Beef Burritos

This Beef Burritos recipe features seasoned ground beef, black beans, and melted cheese wrapped in soft flour tortillas. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family meals, these burritos are quick to assemble, flavorful, and customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 10 oz can Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilis, with juice
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4–1/2 tsp chili powder, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
• 15 oz can black beans, with juice (or tri-bean blend)
• 6, 10-inch flour tortillas
• 2 cups (8 oz) shredded Mexican cheese blend, or equal parts mozzarella and medium cheddar

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Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

• Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked, about 5 minutes.
• Skim off most excess fat, leaving 2–3 tablespoons in the pan.

2. Add Seasonings and Onion

• Stir in onion, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
• Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the beef is browned, about 3–4 minutes.

3. Add Tomatoes and Beans

• Mix in Rotel tomatoes and black beans, including their juices.
• Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and most liquid evaporates, about 8–10 minutes.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Burritos

• Lay tortillas flat on a clean surface.
• Sprinkle half of the cheese in the center, leaving a 1-inch border.
• Spoon approximately 2/3 cup of beef mixture over the cheese.
• Top with remaining cheese.
• Fold the short sides over the filling, then fold the bottom edge over and roll tightly. Fold in corners as needed. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

5. Heat Burritos

• Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Place each burrito seam-side down and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 3–5 minutes.
• Serve with toppings or sauces of choice.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Mexican-inspired burritos packed with flavorful beef and beans.
• Crispy outside with gooey cheese inside.
• Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
• Fully customizable with your favorite toppings.

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Tips

• Use warm tortillas for easier rolling.
• Don’t overfill to prevent bursting while cooking.
• Cook seam-side down first to seal burrito completely.
• Add fresh cilantro or lime juice for extra flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.
• Beans: Use pinto beans, kidney beans, or refried beans.
• Cheese: Swap Mexican blend for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
• Spice: Adjust chili powder or add hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetables: Include bell peppers, corn, or sautéed mushrooms.

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FAQs

Can I make burritos ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and wrap in foil. Refrigerate for up to 2 days, then reheat.

Can I freeze burritos?
Yes, wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

How do I keep burritos from falling apart?
Leave a 1-inch border when filling and roll tightly, folding in edges securely.

Can I cook them without the skillet step?
Yes, they can be baked at 375°F for 15–20 minutes to warm through and melt cheese.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or pico de gallo.
• Pair with Mexican rice, corn salad, or tortilla chips.
• Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños.
• Great for lunch boxes, family dinners, or casual gatherings.