Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos

This Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos recipe is the epitome of comfort food meets convenience. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform simple frozen burritos into a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Imagine a plate filled with warm burritos, smothered in a creamy green chili sauce, topped off with cheese and fresh cilantro. It’s a meal that speaks to the heart and satisfies the stomach!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos are not just easy to make, but they’re also incredibly versatile. This dish allows you to indulge in the rich flavors of the Southwest without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce combined with the hearty burritos creates a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a fun dish to serve for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Whether you’re a busy parent or a college student on a budget, this recipe is a lifesaver.

What Goes Into Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos

To whip up this delicious meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 frozen bean & cheese burritos (such as El Monterey)
• 1 cup fat-free sour cream
• 7 oz diced green chiles (1 can)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup loosely packed cilantro
• 1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese
• 10 oz frozen corn & butter (1 bag, such as Green Giant)
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you dive into this culinary adventure, gather your kitchen essentials:

• Baking dish (9×13 inch works great)
• Mixing bowl for the sauce
• Whisk for blending ingredients
• Spatula for spreading the sauce
• Knife and cutting board for prepping veggies

Step-by-Step: Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your burritos will be hot and bubbly when they come out.

Step 2: Cook the Burritos

Place the frozen bean & cheese burritos on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This step is crucial to ensure your burritos are warm and ready to be smothered.

Step 3: Make the Green Chili Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the fat-free sour cream, diced green chiles, lime juice, lime zest, cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Prepare the Corn and Peppers

In a small saucepan, heat the frozen corn and butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced red bell pepper and cook until the corn is warmed through and the pepper is tender. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Once the burritos are heated, spread about half of the green chili sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the burritos on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the burritos, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Sprinkle the grated Monterey Jack cheese over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the burritos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Top with chopped cilantro and serve with the corn and pepper mixture on the side. Enjoy your Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos with a side of fresh lime wedges for an extra zing!

Seasonal Adaptations

One of the best parts about Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos is how you can adapt the recipe throughout the year:

• Spring: Add fresh avocado slices and use seasonal herbs like mint or basil for a fresh twist.
• Summer: Incorporate grilled corn and zucchini for a lighter, seasonal feel.
• Fall: Mix in roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a heartier version.
• Winter: Use a spicy pepper jack cheese for an extra kick to warm you up!

Steer Clear of These

While making Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos, it’s essential to keep in mind a few things to ensure the best results:

• Don’t overbake the burritos initially, as they can become tough.
• Avoid using too much sour cream in the sauce, as it can overpower the green chili flavor.
• Skip adding too many toppings directly on the burritos before baking, as they can burn.
• Refrain from using low-quality frozen burritos, as they can affect the overall taste of the dish.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you find yourself with leftovers or want to meal prep, here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If freezing, wrap individual burritos tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes or until heated through, adding a little extra sauce if needed.
• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use different types of burritos?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of frozen burritos, such as chicken or veggie options. Just ensure they are bean and cheese based for the best results with the sauce.

What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?

If you don’t have Monterey Jack cheese, you can use pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor. Both work wonderfully in this recipe.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, consider using spicier green chiles or adding diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, it may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

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The Takeaway

Smothered Green Chili (Store-Bought) Burritos are a delightful blend of convenience and flavor that can elevate your weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also easy to customize according to your tastes. This recipe is a testament to the fact that great meals don’t always require a ton of time or effort—sometimes, a good frozen burrito is all you need to create something special. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and bring a taste of the Southwest to your table tonight!