Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty burrito. The Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe is a delightful blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and sharp cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these burritos are sure to impress. Plus, they’re versatile enough to accommodate your favorite toppings and sauces, making each burrito a unique masterpiece. Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why It Deserves a Spot
This Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe is not just another dinner option; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The savory ground beef is perfectly complemented by the creaminess of the beans and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. Topped with fresh ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, and guacamole, each bite offers a delightful crunch and freshness. Additionally, this recipe is easy to customize—whether you prefer it spicy with hot sauce or mild with sour cream, it can cater to any palate. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.
Gather These Ingredients
- 6 burrito-size flour tortillas (we prefer raw tortillas for that fresh taste)
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, more or less to taste
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (16 oz.) can refried beans
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa (medium for more of a kick)
- Hot sauce to taste
- Additional toppings: sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, guacamole, and rice
What’s in the Gear List
- Large skillet – for cooking the beef and mixing the filling
- Spatula – for stirring and breaking up the beef
- Mixing bowl – to combine ingredients if desired
- Serving platter – for presenting the burritos
- Aluminum foil (optional) – for wrapping burritos for storage or transport
Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe: How It’s Done
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Beef
Once the beef is fully cooked, sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Stir well to incorporate the spices into the meat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Add the Refried Beans
Stir in the can of refried beans and mix until everything is well combined. Allow the mixture to heat through, about 3-4 minutes. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it up.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the beef and bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and salsa. If you like it spicy, drizzle some hot sauce over the top.
Step 5: Roll the Burritos
To roll the burritos, fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll from the bottom up tightly. Make sure to tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling secure. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 6: Serve or Store
You can serve the burritos immediately with additional toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and guacamole, or wrap them in aluminum foil for later. If you’re meal prepping, these burritos are perfect for freezing as well!
Make It Diet-Friendly
- For a vegetarian option, replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Use low-fat cheese or omit it entirely for a lighter version.
- Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost and tangy flavor.
- Choose whole wheat tortillas for added fiber and nutrients.
- Load up on fresh veggies as toppings for extra crunch and health benefits.
Learn from These Mistakes
When making the Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overfilling the tortillas can lead to messy burritos. Start with a modest amount and adjust as needed.
- Not seasoning the beef adequately can result in bland flavors. Don’t be shy with the spices!
- Skipping the sautéing step for onions and garlic can lead to a lack of depth in flavor.
- Using cold tortillas can make rolling difficult. Warm them slightly in a skillet to make them pliable.
Storing Tips & Timelines
These burritos can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later. Here are some tips on how to store them:
- Refrigerate burritos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For freezing, wrap each burrito tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, unwrap the burrito and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also bake them at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Reader Q&A
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe. Just ensure you season it well to enhance the flavor.
What toppings do you recommend for these burritos?
We love to top our burritos with fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, guacamole, and a drizzle of sour cream. You can also add jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and bean filling a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and assemble the burritos when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make these burritos spicier?
To amp up the heat, add more chili powder or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also use spicy salsa and drizzle additional hot sauce on top before serving.
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The Last Word
This Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe is a fantastic way to bring the family together around the dinner table. It’s comforting, delicious, and customizable to suit everyone’s tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a festive gathering, these burritos are sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
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Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is fully cooked, sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Stir well to incorporate the spices into the meat, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in the can of refried beans and mix until well combined. Allow the mixture to heat through, about 3-4 minutes. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it up.
- Lay out the tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the beef and bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and salsa.
- To roll the burritos, fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll from the bottom up tightly. Make sure to tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling secure.
- Serve immediately with additional toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and guacamole, or wrap in aluminum foil for later. These burritos are also perfect for freezing!
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Use low-fat cheese or omit it for a lighter version.
- Wrap burritos tightly for storage or transport.
