Crockpot Beef Chile Colorado Burritos Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s easy to make and oh-so-satisfying, these Crockpot Beef Chile Colorado Burritos are just what you need. As a mom, I love meals that are not only comforting but also simple to prepare, and this one hits the mark! Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef soaked in a rich, savory chile sauce, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Whether you’re a busy mom looking for a meal you can set and forget, or someone craving a bold, authentic flavor, this recipe has it all. With just a little prep work and the magic of a slow cooker, you’ll have a delicious Mexican-inspired meal that tastes like it came from your favorite restaurant.

Let’s get started with the recipe, tips, and everything you need to make these burritos a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, which makes this recipe perfect for busy days when you still want to serve something delicious.

Big, Bold Flavors: The Chile Colorado sauce soaks into the beef, creating deep, smoky, and savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Versatile Meal: These burritos are so easy to customize. Add your favorite toppings or pair them with a variety of sides to please everyone at the table.

Feeds a Crowd: Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a hungry family, or hosting dinner guests, this recipe is perfect for serving a big group.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Crockpot Beef Chile Colorado Burritos, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients:

• Beef: Use chuck roast or another well-marbled cut for tender results.
• Chile Colorado Sauce: Typically made with dried chiles (like guajillo or ancho), garlic, and spices.
• Flour Tortillas: Large burrito-sized tortillas work best.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Rice and Beans (Optional): For a filling, complete burrito.
• Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and fresh cilantro.

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here’s the essential equipment you’ll need to make this recipe a success:

• Slow Cooker (Crockpot): The star of this recipe!
• Blender or Food Processor: To make the chile sauce smooth.
• Sharp Knife: For trimming and cutting the beef.
• Cutting Board: For prepping your ingredients.
• Skillet: To warm tortillas and melt cheese if desired.
• Serving Utensils: For assembling and serving the burritos.

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef and cutting it into large chunks. This ensures the beef cooks evenly and becomes tender in the crockpot.

2. Make the Chile Colorado Sauce

To make the rich and flavorful chile sauce:

• Remove stems and seeds from dried chiles.
• Boil the chiles in water until they soften (about 10-15 minutes).
• Blend the softened chiles with garlic, onion, a pinch of cumin, and some of the cooking water until smooth.
• Strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids, ensuring a silky texture.

3. Combine and Cook

Place the beef chunks in the crockpot and pour the chile Colorado sauce over the top. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.\

4. Shred the Beef

Once the beef is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. Mix the shredded beef with the chile sauce to fully coat it in flavor.

5. Assemble the Burritos

To assemble the burritos:

• Warm the flour tortillas in a skillet or microwave for easier folding.
• Spoon a generous amount of the chile Colorado beef onto each tortilla.
• Add shredded cheese, rice, and beans if desired.
• Fold the sides in and roll tightly to form a burrito.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the burritos as-is, or for extra indulgence, smother them with additional chile Colorado sauce and a sprinkle of cheese. Heat in the oven until bubbly and melted.

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Recipe Tips and Variations

• Short on Time? Use store-bought enchilada sauce instead of making homemade chile Colorado sauce. While homemade is unbeatable, this shortcut is perfect for busy days.
• Protein Swaps: Substitute the beef with chicken thighs or pork shoulder for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the tortillas and serve the beef over cauliflower rice or a salad.
• Make it Spicy: Add a few dried arbol chiles or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle shredded cheese on the burritos and broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy, melted topping.

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Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Store the shredded beef in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the beef (without tortillas) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the beef in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

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Food and Drink Pairings

These burritos are rich and flavorful, so pair them with sides and drinks that complement the dish:

• Sides: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh avocado salad.
• Drinks: A refreshing horchata, ice-cold beer, or a classic margarita pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the chile Colorado beef.
• Dessert: Finish your meal with a light and sweet treat like churros or tres leches cake.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! To make this in an Instant Pot, cook the beef on high pressure for 45 minutes, then allow a natural release. The beef will shred beautifully and still soak up all the flavors of the sauce.

2. What type of beef works best for this recipe?

Chuck roast is ideal for slow-cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks. Brisket or beef stew meat are also great options.

3. Can I make the chile Colorado sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before using.

4. How can I prevent the tortillas from tearing?

Warm the tortillas before assembling the burritos. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.

5. Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on the type of chiles you use. Guajillo and ancho chiles are mild, but you can add spicier chiles if you prefer more heat.

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Final Thoughts

These Crockpot Beef Chile Colorado Burritos are a must-try for anyone who loves bold, authentic flavors and the ease of slow-cooked meals. With tender, saucy beef wrapped in a warm tortilla and all your favorite toppings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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