The beef burrito is a beloved Tex-Mex classic that blends bold flavors, hearty fillings, and satisfying textures in a warm tortilla wrap. Originally inspired by Mexican cuisine and made popular in American kitchens, the burrito has become a comfort food staple for good reason. Whether you’re craving something meaty, cheesy, or spicy, this dish has you covered.
What makes the beef burrito truly special is its versatility. With juicy seasoned beef, creamy beans, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and zesty toppings, each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, beef burritos are always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a classic beef burrito. Adjust as needed based on preferences or dietary needs.
For the Filling:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp oregano
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ cup tomato sauce or salsa
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1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
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1 cup black beans (canned, drained & rinsed)
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1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
For Assembly:
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4 large flour tortillas (10–12 inch)
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½ cup sour cream
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½ cup chopped lettuce
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½ cup diced tomatoes
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¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
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Hot sauce or jalapeños (optional)
Substitutions:
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Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
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Swap flour tortillas with gluten-free wraps.
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Replace cheese with vegan cheese to make it dairy-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
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Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned.
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Drain excess fat, if needed.
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Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Stir in tomato sauce or salsa and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
2. Warm the Tortillas
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Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 15–20 seconds per side or microwave under a damp paper towel for 30 seconds.
3. Assemble the Burritos
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Lay each tortilla flat.
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Add ¼ of the beef mixture, followed by rice, beans, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream.
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Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom to seal.
4. Optional: Toast the Burrito
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Place seam-side down in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes to crisp up the tortilla and melt the cheese inside.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Drain the meat well to avoid soggy burritos.
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Use warm tortillas to prevent tearing when rolling.
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Don’t overfill — it makes rolling harder and messier.
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For added flavor, cook the rice in broth instead of water.
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Use a cast iron skillet to toast burritos for an authentic, crispy exterior.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian: Replace beef with grilled veggies, tofu, or more beans.
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Low-carb: Use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas.
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Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle in adobo.
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Cheesy melt: Add queso sauce or extra cheese inside before toasting.
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Breakfast style: Add scrambled eggs and hash browns.
Serving Suggestions
Serve beef burritos with:
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Guacamole or avocado slices
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Salsa or pico de gallo
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Tortilla chips and queso dip
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Mexican rice or corn salad
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Iced tea, horchata, or lime soda
For presentation, slice burritos diagonally and serve with lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per burrito)
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Calories: 580 kcal
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 45g
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Fat: 32g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sugar: 4g
Values may vary based on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make beef burritos ahead of time?
Yes! Wrap them in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
How do I freeze beef burritos?
Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Absolutely, though homemade spice blends offer better control of salt and flavor.
How do I stop my burritos from falling apart?
Use a warm, pliable tortilla and avoid overstuffing. Tuck in the sides tightly as you roll.
Closing Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about crafting your own homemade beef burrito — juicy, cheesy, and wrapped just the way you like it. Whether you’re making dinner for family or prepping lunches for the week, this beef burrito recipe is sure to impress.
Ready to roll? Try it out, and don’t forget to share your creation or ask questions in the comments.
