If you’re a fan of classic Taco Bell favorites, then you’re going to love this homemade Enchirito recipe. The Enchirito is a delicious combination of a burrito and an enchilada, featuring seasoned ground beef, refried beans, soft flour tortillas, savory red enchilada sauce, and melted cheese. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
This copycat version recreates the beloved fast-food favorite right in your own kitchen using simple ingredients. The result is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or whenever you’re craving a nostalgic comfort-food dish.
Unlike traditional burritos, the Enchirito is covered in warm enchilada sauce and topped with melted cheese, making it extra rich and flavorful. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of seasoned beef, creamy beans, soft tortillas, and cheesy goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy homemade copycat recipe
- Loaded with flavor
- Family-friendly meal
- Perfect comfort food
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Great for meal prep
- Ready in under an hour
- Better than takeout
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield
- 6 Enchiritos
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup water
Additional Filling
- 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
For Assembly
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced onions
Optional Toppings
- Sliced black olives
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Jalapeño slices
- Green onions
Ingredient Notes
Ground Beef
An 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef blend works best for flavor and tenderness.
Refried Beans
Traditional refried beans help create the authentic Enchirito texture.
Enchilada Sauce
Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade enchilada sauce for deeper flavor.
Cheese
Cheddar cheese closely resembles the classic version, but a Mexican cheese blend also works well.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Add:
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Water
Stir well and simmer for 3–4 minutes until the liquid reduces.
Remove from heat.
Step 3: Warm the Beans
Heat the refried beans in a small saucepan or microwave until spreadable.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiritos
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
Spread approximately ¼ cup refried beans down the center.
Top with seasoned beef and a sprinkle of diced onions.
Roll the tortilla burrito-style.
Place seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish.
Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour enchilada sauce evenly over all the rolled tortillas.
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top.
Add sliced olives if desired.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (Approximate)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fiber: 5g
Tips for Success
Don’t Overfill
Overstuffing can make the tortillas difficult to roll.
Warm the Tortillas
Microwave tortillas for 15–20 seconds before filling to prevent cracking.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Let It Rest
Allow the Enchiritos to rest briefly after baking for easier serving.
Variations
Chicken Enchirito
Substitute shredded chicken for the ground beef.
Bean and Cheese Enchirito
Skip the meat and add extra beans and cheese.
Spicy Enchirito
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
Steak Enchirito
Use seasoned diced steak instead of ground beef.
Vegetarian Version
Fill with beans, rice, corn, peppers, and cheese.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze assembled but unbaked Enchiritos for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Enchirito with:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Corn salad
- Tortilla chips
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Fresh green salad
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Enchirito?
An Enchirito combines elements of a burrito and an enchilada. It is filled like a burrito but covered with enchilada sauce and melted cheese.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything in advance and bake just before serving.
Can I use corn tortillas?
Flour tortillas are more traditional for this recipe, but corn tortillas can be substituted.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar or a Mexican blend provides the closest flavor to the original
