If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dish, these beef and bean burritos are the perfect choice. With a combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese, they’re ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.
Homemade burritos are healthier, tastier, and far more customizable than store-bought options. If you enjoy easy-to-make recipes like this, you might also love our Pumpkin Banana Loaf, a sweet and satisfying treat perfect for meal prep.
Why Choose Homemade Burritos?
Making burritos at home offers several benefits:
- Healthier Ingredients: You control what goes inside, ensuring a fresher and healthier meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Homemade burritos are far cheaper than takeout options.
- Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep—make a batch and freeze them for quick lunches or dinners.
For more customizable recipes, try our Stuffed Pepper Soup Crockpot Recipe for a comforting one-pot meal that’s just as versatile.
Ingredients for Beef and Bean Burritos
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (90–93% lean).
- ¾ cup diced yellow onion.
- 16-ounce can refried beans.
- 16-ounce can pinto beans (rinsed and drained).
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack).
- 8 burrito-sized flour tortillas.
Seasonings and Add-Ons
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste.
- 4 teaspoons taco seasoning.
- ½ cup water.
- 4-ounce can diced green chiles.
- Hot sauce (optional, to taste).
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Cook the Beef Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion.
- Cook until the beef is browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Stir in tomato paste, taco seasoning, water, and diced green chiles.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Prepare the Bean Mixture
- In a bowl, combine refried beans and pinto beans. Mix until creamy.
3. Assemble the Burritos
- Place a tortilla on a flat surface.
- Spread ¼ cup of the bean mixture in the center.
- Add ½ cup of the beef filling and ⅓ cup of shredded cheese.
- Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom up.
How to Store and Reheat Burritos
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap each burrito in parchment paper, followed by aluminum foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe bag labeled with the date. Burritos can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave: Remove foil, wrap the burrito in a paper towel, and heat for 2 minutes. Flip and heat for an additional 30 seconds.
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F and reheat foil-wrapped burritos for 45 minutes.
Creative Variations
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add sautéed red peppers, corn, and pepper Jack cheese for extra spice.
- Low-Carb Burritos: Swap tortillas with lettuce wraps or low-carb alternatives.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with mushrooms or plant-based protein.
Tips for Perfect Burritos
- Warm Tortillas: Heat tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Cool the Filling: Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly to avoid soggy tortillas.
- Seal Tightly: Rolling burritos tightly ensures the filling stays intact during reheating.
For another easy and flavorful dish, try our Stove-Top Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe for a comforting dinner idea.
FAQs About Beef and Bean Burritos
1. Can I make burritos ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them, wrap tightly, and store in the fridge or freezer for later use.
2. Can I use corn tortillas?
While flour tortillas are more pliable, corn tortillas can work for smaller burritos if warmed beforehand.
3. How do I prevent soggy burritos?
Allow the filling to cool before assembly and avoid overfilling the tortillas.
4. What toppings go well with burritos?
Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, shredded lettuce, or fresh cilantro are great additions.
5. Can I use plant-based protein instead of beef?
Yes, tofu, lentils, or plant-based crumbles are excellent substitutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These beef and bean burritos are a versatile and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for storing. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a meal-prep session, these burritos are a satisfying choice for any occasion.
For dessert, pair your burritos with Easy Gluten-Free Lemon Bars for a zesty and refreshing finish.
Enjoy making and sharing your burritos, and let us know your favorite fillings and toppings in the comments below! 🌯