingredients Section
Here’s what you’ll need for these mouthwatering Smothered Green Chili Burritos:
For the Burritos:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (or shredded chicken, pork, or beef)
- 1 small onion, diced (sweet onions, like Vidalia, work great)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (I love using Old El Paso for its balanced spice)
- 1 (15 oz) can refried beans (feel free to use homemade for a fresher taste!)
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (like Hatch brand for authenticity)
- 6 large flour tortillas (opt for whole wheat for a healthier twist)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
For the Green Chili Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium for more control over salt)
- 1 (7 oz) can diced green chilies (again, I recommend Hatch for rich flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for a creamy finish in the sauce)
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- More sour cream for drizzling
Prep Notes: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth sauce, and feel free to swap out meats or even go vegetarian with black beans or lentils!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef (or your chosen protein). Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!
- Season: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, diced green chilies, and refried beans. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Burritos:
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare with Tortillas: Lay the large tortillas on a clean surface and divide the meat and bean mixture evenly onto each. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the filling.
- Roll Them Up: Roll each tortilla tightly. Place them seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Green Chili Sauce:
- Cook the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook it for 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly golden.
- Incorporate Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Stir in the diced green chilies, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream until smooth.
Smother the Burritos:
- Pour and Top: Drizzle the green chili sauce evenly over the burritos. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Bake:
- Oven Time: Bake the burritos in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Enjoy: Take the burritos out and let them sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream if desired. Serve hot!
Chef’s Tips:
- If the tortillas tear while rolling, warm them slightly in the microwave to soften before filling.
- For an extra touch, let them crisp up for an additional 5 minutes at the end of baking.
Expert Tips & Tricks
Make-Ahead: You can assemble your burritos ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just keep the sauce separate until you are ready to cook.
Storage Recommendations: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap them tightly in foil.
Going Vegetarian? Try replacing meat with black beans or lentils for a nutritious spin that will satisfy your veggie-loving friends!
Troubleshooting: If your sauce seems too thick, whisk in a little more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Leftover Meat? This is a fantastic recipe for using leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked meats you have on hand!
Freezing Tips: To freeze, let burritos cool completely first, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil before storing in a freezer-safe bag.
Serving Suggestions
These Smothered Green Chili Burritos are perfect on their own, but why stop there? Serve them alongside a fresh side salad, zesty Mexican rice, or crispy tortilla chips. The visual presentation can be fun too; try arranging the burritos on a large platter, drizzling extra sauce over the top, and scattering fresh toppings all around for a vibrant table centerpiece.
This meal fits well for casual family dinners or even cozy gatherings with friends. They also make fantastic game-day snacks or quick weeknight dinners!
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these variations to tailor your burritos to your tastes:
- Meat Swaps: Use turkey, ground chicken, or even shredded beef for a heartier option. For a vegetarian delight, load them with sautéed peppers, mushrooms, and black beans.
- Spice Level: For heat lovers, add diced jalapeños to the filling or use spicy green chilies in the sauce. A dash of hot sauce or cayenne works wonders too!
- Seasonal Flair: Try adding roasted corn, diced tomatoes, or even fresh avocado as seasonal toppings to give your burritos a fresh twist.
Nutrition & Storage Info
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Estimated calories per serving: 560 calories
Storage Instructions:
- Room Temp: Best enjoyed warm. If left out for more than 2 hours, please discard.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming up.
FAQ Section
Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a fabulous alternative for an extra boost of fiber.How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños to the filling or use a hotter green chili in the sauce.Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them in advance and store them in the fridge, baking them fresh when ready.What sides pair well with these burritos?
Tortilla chips with guacamole or a fresh salad make excellent accompaniments!How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.Can I make them vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap in black beans, lentils, or roasted vegetables for a delicious veggie version.What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or even water will work in a pinch, although the flavor may vary slightly.How can I prevent tortillas from tearing?
Warming the tortillas briefly makes them more pliable, reducing the chance of tears when rolling.Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn will enhance the texture and flavor.What if I prefer not to use sour cream?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option or omit it completely; the sauce will still be creamy without it.
Conclusion
This Smothered Green Chili Burritos Recipe truly has it all—rich flavors, comforting nostalgia, and the promise of a satisfied crowd. Whether you take a solo night in or host friends, these burritos are sure to impress!
I’d love for you to give this recipe a try and share your thoughts with me! Did you make any variations? How did your family like it? Don’t forget to check out my other recipes for more delicious inspirations!
Stay hungry and happy cooking!
Smothered Green Chili Burritos
Ingredients
For the Burritos
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (or shredded chicken, pork, or beef)
- 1 small onion, diced Sweet onions, like Vidalia, work great
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning Old El Paso is recommended for balanced spice
- 1 15 oz can refried beans Feel free to use homemade for a fresher taste
- 1 4 oz can diced green chilies Hatch brand for authenticity
- 6 large flour tortillas Opt for whole wheat for a healthier twist
- 2 cups shredded cheese Cheddar or Mexican blend
For the Green Chili Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter Room temperature
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1.5 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium for more control over salt
- 1 7 oz can diced green chilies Hatch for rich flavor
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 cup sour cream For a creamy finish in the sauce
Optional Toppings
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- More sour cream for drizzling
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef (or your chosen protein). Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, diced green chilies, and refried beans. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Burritos
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay the large tortillas on a clean surface and divide the meat and bean mixture evenly onto each. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the filling.
- Roll each tortilla tightly. Place them seam-side down in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Make the Green Chili Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook it for 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Stir in the diced green chilies, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream until smooth.
Smother the Burritos
- Drizzle the green chili sauce evenly over the burritos. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Bake
- Bake the burritos in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
- Take the burritos out and let them sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream if desired. Serve hot!