Burrito Skulls Recipe

This Halloween, add a frightfully fun twist to your dinner table with Burrito Skulls. These spooky-shaped burritos are not only a creative and eerie treat but also packed with delicious fillings that will delight both kids and adults. Perfect for Halloween parties or a fun family meal, these burrito skulls are sure to make your event memorable.

Ingredients

For the Tortillas:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup lard or shortening
• ¾ cup water

For the Burrito Filling:

• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 tablespoons black beans
• 6 tablespoons corn
• 6 tablespoons chopped tomatoes

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon water

Optional Sauces:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa

Directions

1. Make the Tortillas:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Add half of the lard, using a pastry cutter to incorporate it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Repeat with the remaining lard.
   • Gradually pour in water while stirring until the dough comes together.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface until it forms a cohesive ball. Cover and let it rest for 10-20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Burrito Filling:
   • Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a skillet over high heat and brown half of the ground beef. Remove from the skillet.
   • Add the remaining oil and brown the rest of the beef.
   • Return all the browned meat to the pan, stir in taco seasoning and water, and simmer until most of the water evaporates.
3. Assemble the Burrito Skulls:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll out each portion into thin ovals or rectangles.
   • Drape the dough over each cavity of a skull-shaped pan, pressing the dough into the skull shape.
   • Fill each skull with ⅙ of the taco meat, cheese, black beans, corn, and tomatoes.
   • Fold the dough over the fillings, pinch the seams together, and trim any excess dough.
   • Whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash and brush it over the top of the dough.
   • Repeat for all six skulls.
4. Bake:
   • Bake the burrito skulls in the oven for 24-26 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
   • Let them cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a cooling rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 24 minutes
• Total Time: 54 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
• Chicken Skulls: Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef for a different flavor.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, though they may not stay as crisp.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
2. What if I don’t have a skull-shaped pan?
   • You can use a regular muffin tin or shape the burritos by hand. Just ensure they are securely closed.
3. Can I freeze Burrito Skulls?
   • Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Reheat from frozen in the oven.
4. What if I don’t have lard or shortening?
   • You can substitute with butter or a vegetable oil blend, though it may affect the texture slightly.
5. Can I use store-bought tortillas?
   • You can use store-bought tortillas if you prefer, but the homemade dough adds a special touch.
6. How do I prevent the tortillas from sticking to the pan?
   • Lightly grease the skull-shaped pan or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
7. Can I add other fillings to the burritos?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients such as jalapeños, olives, or sautéed onions.
8. How can I make these burritos spicier?
   • Add chopped jalapeños to the filling or use spicy taco seasoning for an extra kick.
9. What sauces pair well with Burrito Skulls?
   • Sour cream, guacamole, and salsa are great options to complement the flavors.
10. How do I know when the burrito skulls are done?
    • The burrito skulls are done when the tops are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.

Conclusion

Burrito Skulls offer a delightful and spooky twist on traditional burritos, making them a perfect choice for Halloween or any fun gathering. With a combination of savory fillings and a creepy skull shape, these burritos are sure to impress and entertain. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking to add some excitement to dinner, Burrito Skulls are both delicious and entertaining. Enjoy the festive fun and delicious flavors!

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