Experience the ultimate comfort food with these incredible Chili Potato Burritos! A delightful meatless option, these burritos are generously filled with fluffy mashed potatoes, perfectly seasoned with aromatic spices, and generously smothered in a rich, savory enchilada sauce. They’re hearty, satisfying, and an absolute treat for any meal.

Looking for more delicious meat-free main dishes? You might also enjoy our Baked Ravioli or classic Eggplant Parmesan.

Hearty & Flavorful: Your New Favorite Chili Potato Burritos Recipe

Life can be incredibly hectic, sometimes feeling like a whirlwind where even remembering your own name feels like a luxury. Yet, amidst the chaos, finding moments for delicious, homemade meals remains a grounding force. Surprisingly, even during my busiest weeks, I’ve managed to put dinner on the table almost every night. My secret weapon? Diligent menu planning and a collection of simple, freezer-friendly recipes like these amazing Chili Potato Burritos.

There was a time when menu planning felt like a constraint. I worried about not craving what I had planned or that ingredients would go to waste if my schedule shifted. Typically, I’d only plan a couple of meals at a time. However, recent weeks have pushed me to embrace a new strategy. With less time for frequent grocery runs, I’ve started planning out an entire week’s worth of meals and doing one comprehensive shopping trip. This new approach has been a game-changer, not only saving me time and stress but also ensuring we have wholesome meals ready to go, even on the most exhausting evenings.

In this quest for efficiency and deliciousness, easy and quick recipes have become my best friends. I’ve also prioritized dishes that freeze exceptionally well. The ability to cook once and enjoy multiple meals later—whether for a second dinner or convenient lunches throughout the week—is invaluable. When I think of ultimate freezer-friendly comfort food, burritos immediately spring to mind. And that’s how I rediscovered this gem: an old printout from 2002 for Chili Potato Burritos. The concept of spiced mashed potatoes wrapped in a tortilla was intriguing, to say the least.

Mashed potatoes in a burrito? It might sound unconventional, but as a devoted carb-lover, I was instantly eager to try it. And let me tell you, these burritos did not disappoint! I’ve since adapted the original recipe slightly to optimize it for freezing, and they truly perform perfectly straight from the freezer. Forget those store-bought frozen burritos that often lack flavor and substance; these homemade versions are a league apart. I’m already planning to make them again, perhaps experimenting with a mix of regular and sweet potatoes next time for an added layer of flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless!

Why You’ll Love These Chili Potato Burritos

• Uniquely Delicious: A surprisingly delightful combination of creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant chili spices, encased in a warm tortilla.
• Perfectly Meatless: A fantastic vegetarian option that’s so hearty and satisfying, even meat-eaters won’t miss the meat.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients, making it an economical choice for feeding your family.
• Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for meal prepping! Make a big batch, freeze the leftovers, and enjoy convenient meals whenever you need them.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the spices, cheese, and even add extra vegetables to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, savory, and incredibly comforting, perfect for a cozy night in.

Essential Ingredients for Chili Potato Burritos

Creating these delightful burritos requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for selection:

• Potatoes: The star of the show! For the best mashed potatoes, opt for starchy varieties like Russet potatoes or a creamier option like Yukon Gold. These varieties break down beautifully, resulting in a smooth, fluffy texture ideal for burrito filling. You can even save time by using leftover mashed potatoes if you have them on hand!
• Milk and Butter: These are crucial for achieving that rich, creamy mashed potato consistency. Adjust the amounts to your preference; some like their mashed potatoes thicker, while others prefer them smoother. Use whole milk for extra richness, or a plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
• Cheese: I recommend Colby-jack cheese for its excellent melting properties and mild, creamy flavor. However, feel free to use your favorite easy-melting cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican blend. The cheese adds a wonderful gooey texture and boosts the savory profile.
• Spices: The chili powder and cumin are key to the “chili” in these burritos. Chili powder brings a warm, earthy flavor with a mild kick, while cumin adds a distinctive smoky depth. Don’t forget salt and black pepper to taste – these elevate all the other flavors.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic foundation for the filling. If you don’t have fresh garlic, a good quality garlic powder (about ½ teaspoon) can be used as a substitute.
• Tortillas: This recipe typically calls for 6-inch flour tortillas, which yield about 8 medium-sized burritos. If you prefer larger, more substantial burritos, you can use burrito-sized (10-12 inch) tortillas, which will result in fewer but bigger servings.
• Enchilada Sauce: A good quality red enchilada sauce is essential for smothering the burritos. Canned red enchilada sauce is a convenient option, but feel free to use your favorite homemade version for an extra layer of flavor. You could even experiment with green enchilada sauce for a different twist!

How to Make Chili Potato Burritos: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these burritos is a straightforward process, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep session. Follow these simple steps for delicious results:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and chopping your chosen potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot.
2. Mash and Season: Mash the cooked potatoes to your desired consistency. Gradually add butter and milk, mixing until creamy and smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to get the mashed potatoes just right!
3. Create the Flavorful Filling: Into the mashed potatoes, stir in about ¾ cup of the shredded cheese, along with the chili powder, ground cumin, and minced garlic. Next, incorporate about ½ cup of the red enchilada sauce. Mix everything thoroughly. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, or even a pinch more chili powder) if needed.
4. Assemble the Burritos: Lay out your flour tortillas. Divide the potato mixture evenly among them, placing a generous spoonful down the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from one end to the other to form a compact burrito.
5. Arrange and Sauce: Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the tops of the burritos, ensuring they are well-covered.
6. Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the sauce-covered burritos. Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, typically around 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying Chili Potato Burritos!

Tips for Perfect Chili Potato Burritos Every Time

• Warm Your Tortillas: Warming your tortillas before filling makes them more pliable and less likely to tear, making rolling much easier. You can microwave them briefly, wrap them in foil and heat in the oven, or quickly warm them on a dry skillet.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up on filling, overfilling can make rolling difficult and lead to burst burritos. Aim for a generous but manageable amount that allows you to seal the burrito securely.
• Season Generously: Mashed potatoes can be a blank canvas, so don’t be shy with your spices, salt, and pepper. Taste the filling before rolling and adjust as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Creamy Potatoes are Key: Ensure your mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy. Lumpy potatoes can make for a less enjoyable texture inside the burrito.
• Cover for Baking: If you find your enchilada sauce or cheese browning too quickly during baking, you can cover the baking dish loosely with foil for the first part of the cooking time, then uncover for the last few minutes to get that golden, bubbly top.

Creative Variations & Serving Suggestions

These Chili Potato Burritos are fantastic as is, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative and customize them to your liking:

• Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and texture by folding in sautéed onions, bell peppers, corn, or black beans into the potato mixture. Roasting some diced sweet potatoes and mixing them in would also add a lovely sweetness and color, as I’m considering for next time!
• Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or finely diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) to the potato filling.
• Protein Power: For those who want a protein boost, consider adding plant-based ground crumbles, cooked lentils, or even scrambled eggs (for a hearty breakfast burrito version!).
• Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese! A smoky provolone, sharp cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack can add unique flavors.
• Sauce Swaps: While red enchilada sauce is traditional, a green chile sauce or even a spicy salsa verde could offer a delightful alternative.
• Serving Suggestions: These burritos are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with a side of fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a scoop of guacamole, or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. A simple side salad or some Mexican rice would also complete the meal perfectly.

Freezing and Reheating for Convenient Meals

One of the best features of these Chili Potato Burritos is how well they freeze, making them perfect for batch cooking and quick meals. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cool Completely: After baking, allow the burritos to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents ice crystals from forming during freezing.
2. Individual Wrapping: For best results, individually wrap each cooled burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. This protects them from freezer burn and makes it easy to grab just one at a time.
3. Freeze: Place the wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
4. Reheating from Frozen:
   • Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the foil and plastic wrap (if not oven-safe). Place the frozen burritos on a baking sheet and bake for 30-45 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly. Covering with foil for the first part of baking can help prevent drying out.
   • Microwave: Remove all wrapping. Place a frozen burrito on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 2-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until thoroughly heated. Be careful, as the filling can get very hot.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chili Potato Burritos

• Can I make these vegan? Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk and butter alternative for the mashed potatoes, and choose a dairy-free shredded cheese. Ensure your enchilada sauce is vegan-friendly (most are, but check the label).
• Are they spicy? The recipe uses chili powder and cumin, which provide a warm, mild spice. If you prefer more heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture.
• Can I use leftover mashed potatoes? Yes, absolutely! This is a fantastic way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a completely new and exciting meal. Just ensure they are well-seasoned.
• How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy? While these are baked in sauce, ensure your potato filling isn’t overly wet. When freezing, wrapping them tightly helps prevent moisture buildup.

More Delicious Burrito Recipes

If you loved these Chili Potato Burritos, you might want to explore other exciting burrito variations:

• Frito Pie Burrito
• Bean, Sausage, and Beef Burrito Recipe
• Smothered Burritos with Green Chile Sauce

Stay Connected for More Free Recipes!

LOOKING FOR MORE FREE RECIPES?
Subscribe to my free recipe newsletter to get new family-friendly recipes delivered straight to your inbox each week! Find me sharing more culinary inspiration and family-friendly ideas on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram.