Beef and Bean Burritos with Red Chile Sauce

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 (15 oz/425g) can of refried beans
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
• Salt and pepper to your preference

For the Red Chile Sauce:

• 3 tbsp (45ml) vegetable oil
• 3 tbsp (24g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp chili powder (use Chimayo chili powder if available)
• 2 cups (480ml) chicken or beef broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt to taste

For the Burritos:

• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend (for the topping)

For Garnish:

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Optional: Sliced jalapeños

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

• Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
• Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in diced onion and garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes until softened.
• Season the Filling: Mix in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the refried beans and stir until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Red Chile Sauce

• Create a Roux: In a medium saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
• Add Spices and Broth: Whisk in chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, and broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
• Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Burritos

• Fill the Tortillas: Spoon the beef and bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, then fold and roll into burritos.
• Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Pour the red chile sauce over the top, ensuring the burritos are fully covered.

Step 4: Bake

• Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the burritos.
• Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Plate the Burritos: Serve hot, garnished with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and optional jalapeños on the side.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze assembled but unbaked burritos for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

Enjoy Your Mexican Beef and Bean Burritos!
This hearty dish, smothered in flavorful Red Chile Sauce, is a comforting meal that everyone will love. 🎉