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Close-up overhead shot of baked smothered ground beef burritos in a white ceramic rectangular casserole dish. (Smothered Ground Beef Burritos)

Smothered Ground Beef Burritos: The Ultimate Cheesy Baked Comfort Food

These Smothered Ground Beef Burritos feature savory meat wrapped in large tortillas, completely drenched in thick red enchilada sauce, and baked with a bubbling, beautifully charred layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 3 burritos
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 850
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Smothered Ground Beef Burritos Ingredients
  • 1 lb lean ground beef 80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and tenderness.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing aromatics.
  • 0.5 cup diced white onion Sautéed until translucent.
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning blend Provides the foundational savory and spicy flavor.
  • 0.25 cup water Added to the beef to create a thick, glossy sauce.
  • 3 large flour tortillas 10-inch (25cm) size for rolling.
  • 2 cups thick dark red enchilada sauce To completely drench the burritos.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Freshly grated.
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese Freshly grated.
  • 2 tbsp fresh green cilantro leaves Finely chopped for garnish.

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch (23x33cm) white ceramic rectangular casserole dish Used for baking the burritos side-by-side.
  • 1 Large Non-Stick Skillet Used for browning the ground beef filling.

Method
 

Preparation and Baking
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced white onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  2. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula into fine, even crumbles. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains.
  3. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2 minutes until the liquid thickens, coating the beef.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the seasoned ground beef evenly among the three large flour tortillas. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly.
  5. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down, side by side, in a 9x13 inch white ceramic rectangular casserole dish.
  6. Pour the thick red enchilada sauce entirely over the tortillas until fully drenched. Sprinkle the top generously with the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, melted, and slightly browned in spots. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro.

Notes

Preventing Soggy Bottoms: Do not pour sauce into the bottom of the casserole dish before placing the burritos down.
Achieving the Cheese Char: If your cheese is melted but lacks those beautiful browned spots, switch your oven to broil for exactly 1-2 minutes, watching it carefully.