Grandma's Legendary Enchirito Recipe


For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/plant-based crumbles)

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)

  • ½ cup water

  • 1 (16 oz) can refried beans

For the Sauce:

  • 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce

  • ½ cup tomato sauce

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

For Assembly:

  • 6 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup diced onions (optional)

  • ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)

For Topping:

  • Extra cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro

(Grandma’s secret: A splash of pickle juice in the beef for tang!)


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Filling

  1. Brown beef and onion in a skillet; drain fat.

  2. Stir in taco seasoning, water, and refried beans. Simmer 5 minutes.

2. Make the Sauce

  1. Mix enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, cumin, and garlic powder in a bowl.

3. Assemble the Enchiritos

  1. Spread ½ cup sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  2. Fill each tortilla with beef-bean mixture + cheese, then roll.

  3. Place seam-side down in the dish.

  4. Pour remaining sauce over top, then sprinkle with cheese, onions, and olives.

4. Bake to Bubbly Perfection

  1. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

  2. Uncover, bake 5–10 more minutes until cheese melts.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Top with sour cream, cilantro, and extra sauce.

  • Serve with Spanish rice or chips.


Serving Suggestions & Twists

🌶 Spicy version – Add diced jalapeños to the filling.
🧀 Extra cheesy – Mix cream cheese into the beef.
🥑 Fresh twist – Top with avocado or pico de gallo.
🍚 Low-carb option – Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.