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Smothered Green Chili Burritos

Comforting burritos filled with flavorful meat and beans, smothered in a zesty green chili sauce and topped with melted cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Mexican, Southwestern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 560 kcal

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!

Notes

Make sure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth sauce. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. These burritos can be made vegetarian by substituting meat with black beans or lentils.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Family Dinner, Green Chili, Smothered Burritos