If you’ve ever found yourself craving that comforting Tex-Mex classic that combines hearty beef, creamy beans, and that irresistibly tangy sauce, then this Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish captures all the nostalgic flavors of the original Enchirito but with the satisfaction of making it yourself from scratch. Each bite is a glorious medley of seasoned ground beef, smooth refried beans, sharp cheddar cheese, and bold enchilada sauce wrapped snugly in warm tortillas, baked to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser, this recipe is a guaranteed winner that brings a little slice of Taco Bell magic right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish stand out. From the seasoned beef adding savory richness, to the refried beans providing creamy depth, every component works together to create that classic enchirito taste you love.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein, browned to perfection for a juicy, flavorful base.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: Brings the quintessential Tex-Mex spice blend that infuses the beef with a vibrant kick.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps combine the seasoning with the beef, creating a luscious sauce.
- 1 (16 oz) can refried beans: Adds creamy texture and a subtle earthiness to balance the savory meat.
- 8 medium flour tortillas: The perfect soft wraps that hold everything together.
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce: Coats the enchiritos in tangy, slightly spicy goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for gooey, savory richness.
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional): Adds a fresh crunch and mild pungency that complements the beef.
- Nonstick spray or a drizzle of oil: To lightly grease the baking dish, ensuring easy cleanup.
How to Make Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef with Seasoning
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking your ground beef until it’s beautifully browned with no pink left. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily. Then, stir in your taco seasoning packet along with half a cup of water, allowing it to simmer gently for about five minutes. This step thickens the mixture while infusing the beef with those classic Tex-Mex flavors that are essential to a great enchirito.
Step 2: Prepare the Refried Beans
While your beef simmers, warm up your canned refried beans either on the stovetop or in the microwave until they’re easy to spread. This creamy layer adds that satisfying smoothness against the hearty meat, making each bite balanced and rich.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiritos
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom to keep things moist. Then, take each flour tortilla and spread a generous layer of refried beans over it. Add a good scoop of the seasoned beef on top, followed by a sprinkle of chopped onions if you like that extra crunch and zest. Roll each tortilla up tightly and place them seam-side down in your prepared dish, repeating until all tortillas are neatly lined up.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese, Then Bake
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled enchiritos, ensuring each one gets a tangy coating. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top—it will melt and bubble beautifully in the oven. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through. The result? A comforting, cheesy, saucy Tex-Mex delight that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
How to Serve Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes elevates your enchirito from simple comfort food to something truly special. A few finely chopped fresh onions or a sprinkle of crispy, fresh cilantro can add brightness. For a creamy contrast, dollops of cool sour cream or guacamole bring a luscious finish that tempers the bold sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement without overwhelming. Consider a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette to add some crunch and freshness. Tortilla chips with salsa or a zesty pico de gallo also make fantastic accompaniments that enhance the overall Tex-Mex experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, try serving these enchiritos in individual small cast iron skillets or on colorful ceramic plates for a festive look. You might also top them with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of chipotle crema for a smoky twist. Offering a build-your-own toppings bar with diced tomatoes, olives, and shredded lettuce lets everyone customize their own perfect enchirito.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days, retaining most of their delicious texture and flavor. Just be sure to cool them before refrigerating to maintain food safety.
Freezing
To enjoy this meal later, wrap each individual enchirito tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully and can be kept for up to two months. This makes it super convenient to have a homemade Tex-Mex favorite ready to pop in the oven anytime you need a quick comfort meal.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your saved enchirito, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave leftovers, though the oven method helps keep the tortillas less soggy and the cheese tasting fresh.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lighter alternative that still holds the seasonings well and works great in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it fully and drain any excess moisture before adding the seasoning.
What type of enchilada sauce should I buy?
Choose either mild or hot enchilada sauce depending on your spice tolerance. Mild sauce keeps the dish approachable for everyone, while hot sauce adds a fiery punch. Both work beautifully in this Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. Many grocery stores carry high-quality gluten-free options that taste great and keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Definitely. Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans for a satisfying vegetarian version. Season and assemble everything the same way to keep that authentic enchirito taste.
Can I prepare the enchiritos ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiritos a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Just add the cheese and bake them before serving to ensure they’re warm and gooey.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that brings family and friends together around the table with smiles and satisfied appetites. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet flavorful enough to make any meal feel special. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comfort of Tex-Mex magic made fresh and yours to savor anytime you like.
Print
Homemade Taco Bell Enchirito Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 enchiritos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This homemade Taco Bell Enchirito recipe recreates the classic Tex-Mex favorite with flavorful seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and a generous helping of cheese baked inside soft flour tortillas smothered in enchilada sauce. It’s a comforting and satisfying main course perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
- 8 medium flour tortillas
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
- Nonstick spray or a drizzle of oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to get it ready for baking the enchiritos once assembled.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup water into the cooked beef. Reduce heat and allow it to simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld.
- Warm Refried Beans: Heat the refried beans in a saucepan or microwave until soft and spreadable for easy assembling.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or a small drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.
- Layer Sauce: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Assemble Enchiritos: Lay a tortilla flat, spread a layer of warm refried beans, add a scoop of the seasoned beef, and sprinkle chopped onions if using. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process for all tortillas.
- Add Remaining Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the cheese has melted nicely.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot. Optionally garnish with extra chopped onions or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Notes
- Choose mild or hot enchilada sauce depending on your spice preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
- Freeze leftover enchiritos individually to enjoy quick meals later by reheating in the oven or microwave.
