Beef Burrito Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal that combines flavor, texture, and a bit of spice, look no further than this Beef Burrito Recipe. These burritos are loaded with seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast with friends, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
This Beef Burrito Recipe strikes the perfect balance between convenience and flavor. The ground beef is seasoned with taco seasoning for a quick and easy flavor boost, while the enchilada sauce adds a delicious layer of richness. The combination of black beans and refried beans provides a satisfying creaminess that complements the beef perfectly. Plus, the addition of cilantro-lime rice brings a fresh zing that rounds out the entire dish.
What to Buy
- Cooking Spray: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps sauté the onions.
- Yellow Onion: Finely diced for sweetness and depth.
- Lean Ground Beef: 93/7 is ideal for a juicy, yet healthy filling.
- Taco Seasoning: A quick way to flavor the beef without a lot of fuss.
- Red Enchilada Sauce: Provides a delicious base for the filling.
- Black Beans: Optional, but they add extra protein and fiber.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: A zesty complement to the burrito (or white rice).
- Flour Tortillas: Large ones are perfect for wrapping up all the fillings.
- Refried Beans: For a creamy addition to the burrito.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded for the best melt and flavor.
- Toppings: Think sour cream, avocado, guacamole, pico de gallo, and salsa.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Large Skillet: For cooking the beef and onions.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For ensuring perfect proportions.
- Serving Plates: To present your delicious burritos.
- Aluminum Foil: Optional, for wrapping burritos if you’re meal prepping.
Beef Burrito Recipe: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Finely dice the yellow onion and set it aside. If you’re using black beans, drain and rinse them under cold water.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
In a large skillet, spray a light coat of cooking spray and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Season the Beef
Once the beef is browned, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat. Stir to combine, then pour in the ¾ cup of mild red enchilada sauce. If you’re adding black beans, stir them in at this point. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Prepare the Rice
While the beef mixture simmers, prepare your cilantro-lime rice according to your preferred recipe or package instructions. This will add a fresh element to your burritos.
Step 6: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out the large flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spread a layer of refried beans in the center of each tortilla, followed by a generous scoop of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Roll the Burritos
To roll your burritos, fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll from the bottom up to create a snug package.
Step 8: Serve or Store
You can serve the burritos immediately or, if you’re meal prepping, wrap them in aluminum foil and store them in the fridge or freezer for later. Top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, avocado, or salsa when you’re ready to enjoy!
What to Use Instead
- Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, swap ground beef for ground turkey.
- Vegetarian Protein: Use lentils or a meat substitute for a plant-based version.
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: For a healthier alternative to regular flour tortillas.
- Spicy Enchilada Sauce: If you prefer more heat, opt for a spicy version.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
When making your Beef Burrito Recipe, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best results:
- Don’t overfill your tortillas; a little goes a long way, and it’s easier to roll them up without bursting.
- Make sure the beef is thoroughly cooked before adding the enchilada sauce to avoid any food safety issues.
- Warm your tortillas slightly before assembling to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
- Let the beef mixture cool slightly before assembling to prevent soggy tortillas.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To store, place any leftover burritos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. To reheat, unwrap the burrito and place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy exterior, reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed throughout.
Common Qs About Beef Burrito Recipe
Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Absolutely! These burritos are perfect for meal prepping. Just assemble them, wrap them tightly, and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I customize the fillings?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed peppers, corn, or different types of cheese. The possibilities are endless!
What toppings go well with burritos?
Common toppings include sour cream, diced avocado, guacamole, pico de gallo, and various salsas. You can also add fresh herbs like cilantro or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Can I make these burritos spicy?
Definitely! Use spicy taco seasoning, add diced jalapeños to the filling, or top with a spicy salsa to kick the heat up a notch.
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In Closing
This Beef Burrito Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor, warmth, and a sense of home. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet dinner alone, these burritos are sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a delicious homemade feast that’s both comforting and delicious. Enjoy!
Beef Burrito Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients. Finely dice the yellow onion and set it aside. If using black beans, drain and rinse them under cold water.
- In a large skillet, spray a light coat of cooking spray and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Break apart and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes, draining excess fat if necessary.
- Once browned, sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat. Stir to combine and pour in the enchilada sauce. If adding black beans, stir them in now. Let simmer until heated through.
- Prepare your cilantro-lime rice according to your preferred recipe or package instructions.
- Lay out the large flour tortillas. Spread a layer of refried beans, then a generous scoop of the beef mixture, and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- To roll, fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling and roll from the bottom up to create a snug package.
- Serve immediately or wrap in aluminum foil for meal prepping. Top with garnishes like sour cream or avocado as desired.
Notes
- Don’t overfill tortillas to make rolling easier.
- Ensure beef is fully cooked before adding sauce for safety.
- Warm tortillas slightly for easier rolling.
- Let beef mixture cool before assembling to avoid soggy tortillas.
