Smothered Green Chili Burritos

Smothered Green Chili Burritos are a delicious dish filled with savory ingredients and covered in a rich, spicy sauce. They combine soft tortillas, bold green chilies, tender meat or beans, and melted cheese into a warm, comforting meal. Picture yourself cozying up with one of these burritos, dripping with vibrant hues and packed with mouth-watering flavors.

Ingredients for Smothered Green Chili Burritos

To make these delightful burritos, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

  • For the Burrito Filling
    • 4 large flour tortillas (make them as soft as you can)
    • 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (or beef or beans for vegetarian option)
    • 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
    • 1 cup cooked rice
    • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work great)
  • For the Green Chili Sauce
    • 2 cups green chili sauce (canned or homemade)
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
    • 1 teaspoon cumin
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For Garnishing
  • Fresh cilantro (for a burst of freshness)
  • Sour cream (optional, but oh-so-good)
  • Chopped green onions or jalapeños (if you like a bit of heat)

How to Make Smothered Green Chili Burritos

Making these burritos is straightforward, and you’ll love how they come together.

  1. Prepare the Green Chili Sauce:
    • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
    • Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute.
    • Stir in the green chili sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  2. Assemble the Burritos:
    • Take a flour tortilla and place a portion of cooked chicken, black beans, and rice in the center.
    • Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the filling.
    • Fold in the sides, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
  3. Smother the Burritos:
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* In a baking dish, pour a layer of the green chili sauce on the bottom.
* Place your assembled burritos seam side down in the dish.
* Pour the remaining green chili sauce over the top and sprinkle with extra cheese.
  1. Bake:
    • Bake the burritos in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Garnish and Serve:
    • Once out of the oven, top with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and chopped green onions. Serve hot!
See also  Pepper Steak Quesadillas Recipe

Tips for the Best Smothered Green Chili Burritos

  • Choosing Tortillas: Go for fresh tortillas whenever possible. They are more pliable and hold up better to rolling and baking.
  • Filling Variety: Feel free to mix and match your fillings. Black beans, corn, diced peppers, and even veggies can enhance your burrito experience.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare your burritos ahead of time. Assemble them up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

How to Serve Smothered Green Chili Burritos

Smothered Green Chili Burritos are a meal in themselves, but you can make it an occasion with some delicious sides:

  • Mexican Rice: Fluffy, flavorful rice compliments the burritos perfectly.
  • Refried Beans: A hearty scoop of refried beans adds richness to the meal.
  • Fresh Salad: A light salad with avocado, tomatoes, and lime dressing will balance out the heaviness of the burritos.
  • Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa make for a fun appetizer.

Storage Tips for Smothered Green Chili Burritos

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they are so good), you can store them easily:

  • Refrigerate: Place cooled burritos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to a month. Just remember to reheat thoroughly.

Variations of Smothered Green Chili Burritos

Burritos are versatile, so feel free to experiment! Here are some fun variations:

  • Vegetarian: Replace the meat with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
  • Breakfast Burrito: Swap the chicken for scrambled eggs and add potatoes, peppers, and cheese for a morning treat.
  • Seafood Burrito: You can use shrimp or fish with a limey twist for a lighter option.
See also  Cottage Cheese Pancakes Recipe

Nutritional Benefits of Smothered Green Chili Burritos

Even though these recipes are indulgent, they can be nutritious too:

  • Protein: Lean proteins from chicken or beans help keep you fuller longer.
  • Fiber: Black beans add fiber, promoting digestive health.
  • Vitamins: Fresh toppings like cilantro and diced tomatoes add vitamins.

Eating Smothered Green Chili Burritos doesn’t have to mean sacrificing health for flavor. With a blend of wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy this comforting dish while nourishing your body.

With Smothered Green Chili Burritos on your table, you’re set for a flavorful meal that your family will love. Whether you savor them on a casual weeknight or serve them at a gathering, these burritos are sure to impress with their deliciousness. So gather up your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy every delicious bite!