Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe

Introduction

Beef and Bean Burritos are a comforting and satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. This classic Mexican dish combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, cheese, and a variety of fresh toppings wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Beef and Bean Burritos are the perfect choice.

This hearty meal is customizable with a wide array of fillings and toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, and more. The best part? It’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to meal for busy nights. Plus, with the combination of protein-packed beef and beans, these burritos are incredibly filling and satisfying.

In this article, we will walk you through the process of making Beef and Bean Burritos from scratch. From preparing the flavorful filling to assembling the burritos, you’ll learn how to create this delicious dish step by step. Let’s dive into making the perfect Beef and Bean Burritos!

Why You’ll Love Beef and Bean Burritos

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, Beef and Bean Burritos come together in just 30 minutes.
• Customizable: You can adjust the fillings and toppings to suit your preferences, whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or extra-loaded with veggies.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Beef and Bean Burritos can be made ahead of time and stored for a few days in the refrigerator or frozen for later.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love these burritos, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile: They can be served as a main dish, in a lunchbox, or even as a fun snack for a party.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 22-25g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the Beef and Bean Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) refried beans (or black beans, if you prefer)
• 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembling the Burritos:

• 4 large flour tortillas (burrito-sized)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded (optional)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
• 1/2 cup salsa (optional)
• 1/2 cup guacamole (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Lime wedges (optional)

Special Equipment

While Beef and Bean Burritos can be made with basic kitchen tools, a few pieces of equipment will make the process easier:

1. Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A large skillet is perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic. It will also be used to heat the refried beans and mix everything together.
2. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the ground beef and stir the filling mixture.
3. Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife will make chopping the onions and garlic easier, while a cutting board provides a safe surface for cutting.
4. Large Serving Tray or Platter: If you’re serving multiple burritos at once, a large serving tray or platter will make it easier to assemble and serve the burritos.
5. Tongs: Tongs are great for flipping and handling the tortillas when warming them, as well as when assembling the burritos.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pan, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Once the onions and garlic are softened, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the beef as it cooks. Stir occasionally, cooking the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the beef.

2. Add the Refried Beans

Next, add the can of refried beans to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine the beans with the beef and onion mixture. Pour in 1/2 cup of beef broth (or water) to help thin out the mixture and create a creamy texture.

Stir the mixture until the beans are fully incorporated and everything is heated through. Let it simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Warm the Tortillas

While the beef and bean mixture is simmering, warm the flour tortillas. Heat a separate dry skillet over medium heat. Place each tortilla in the skillet for about 30-45 seconds on each side, or until it becomes warm and slightly toasted. Be careful not to overheat the tortillas, as they could become crispy and hard to roll.

Alternatively, you can wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30-45 seconds to soften them.

4. Assemble the Burritos

Once the tortillas are warmed and the beef and bean mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble the burritos. Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface or plate.

Spoon a generous amount of the beef and bean mixture into the center of the tortilla, leaving about 2-3 inches on the sides. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the filling, allowing the cheese to melt into the warm mixture.

5. Add Toppings (Optional)

This is where you can get creative and add your favorite toppings. You can add a few spoonfuls of sour cream, salsa, and guacamole to the burrito, or you can add fresh vegetables like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Lime wedges on the side also add a refreshing citrusy flavor.

6. Roll the Burrito

To roll the burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then carefully roll it up from the bottom to enclose the filling inside. Be sure to roll tightly so the burrito holds together, but not so tightly that it tears the tortilla.

Once the burrito is rolled, you can serve it as is or grill it slightly in the skillet for an extra crispy texture. To grill, heat a small amount of oil in the same skillet and place the rolled burrito seam-side down. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once the burrito is assembled and optionally grilled, it’s ready to serve! Arrange the burritos on a platter and serve with your favorite sides, such as Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.

Tips for Perfect Beef and Bean Burritos

• Use Lean Beef: To keep the burritos on the healthier side, use lean or extra-lean ground beef. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
• Customize the Fillings: Beef and Bean Burritos are highly customizable. You can add sautéed peppers, corn, or even a bit of jalapeño for some heat. Experiment with different beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, depending on your preference.
• Don’t Overfill: Be sure not to overfill the burritos. A heaping scoop of filling can cause the tortilla to rip or make the burrito hard to roll.
• Warm the Tortillas: Warming the tortillas before assembling the burritos makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking or tearing when you roll them.
• Grill for Extra Crispness: If you like your burritos crispy, try grilling them after rolling. This adds a delicious crunch and keeps the filling warm and secure inside.
• Use Homemade Taco Seasoning: For a more authentic and customizable flavor, consider making your own taco seasoning blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices.

Variations of Beef and Bean Burritos

• Vegetarian Burritos: Skip the ground beef and use a plant-based protein, like tofu or tempeh, along with the refried beans for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Beef and Bean Burrito Bowls: If you prefer not to use tortillas, serve the beef and bean mixture in a bowl with rice, lettuce, and all the same toppings for a burrito bowl.
• Spicy Beef and Bean Burritos: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos: Layer extra cheese inside the burritos or sprinkle it on top before grilling for an even cheesier experience.
• Chicken and Bean Burritos: Use shredded cooked chicken in place of ground beef for a lighter alternative.

Storage and Shelf Life

Leftover Beef and Bean Burritos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The burritos can be reheated in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through.

If you want to freeze the burritos for later, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat them in the microwave or oven.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef and Bean Burritos

• Mexican Rice: Serve the burritos with a side of Mexican rice, which adds a flavorful and colorful touch to the meal.
• Black Beans: A side of black beans or pinto beans pairs wonderfully with the beef and bean burritos.
• Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing, tortilla chips and salsa make a great side dish to enjoy with your burritos.
• Guacamole: Fresh guacamole is a perfect accompaniment to burritos, offering a creamy and tangy contrast to the savory filling.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled corn, bell peppers, or zucchini make a great side to complement the rich flavors of the burritos.

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Conclusion

Beef and Bean Burritos are a fantastic meal that is both delicious and easy to make. With their hearty beef and bean filling, customizable toppings, and soft tortilla wrapping, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you make them for a weeknight dinner, a party, or meal prep, these burritos are a great way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Try out the recipe today and get creative with your fillings and toppings. These Beef and Bean Burritos are a family-friendly dish that everyone will love!