Let’s talk Comfort Food. And not just any comfort food – the kind that warms you from the inside out, makes you want to curl up. Is it easy to whip up a good movie on the couch? I’m talking about the **Beef Burritos Recipe** that’s been a family favorite for as long as I can. Think of it as the Tex-Mex equivalent of a warm hug, only way tastier. If you’re a fan of good, hearty chili but sometimes crave something you can *hold*, these burritos are the perfect recipe. What’s your new go-to store? What are some good quick dinner ideas? Can you customize them to your liking – more spice, different veggies, extra cheese… the list goes on. What are the possibilities? I always add a little extra cumin to my food. It just makes everything better!
What is Beef Burrito?
What is beef burrito? It’s essentially a warm tortilla, usually flour, wrapped around savory filling, and in this case, tortillas. That filling stars perfectly seasoned GROUND BEEF. Think of it as a Tex-Mex parcel of deliciousness! What is the beauty of a burrito? What are some good toppings for beef? What is your heart desires: rice, beans, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole? Is it a handheld feast? What is the difference between a burrito and taco? What is the best filling for a tortilla? This **Beef Burritos Recipe** is my version of that classic, tweaked and perfect over years of experience. Family dinners and friendly get-togethers.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Alright, let me tell you why this particular **Beef Burritos Recipe** is a winner. First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. We’re talking perfectly seasoned beef with a hint of spice that dances on your tongue. The combination of cumin, chili powder, and a touch of smoked paprika creates a depth of flavor that’s seriously addictive. My kids ask for this all the time! Secondly, it’s unbelievably easy to make. Honestly, most of the work is just browning the beef and chopping some veggies. What I love most about this is that you can get it all done in about 30 minutes, start to finish – perfect for those hectic weeknights when you’re short on time. Plus, it’s super cost-effective. Ground Beef is a budget-friendly protein, and you can easily stretch the filling by adding extra rice and beans. It also happens to be incredibly versatile. Don’t have black beans on hand? Kidney beans work just as well. Want to add some extra veggies? Go for it! Bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini would be delicious. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s flavorful, easy, budget-friendly, and customizable, this is it. I swear it’s better than any burrito you’ll get at a fast food chain! This also remind me of taco tuesday, which is another super great night!
How do I make Beef Burritos?
Quick Overview
How do you make Beef Burritos? What are some good ways to brown Ground Beef with onions and your favorite spices? If you like, you’ll add in your beans, salsa, and any other veggies you want. Warm up your tortillas, load them up with the beef mixture and your desired toppings. Wrap them, top with cheese, and serve. What is the secret to a good burrito? What are some tips for folding tortillas? This method is special because it prioritizes flavor without sacrificing convenience. I promise, even a beginner cook can nail this!
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling: What is the best
- 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor) (as opposed to a whole grain)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder. 1 teaspoon cumin.
- 1 teaspoon cumin is a good
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. 1 teaspoon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can tomato sauce per 15 ounces.
- 1 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
- Salt and pepper to taste.
For the Burritos:
- 8 large flour tortillas.
- 2 cups cooked rice (I like Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend) or your preferred cheese mix.
- Optional toppings: guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce.
How do I get started
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown Ground Beef. When the beef is browned, break it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. I always use a paper towel to soak up the extra fat to keep it healthy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. What is the worst thing to do if you burn garlic?
Step 3: Add the Spices
Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This step is crucial for blooming the spices and releasing their full flavor. Don’t skip it!
Step 4: Simmer the Filling
Add the black beans, tomato sauce, and salsa to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sometimes, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will be!
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
While the beef filling is simmering, warm the tortillas. Is it safe to do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side? Is it safe to microwave a paper towel for 30 seconds? How do you warm a cotton sleeve?
Step 6: Assemble the Burritos
Lay a warm tortilla on flat surface. Spread a layer of cooked rice down the center of the tortilla. Top with beef filling and shredded cheese. Add any other desired toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes. What is the trick to a good burrito?
Step 7: Wrap the Burritos
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold up the bottom over the filling. How do you roll a burrito tightly? If you want to be super extra, you can sear it on each side on a dry skillet to make it nice and crispy.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the burritos immediately. You can serve them whole or in half. What are some good side dishes to serve with beef burritos? What is guacamole? Enjoy every bite!
What should I serve it with?
What are some good meat burrito recipes? What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?For a casual dinner: Serve with a simple side salad and some tortilla chips with guacamole. A cold Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita would also be a perfect addition. My husband likes a simple beer with it.
For a Fiesta:What’s a Mexican feast? Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, and all the fixings for a build-your-own burrito bar. I like to play festive music too to get everyone in the mood.What is a quick lunch?If you have a burrito in your lunchbox, put some fruit and salsa in it. What is a satisfying meal that will keep you going all afternoon?For a Crowd:What are the best burritos for a potluck? Make a big batch and keep them warm in the slow cooker. Set out a variety of toppings and let everyone customize their own. I always make a vegetarian batch too for people who don’t eat meat!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Burritos
Want to take your **Beef Burritos** to the next level? Here are some of my top tips for making them absolutely perfect:
Beef Quality Matters: While you don’t need to splurge on super expensive ground beef, choosing a good quality one will make a difference in the flavor and texture. I prefer using 80/20 ground beef because it has a good balance of flavor and leanness. The fat adds flavor but its not excessive.
Spice is Your Friend: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings. A little bit of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika goes a long way in adding depth and complexity to the flavor. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. I always have a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooked ground beef can be dry and tough. Cook it until it’s just browned, then drain off any excess grease. It will continue to cook in the sauce, so you don’t want to overdo it.
Warm Your Tortillas: This is a crucial step! Warming the tortillas makes them pliable and prevents them from tearing when you wrap them. You can warm them in a dry skillet, microwave them, or even steam them. The end result should be pliable tortillas and easy to wrap.
Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to stuff your burritos with as much filling as possible, but resist the urge! Overfilling will make them difficult to wrap and they’ll be more likely to fall apart. A little goes a long way.
Customize to Your Liking: The beauty of these burritos is that you can customize them to your liking. Add your favorite veggies, beans, cheeses, and toppings. Get creative and have fun! I once made a batch with butternut squash in the winter and it was perfect.
Wrap Them Tight: Wrapping the burritos tightly will help them hold their shape and prevent them from falling apart. Fold in the sides, then fold up the bottom and roll tightly. Use the side of your hands to make them nice and snug.
Sear Them for Extra Flavor: For an extra touch of flavor and texture, you can sear the wrapped burritos in a dry skillet over medium heat for a minute or two per side. This will give them a nice crispy exterior and seal in the filling.
Homemade Salsa is Best: If you have the time, homemade salsa is always the best. It’s fresher, more flavorful, and you can customize it to your liking. Even a simple pico de gallo is a great addition. I add cilantro to everything.
Don’t Forget the Toppings: The toppings are what really make these burritos special. Sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce… the possibilities are endless. Set out a variety of toppings and let everyone customize their own.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftover **Beef Burritos Recipe**, here’s how to store and reheat them to keep them fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving cooked burritos at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate them as soon as possible. Wrap them in foil to keep them fresh.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure they’re properly sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the burritos. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap them again in foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. You can store them in the freezer for up to two months.
Reheating in the Microwave: To reheat a burrito in the microwave, remove it from the plastic wrap and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the tortilla tough. I always add a wet paper towel on top to keep it most.
Reheating in the Oven: For a crispier burrito, you can reheat it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the burrito from the plastic wrap and wrap it in foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Reheating in a Skillet: For a truly crispy burrito, you can reheat it in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through and the tortilla is crispy and golden brown. This is my personal favorite method!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to **Beef Burritos Recipe** that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite in your house too! These burritos are so worth making because they’re easy, flavorful, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover ingredients and reduce food waste. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other Tex-Mex favorites like my enchiladas or my homemade tacos. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your burritos turn out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to leave a rating. I would love to see all the amazing results! You could also let me know if you added any extra spice!
Beef Burritos Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 cup Chopped Onion
- 1 cup Diced Tomatoes
- 0.5 cup Taco Seasoning
- 12 count Burrito-size tortillas
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes and taco seasoning.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, or until heated through.
- Warm the tortillas according to package directions.
- Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture and shredded cheese.
- Roll up tightly and serve.
