Crescent Beef Burritos
Crescent Beef Burritos are the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that brings together a delightful combination of flavors and textures, wrapped in a flaky crescent roll. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for those busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine the warmth of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheese, all encased in a golden, crispy shell. Whether you’re serving up a family meal or entertaining friends, these burritos are sure to impress.
Why It Deserves a Spot
Crescent Beef Burritos deserve a spot in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile; you can customize the fillings to suit your preferences. Second, they are quick and straightforward to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners. Lastly, they are a fun twist on traditional burritos, combining the beloved flavors of Mexican cuisine with the buttery goodness of crescent rolls.
What’s in the Bowl
To create these delicious Crescent Beef Burritos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef – The star of the dish, providing a savory base.
- 1 (1.25-ounce) packet taco seasoning – Adds a burst of flavor to the beef.
- 1/2 cup water – Helps to hydrate the seasoning and cook the beef.
- 1 cup refried beans – Adds creaminess and richness.
- 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough – The flaky outer layer.
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend – Melts beautifully inside the burrito.
- 1 cup salsa – For serving on the side or drizzling on top.
- Cilantro, olives, pickled jalapenos, sour cream – Optional toppings to enhance the flavor.
Gear Checklist
Before you dive into making these Crescent Beef Burritos, gather the necessary tools:
- Large skillet – For browning the ground beef.
- Spatula – To stir and mix the beef with seasonings.
- Baking sheet – To hold the burritos while they bake.
- Parchment paper – Optional, for easy cleanup.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To accurately measure ingredients.
- Oven mitts – For safely handling hot pans and trays.
Crescent Beef Burritos, Made Easy
Follow these simple steps to whip up your delicious Crescent Beef Burritos:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Seasoning
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Pour in the water and stir well. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
While the beef mixture cools slightly, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface and separate it into triangles.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
Spread a layer of refried beans over each triangle of dough. Spoon some of the seasoned beef mixture onto the beans, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Step 5: Roll It Up
Starting from the wide end of the triangle, roll the dough tightly around the filling to form a burrito shape. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the burritos in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the burritos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with salsa, and top with cilantro, olives, pickled jalapenos, or a dollop of sour cream as desired.
Tailor It to Your Diet
One of the best aspects of Crescent Beef Burritos is their adaptability. Here are some ways to tailor the recipe to fit different dietary needs:
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough or make your own gluten-free dough.
- Low-Carb: Use lettuce wraps instead of crescent dough for a lighter version.
- Dairy-Free: Opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese altogether.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
Every cooking adventure has its hiccups. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid or fix them:
- Overcooked Beef: If the beef becomes dry, add a splash of water or broth to rehydrate it.
- Dough Not Rolling Properly: If the crescent dough tears, simply pinch it back together or use a bit of flour to help it roll more smoothly.
- Cheese Overflow: To prevent cheese from leaking out during baking, ensure you do not overfill the burritos.
- Burnt Edges: If the edges of the burritos brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Crescent Beef Burritos make fantastic leftovers! Here are some tips for storing and reheating:
Store any leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to prep ahead of time, assemble the burritos and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Ask & Learn
Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the burritos and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking for a quick meal later.
Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded pork can work beautifully as alternatives. Just adjust the seasoning to match the meat you’re using.
What can I serve with Crescent Beef Burritos?
These burritos pair wonderfully with a side salad, Mexican rice, or tortilla chips and guacamole. You can also serve them with extra salsa for dipping!
How do I make the burritos spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños into the beef mixture or top the burritos with spicy salsa or hot sauce. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love the concept of one-pan meals, here are some other delicious recipes to try:
- One-Pan Chicken Fajitas – A colorful and flavorful dish that’s easy to whip up.
- Vegan Taco Bowl – A nutritious and customizable option that’s perfect for meal prep.
- One-Pan Pasta – A quick and hearty meal that requires minimal cleanup.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry – A vibrant and healthy dish that bursts with flavor.
Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed these Crescent Beef Burritos, stay tuned for more delicious recipes that will satisfy your cravings. From sweet treats to savory dinners, there’s always something new to discover. Don’t forget to share your own creations and variations of this recipe; we love seeing how you make it your own!
Crescent Beef Burritos are not just a meal; they are an experience filled with flavor, fun, and satisfaction. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, these burritos are sure to please. Embrace the joy of cooking with this simple yet delicious recipe, and enjoy every bite!
Crescent Beef Burritos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Pour in the water and stir well. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- While the beef mixture cools slightly, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface and separate it into triangles.
- Spread a layer of refried beans over each triangle of dough. Spoon some of the seasoned beef mixture onto the beans, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Starting from the wide end of the triangle, roll the dough tightly around the filling to form a burrito shape. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the burritos in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
- Once baked, remove the burritos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with salsa, and top with cilantro, olives, pickled jalapenos, or a dollop of sour cream as desired.
Notes
- Customize the filling by adding vegetables or using a different meat.
- For a lower-carb option, try using lettuce wraps.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
