Next, I mix in the refried beans, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through. This mixture should start to look thick and hearty – perfect for our Enchirito filling. While that’s cooking, I prepare my tortillas by slightly warming them in the microwave for about 10 seconds; this makes them easier to roll. Once they’re pliable, I lay them out and start to assemble my enchiritos by adding a generous scoop of the beef and bean mixture to the center.
Now comes the fun part! I sprinkle a little cheddar cheese over the filling, then roll the tortilla tightly from one side to the other, making sure to tuck in the ends as I go. I place each rolled enchirito seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Once all my enchiritos are snugly arranged, I pour the enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring that every inch is covered – because, let’s be honest, sauce is life! I finish off by sprinkling more cheese on top. Yum!
Finally, I bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. During this time, my kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma that brings everyone running. When they’re done, I love to garnish my Enchiritos with fresh lettuce and diced tomatoes for that perfect crunch.
Pro Tips for Best Results
When I tested this recipe, I tried using different meats—ground turkey, chicken, and even a meatless option with lentils. I found that each worked beautifully, but the ground beef has that classic taste I remember most fondly.
Another tip is to really let your fillings cool slightly before rolling them up. If the mixture is too hot, it can tear the tortillas, making it a bit messy. You want those tortillas to roll up nicely and hold all that goodness inside!
Lastly, if you’re a fan of spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce directly into the beef mixture. It gives the Enchirito a delightful kick that I can’t get enough of!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made the first time I tried this recipe was using cold tortillas straight from the package. They cracked and tore when I tried to roll them. Trust me, a little microwave time makes all the difference and prevents a lot of frustration. (See the next page below to continue…)