Burrito Colorado Recipe: How to Make Authentic Red Chili Burrito at Home

Introduction: What is a Burrito Colorado?

Burrito Colorado is a traditional Mexican dish featuring a rich red chili sauce (chile Colorado) made from dried red chilies, giving it a vibrant color and deep, smoky flavor. It's commonly served with meat, beans, rice, and tortillas, and is known for its balanced heat and complex taste. The name "Colorado" comes from the Spanish word for "red" (colorado), referring to the sauce's distinctive hue, not the U.S. state of Colorado.

A Brief History of Burrito Colorado

The burrito Colorado originates from Northern Mexico, particularly in the state of Chihuahua, where it evolved as a regional variation of traditional burritos. The name "Colorado" refers to the Spanish word for "red," describing the vibrant color of the chile sauce that defines the dish. Unlike common misconceptions, it has no connection to the U.S. state of Colorado. The dish gained popularity through Mexican-American cuisine, where it was adapted using locally available ingredients while preserving its core flavor profile.

The Spice Breakdown: What Makes It Special?

The secret behind the burrito Colorado isn't just in the meat or beans — it's in the sauce. Let's break down the main players in this flavor-packed dish:

• Ancho Chili: Mild and fruity, adds depth and subtle sweetness.
• Guajillo Chili: Medium heat with berry-like undertones; balances the richness.
• Pasilla Chili: Earthy and mildly spicy, enhances the overall complexity.
• Garlic & Onion: For savory depth and aromatic foundation.
• Cumin: Adds warmth and Middle Eastern flair, often used in Mexican mole-style blends.
• Tomato Paste: Thickens the sauce and brings acidity to balance the chilies.

Chili Type	Heat Level (SHU)	Flavor Notes	Best For
Ancho	1,000–2,000	Sweet, raisin-like, mild	Deep flavor base, sauces
Guajillo	2,500–5,000	Tangy, berry-like, medium heat	Salsas, marinades, stews
Pasilla	2,500–4,000	Earthy, dark fruit, smoky	Mole sauces, soups, braises

This blend creates a uniquely balanced sauce — not too spicy, but deeply flavorful. If you love smoky, earthy, slightly sweet heat, the burrito Colorado is definitely your new go-to.

DIY Burrito Colorado: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ready to make your own burrito Colorado at home? Here's a simple yet authentic version to try:

Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cooked beef (or chicken, or tofu for vegans)
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup chile Colorado sauce (see below)
• Optional toppings: cheese, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime

For the Chile Colorado Sauce:

• 2 ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
• 2 guajillo chilies, stemmed and seeded
• 1 pasilla chili, stemmed and seeded
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 cups water or broth
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak dried chilies in hot water for 20 minutes until softened.
2. Blend soaked chilies with onion, garlic, tomato paste, cumin, and 1 cup liquid until smooth.
3. Transfer mixture to a saucepan and simmer for 15–20 minutes. Add more liquid if too thick.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or spices.
5. In a separate pan, combine shredded meat with some of the sauce and warm through.
6. Assemble each burrito by spreading refried beans, adding rice, meat, and drizzling with chile Colorado sauce.
7. Add optional toppings, then roll up tightly and serve warm.

This recipe is totally customizable — swap out the protein, add veggies, or even fry your burritos for that crispy taquito effect!

Serving Tips & Toppings That Take It Over the Top

The beauty of the burrito Colorado is that it plays well with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Guacamole Drizzle: Adds creamy texture and freshness.
• Crema Mexicana: Similar to sour cream but richer and tangy.
• Queso Fresco: Lightly salty crumbled cheese that contrasts the sauce nicely.
• Lime Wedges: Brightens up the whole dish.
• Fried Plantains: Sweet and crunchy contrast to the burrito's richness.
• Esquites: Mexican street corn salad, served on the side.

If you're feeling fancy, wrap the burrito in foil and bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes — it becomes like a deconstructed enchilada! Serve with warm tortilla chips for scooping up extra sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Burrito Colorado

What is the difference between a regular burrito and a Burrito Colorado?

The key difference is the chile Colorado sauce. While regular burritos might use simple salsas or no sauce at all, Burrito Colorado features a rich, thick red sauce made from dried red chilies (typically ancho, guajillo, and pasilla) that gives it its distinctive deep red color and complex flavor profile. This sauce permeates the entire burrito, creating a more unified flavor experience compared to standard burritos.

How spicy is a Burrito Colorado?

Burrito Colorado is moderately spicy but more focused on deep, complex flavors than intense heat. The heat level typically ranges from mild to medium, depending on the specific chilies used and their proportions. Ancho chilies provide mild sweetness (1,000-2,000 SHU), while guajillo and pasilla add moderate heat (2,500-5,000 SHU). The sauce is designed to be flavorful rather than overwhelmingly hot, making it accessible to most palates.

Can I make Burrito Colorado without meat?

Absolutely! Burrito Colorado can be made vegetarian or vegan by substituting the meat with ingredients like black beans, pinto beans, roasted vegetables, or plant-based proteins such as tofu, tempeh, or vegan chorizo. The chile Colorado sauce is naturally vegetarian (check broth ingredients if using), so the dish easily adapts to different dietary preferences while maintaining its signature flavor.

What's the best way to reheat a Burrito Colorado?

For best results, wrap the burrito in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, which preserves the texture better. If you prefer a crispy exterior, use a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, turning occasionally until golden brown. Avoid reheating at too high a temperature, which can cause the tortilla to become tough or the filling to dry out.

Where does the name "Colorado" come from?

Despite the name suggesting a connection to the U.S. state of Colorado, the term "Colorado" in this context actually comes from the Spanish word for "red" or "reddened" (colorado). It refers to the vibrant red color of the chile sauce that defines this dish. The burrito originated in Northern Mexico and the name describes the dish's appearance rather than its geographical origin.

Can I freeze the chile Colorado sauce?

Yes, chile Colorado sauce freezes exceptionally well. Store it in an airtight container or ice cube trays (for portioning) for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to reach the desired consistency. Freezing actually allows the flavors to meld further, often improving the taste when reheated.

What's the most authentic way to make Burrito Colorado?

Authentic Burrito Colorado starts with dried chilies (ancho, guajillo, and pasilla) that are toasted and soaked before blending into the sauce. Traditional versions use beef as the primary protein, cooked slowly with the sauce. The tortillas should be warm flour tortillas large enough to hold all the fillings. Authentic preparation avoids shortcuts like pre-made sauces (though good quality ones can work in a pinch) and focuses on building layers of flavor through proper chili preparation and slow simmering of the sauce.

How can I make my Burrito Colorado less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness: 1) Remove all seeds and white membranes from the chilies before using, as these contain most of the capsaicin; 2) Increase the proportion of mild ancho chilies relative to guajillo or pasilla; 3) Add more tomato paste or broth to dilute the heat; 4) Include dairy toppings like crema or cheese when serving, which help counteract spiciness; 5) Add a touch of honey or sugar to balance the heat with sweetness. Remember that the heat will mellow slightly as the sauce simmers longer.

What's the traditional meat used in Burrito Colorado?

Traditionally, beef is the most common protein used in Burrito Colorado, particularly shredded or diced cuts that become tender when slow-cooked in the chile sauce. Beef chuck, brisket, or skirt steak work well. In Northern Mexico where the dish originated, beef was readily available from cattle ranching. While chicken and pork variations exist, beef remains the classic choice that best complements the earthy, rich flavors of the chile Colorado sauce.

How long does homemade chile Colorado sauce last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, homemade chile Colorado sauce will last 5-7 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to cool the sauce completely before storing and always use clean utensils when handling it to prevent contamination. For longer storage, freezing is recommended (up to 3 months). When refrigerated, check for any signs of spoilage before using, such as mold, off smells, or unusual texture changes.

Buying Guide: Best Ingredients for Your Burrito Colorado

If you're planning to make or enjoy a burrito Colorado, here's a breakdown of the top products and ingredients to look for — whether you're cooking at home or ordering out.

Top Chile Blends & Sauces

• La Costeña Chile Colorado Sauce
  Pre-made sauce with perfect balance. Great for beginners.
• Goya Dried Ancho Chilies
  Consistent quality and easy to find in supermarkets.
• El Mexicano Guajillo Chili Pack
  Ideal for DIY sauce lovers who want to control the heat level.

Best Tortillas

• La Banderita Flour Tortillas
  Thick, soft, and hold up well to heavy fillings.
• Rudi's Gluten-Free Tortillas
  Perfect for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.

Fillings & Proteins

• Mexican Style Refried Beans (Rosarita)
  Creamy, seasoned, and ready to spread.
• Trader Joe's Seasoned Ground Beef
  Convenient and pre-seasoned for quick assembly.
• Field Roast Vegan Chorizo Crumbles
  Plant-based option that still delivers punchy flavor.

For best results, always choose high-quality tortillas and fresh meats or beans. Store-bought sauces can work in a pinch, but nothing beats a homemade batch simmered with love.

Final Thoughts: Why You'll Keep Coming Back to This Flavor Bomb

The burrito Colorado is more than just another taco variation — it's a celebration of spice, culture, and comfort. Its rich, red sauce brings together earthy, sweet, and spicy notes in one satisfying package that's easy to customize and hard to forget.

Whether you're making it yourself or finding it on a menu, don't skip this spicy gem. Once you taste that velvety chile Colorado sauce wrapping around tender meat and fluffy rice, you'll understand why it's fast becoming a favorite across kitchens and restaurants alike.