Frozen burritos are a lifesaver when we need a quick and satisfying meal. But turning them into something truly delicious takes just a few extra steps. Our frozen burrito with enchilada sauce recipe transforms a simple frozen treat into a flavorful dish packed with rich, tangy sauce and melted cheese.
This recipe combines the convenience of frozen burritos with the bold flavors of homemade enchilada sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without much effort. Let’s dive into how we can elevate a frozen burrito into a mouthwatering dinner everyone will love.
Ingredients
To transform frozen burritos into a flavorful meal, we focus on two main components: the burritos themselves and the rich enchilada sauce. Below are the essential ingredients to bring this simple recipe to life.
For the Frozen Burritos
We use store-bought frozen burritos, choosing varieties that suit our taste preferences. Consider options filled with:
- Beef, chicken, or beans for protein
- Cheese for added creaminess
- Rice and beans as hearty fillers
Selecting burritos with balanced fillings will ensure the best texture and taste after adding the enchilada sauce.
For the Enchilada Sauce
Our homemade enchilada sauce uses fresh ingredients to create a tangy, slightly spicy, and rich flavor that complements the burritos perfectly.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing spices |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | Thickens the sauce |
| Chili powder | 3 tablespoons | Primary flavor and mild spice |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds depth |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Enhances savory notes |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Earthy undertone |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon | Traditional enchilada flavor |
| Tomato sauce | 2 cups | Base of the sauce |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 1 cup | Adjusts thickness |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Balances flavors |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds mild heat |
By combining these ingredients, the sauce develops a delicious complexity that elevates the simple frozen burrito into a satisfying, restaurant-quality dish.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Frozen Burrito with Enchilada Sauce, having the right equipment ensures smooth, efficient cooking and the best results. Below is a detailed list of essential kitchen tools and their purpose during the recipe process.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Nonstick Skillet | To cook and warm the frozen burritos evenly |
| Medium Saucepan | For preparing the homemade enchilada sauce |
| Whisk | To blend sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps |
| Measuring Cups | Accurate measurement of liquid and dry ingredients |
| Measuring Spoons | For precise spice and seasoning quantities |
| Spatula | To stir the sauce and flip burritos without breaking |
| Oven-safe Baking Dish | Optional, for finishing the burritos in the oven |
| Lid or Aluminum Foil | To cover burritos while simmering in sauce |
| Chef’s Knife | For chopping fresh garlic or herbs if used |
| Cutting Board | Safe surface for any prep work |
By organizing our tools ahead, we streamline the cooking process, making it quicker and more enjoyable. Each item plays a role in transforming simple frozen burritos into a dish bursting with rich, tangy flavor from the enchilada sauce.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, proper preparation sets the foundation for a flavorful and efficient kitchen experience. Let’s get everything ready to transform those frozen burritos with enchilada sauce into a delicious meal.
Preparing the Enchilada Sauce
- Gather Ingredients: Measure out all components precisely. Use olive oil, flour, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, tomato sauce, broth, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the Pan: Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm.
- Make the Roux: Slowly whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to the hot oil. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes while whisking constantly until it’s lightly golden.
- Add Dry Spices: Gradually whisk in chili powder (1 tablespoon), garlic powder (1 teaspoon), onion powder (1 teaspoon), ground cumin (1 teaspoon), and dried oregano (1 teaspoon). Toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
- Incorporate Liquids: Pour in 1 cup of tomato sauce and 1 cup of broth slowly while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes. The sauce should thicken and deepen in color.
- Season: Finish with salt (to taste, about ½ teaspoon) and freshly ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon). Adjust seasoning as needed.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Broth (chicken/veg) | 1 cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon (to taste) |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
“Whisking continuously during the roux stage is essential for preventing lumps and creating a smooth, rich sauce.”
Preparing the Frozen Burritos
- Thaw Slightly (Optional): To ensure even heating, remove frozen burritos from the package and let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. This step helps the inside warm thoroughly without burning the outside.
- Preheat Skillet: Warm a nonstick skillet over medium heat. No oil is necessary; we want a gentle crisp on the burrito tortilla.
- Cook Burritos: Place burritos in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning carefully with a spatula to avoid tearing. This step enhances texture, giving the burrito a light crisp outside.
- Prepare Oven Dish (Optional): If finishing in the oven with enchilada sauce and cheese, preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease an oven-safe baking dish.
- Layer Burritos: Once browned, place the burritos seam side down in the prepared dish. This prevents unraveling during baking.
Pro tip: Preparing the burritos in the skillet before baking locks in texture and flavor while preventing sogginess.
| Step | Details | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slight Thawing | Room temperature rest | 5-10 minutes | Room temp |
| Skillet Heating | Nonstick, medium heat | 3-4 minutes per side | Medium |
| Oven Preheating (optional) | For baked finish | Until 375°F | 375°F (190°C) |
| Baking Burritos (optional) | With sauce and cheese | 10-15 minutes | 375°F (190°C) |
By mastering these prep steps, we set ourselves up to elevate frozen burritos with a rich homemade enchilada sauce for a comforting and savory meal.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s transform our frozen burritos into a vibrant meal with homemade enchilada sauce. Follow these precise steps to achieve the perfect blend of crisp burritos and rich sauce.
How to Cook the Frozen Burritos
- Slightly thaw the frozen burritos by leaving them at room temperature for 10 minutes. This ensures even heating.
- Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Place the burritos in the skillet, cooking for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until the exterior becomes golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Use a spatula to turn burritos carefully, preventing the filling from spilling.
- For extra crispiness, avoid covering the skillet to allow moisture to escape.
How to Make and Heat the Enchilada Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for 1 minute until lightly golden.
- Add the following spices while whisking to prevent lumps:
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
- Slowly whisk in 1 cup of tomato sauce and 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 8-10 minutes, whisking occasionally until thickened to a smooth consistency.
- Keep the sauce warm on low until ready to combine.
Combining the Burritos with the Enchilada Sauce
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if finishing in the oven.
- Place cooked burritos in an oven-safe baking dish.
- Generously pour the warm enchilada sauce evenly over the burritos, ensuring each one is coated.
- Optional: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack) over the top for a melty finish.
- Bake uncovered for 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce bubbles.
- For serving, garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños if desired.
“The secret to elevating frozen burritos lies in crisping the tortilla and coating them with flavorful, homemade enchilada sauce.”
Cooking Times Overview
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Thawing frozen burritos | 10 minutes |
| Pan cooking burritos | 8-10 minutes |
| Simmering enchilada sauce | 8-10 minutes |
| Baking combined dish (optional) | 10-12 minutes |
By following these steps we ensure our frozen burrito with enchilada sauce becomes a dish bursting with texture and rich flavor that rivals any restaurant.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Frozen Burrito with Enchilada Sauce experience by pairing it with complementary garnishes and side dishes. These suggestions bring balance, brightness, and texture to our flavorful meal.
Recommended Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider these garnishes that add freshness, creaminess, and a touch of heat:
- Fresh cilantro – chopped finely for herbal brightness
- Sour cream – spooned generously to balance the tanginess
- Diced avocado or guacamole – creamy contrast to the enchilada sauce
- Sliced jalapeños – fresh or pickled for a spicy kick
- Shredded lettuce – crisp, for added crunch
- Crumbled queso fresco or Cotija cheese – for an authentic Mexican finish
- Lime wedges – a squeeze adds uplifting acidity
Side Dishes to Pair
Pairing the Frozen Burrito with Enchilada Sauce with classic sides enriches the meal and offers textural variety. Here are our top recommendations:
| Side Dish | Description | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | Fluffy rice cooked with tomato, garlic, and onion | Serve warm with a sprinkle of cilantro |
| Refried Beans | Smooth and creamy pinto or black beans | Garnish with melted cheese |
| Corn Salad | Fresh corn, tomatoes, red onion, and lime juice | Add chopped jalapeños for heat |
| Pico de Gallo | Fresh salsa of tomato, onion, cilantro, and lime | Serve chilled |
| Tortilla Chips | Crispy and salty for dipping | Pair with guacamole or salsa |
| Grilled Vegetables | Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions with a light char | Season with cumin and lime juice |
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To maximize convenience and maintain the delicious flavors of our Frozen Burrito with Enchilada Sauce Recipe, planning ahead and proper storage are key. Here are essential tips to keep your meals fresh and ready when hunger strikes.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Assemble in Advance: We can fully prepare the enchilada sauce and partially cook the frozen burritos ahead of time. Once the sauce is cooled, store it separately to avoid sogginess.
- Par-cook Burritos: Lightly cook burritos just until the outer layer is warm and pliable but not crisp. This step reduces the final reheating time and helps ensure even texture.
- Combine Before Baking: For meal assemblies, place burritos in an oven-safe dish and pour enchilada sauce over when ready to bake. This method prevents the burritos from becoming overly saturated during storage.
Storage Guidelines
| Item | Storage Method | Storage Duration | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enchilada Sauce | Airtight container, refrigerated | Up to 5 days | Reheat gently to avoid breaking sauce |
| Par-cooked Burritos | Wrapped individually in foil or plastic wrap, refrigerated | Up to 3 days | Reheat in oven or skillet for best texture |
| Fully Assembled Burritos with Sauce | Covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap, refrigerated | 1-2 days | Bake from chilled; add extra cheese if desired |
Freezing Tips
- Freeze cooked burritos wrapped individually in foil or freezer-safe bags to avoid freezer burn.
- For enchilada sauce, we recommend freezing in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Thaw sauce separately and reheat slowly to maintain smooth texture.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burritos in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. Remove foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp up edges.
- Skillet Method: Reheat burritos in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed evenly and crisped. Add sauce after reheating to maintain texture.
“For the best dining experience, we recommend reheating gently and avoiding microwaving the burritos with sauce together, as this can lead to sogginess and uneven heating.”
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we ensure each serving of our Frozen Burrito with Enchilada Sauce retains its rich, tangy flavor and satisfying texture every time.
Conclusion
This Frozen Burrito with Enchilada Sauce recipe proves that convenience and flavor can go hand in hand. With just a few simple steps and fresh ingredients, we can elevate a quick meal into something truly satisfying.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish offers a perfect balance of ease and taste. By preparing ahead and using the storage tips, we can enjoy this flavorful meal anytime without compromising quality.
It’s a great way to bring a little extra zest and comfort to our table with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this frozen burrito recipe better than just heating the burritos?
Adding homemade enchilada sauce and melted cheese elevates the flavor, giving the burritos a rich, tangy taste and a crispy texture that frozen burritos alone don’t have.
Can I use any frozen burrito for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought frozen burritos with your preferred fillings like beef, chicken, beans, or cheese. Just make sure they have hearty fillers like rice for best results.
How do I make the enchilada sauce from scratch?
The sauce is made by creating a roux with olive oil and flour, then whisking in chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, tomato sauce, broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
What kitchen tools do I need to prepare this dish?
Essential tools include a nonstick skillet, medium saucepan, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, spatula, and an oven-safe baking dish if you want to finish the burritos in the oven.
Should the burritos be thawed before cooking?
Yes, slightly thaw the frozen burritos first to ensure even heating and a crispy exterior when cooked in the skillet.
Can I make this dish ahead and store it?
Yes, you can prepare the enchilada sauce and par-cook the burritos in advance. Store them separately in the fridge or freezer to prevent sogginess.
How do I reheat the burritos without losing texture?
Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve crispness. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it can make the burritos soggy.
What are some recommended garnishes and sides?
Garnishes like fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, and lime wedges complement the dish well. Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or corn salad for a complete meal.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Absolutely. The recipe is simple, quick, and uses frozen burritos, making it ideal for easy, comforting meals on busy days.
Can I freeze the fully assembled burritos?
Yes, wrap cooked burritos individually and freeze. Portion the enchilada sauce separately for best freshness and texture when reheating.