Low-Carb Wet Burritos: A Keto-Friendly Recipe
Introduction
Discover a savory, low-carb twist on a classic favorite with our Low-Carb Wet Burritos recipe. Perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle, these burritos are rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and exceptionally satisfying. We’ve crafted this recipe to be low in carbs and sugar-free while ensuring that you don’t miss out on the delicious, hearty taste of a traditional burrito. This guide provides detailed instructions, nutritional information, and tips to make these wet burritos a staple in your keto meal plan.
Ingredients
For the Burritos:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef – A flavorful and high-protein base for the burrito filling.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory profile of the filling.
- 1 cup (240 ml) diced tomatoes – Provides a juicy, tangy element to the filling.
- 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium beef broth – Keeps the filling moist and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) chili powder – Adds heat and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) cumin – Provides an earthy, warm flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) smoked paprika – Adds a smoky undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) salt – Enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) black pepper – Adds a mild heat and flavor.
- 1 cup (90 g) shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the burrito filling for added richness.
- Low-carb tortillas (6 tortillas, 8-inch size) – These are essential for wrapping your burrito and should be low in carbs.
For the Wet Burrito Sauce:
- 1 cup (240 ml) low-carb salsa – A flavorful base with minimal carbs.
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) taco seasoning (sugar-free) – Enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) garlic powder – Adds a hint of garlic without the texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 g) onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Onions and Garlic:
- Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir in 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Add Beef Broth:
- Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until the liquid reduces slightly and the flavors meld together, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Prepare the Tortillas:
- If you’re using pre-made low-carb tortillas, ensure they are pliable. Warm them slightly in the microwave or oven to make them easier to roll and fold.
- Assemble the Burritos:
- Place 1/6 of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle 1/6 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, folding the ends in to create a sealed burrito.
- Prepare the Wet Burrito Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of low-carb salsa, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder. Whisk until well blended.
- Pour Sauce Over Burritos:
- Place the assembled burritos in a baking dish. Pour the prepared wet burrito sauce evenly over the top of the burritos.
- Bake the Burritos:
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the burritos cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes serving easier.
- Garnish (Optional):
- For added flavor, you can garnish the wet burritos with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. Ensure any additional garnishes fit within your dietary goals.
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store any leftover wet burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the burritos in the microwave or oven until heated through. If using the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out.
- Nutritional Information:
- Each serving of the wet burritos provides a balanced mix of protein and healthy fats with a low carb count, aligning with keto dietary requirements. The exact nutritional information may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.
- Dietary Considerations:
- This recipe is ideal for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It is also gluten-free if you use gluten-free tortillas and salsa.
- Flavor Variations:
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. For added heat, you can incorporate diced jalapeños into the beef mixture.
- Health Benefits:
- This dish provides a hearty dose of protein from the beef and cheese while keeping carbs low, making it suitable for weight management and ketogenic diets. The use of low-carb salsa and heavy cream ensures that the dish remains rich and satisfying.
- SmartPoints Calculation:
- The SmartPoints value for this recipe has been carefully calculated to ensure it fits within a Weight Watchers plan. Each burrito, including the sauce, is approximately 6 SmartPoints, depending on the exact ingredients used.
- Customization Tips:
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder and taco seasoning. For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheese and cream with suitable dairy-free alternatives.
Nutritional Information and SmartPoints
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 Burrito with Sauce)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Net Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 23g
Weight Watchers SmartPoints Value:
- SmartPoints: 6 (per burrito with sauce, based on WW 2024 calculation)
Conclusion
Our Low-Carb Wet Burritos offer a delicious, keto-friendly meal that’s both filling and flavorful. With thoughtful ingredient choices and careful preparation, this recipe maintains a low carb count while providing a satisfying and savory experience. Whether you’re enjoying a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these wet burritos are a versatile and health-conscious option that supports your dietary goals. Enjoy this delightful dish knowing that you’re making a choice that’s both delicious and aligned with your wellness plan.