Ingredients
For the Burritos
- 8 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 2 (16-ounce) cans refried beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced white onion
- ¼ cup sliced pickled jalapeños (optional)
For the Homemade Red Sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Diced tomatoes
- Hot sauce
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a saucepan and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne. Cook for 30 seconds.
- Slowly whisk in the water, then add the tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until thickened.
- Warm the refried beans over medium-low heat until smooth and creamy, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave or oven until soft and flexible.
- Spread about ½ cup of refried beans onto each tortilla.
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños if desired.
- Spoon a few tablespoons of the warm red sauce over the filling.
- Fold in the sides, roll the tortilla tightly into a burrito, and place seam-side down.
- For a crispy finish, toast the burritos in a dry skillet for 2 minutes per side.
- Serve hot with extra red sauce, sour cream, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Warm tortillas before assembling to prevent tearing.
- Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper for a milder or spicier red sauce.
- Add seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or Mexican rice for a heartier burrito.
- Leftover burritos can be refrigerated or frozen for quick meals.
- The homemade red sauce can be made a day in advance and refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian