Let’s talk comfort food. What’s better than a burrito? I love a good burrito, but sometimes I just need something quick. Is it easy to whip up something on a busy weeknight? What’s your favorite beef burrito recipe? It’s like the cozy blanket of the food world, but with a spicy kick. If you love the ease of a good taco night but crave something even more substantial, trust me, this is the recipe. What is the best burrito recipe?
What is Beef Burrito?
Think of beef burrito as the bigger, bolder cousin of a taco. What is a soft tortilla? ) wrapped around a savory filling. In this case, we’re talking seasoned Ground Beef, rice, beans, cheese, and all your favorite foods. What is the beauty of a burrito? Some people serve them with guacamole and sour cream, while others prefer a simple salsa and cheese. What makes your taste buds sing? What are some of the best comfort food recipes you can make at home? Is there a
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this Beef Burrito Recipe is how customizable it is. What are the main reasons why this recipe is a winner?
- Flavor explosion: WhatWhat is ground beef with a creamy tomato sauce? Rice, creamy beans, and melted cheese. I always add a pinch of smoked paprika to my salsa. It just elevates the flavor.
- Insanely easy:What are some of the best recipes for a busy weeknight? What is the best way to have dinner on the table in 30 minutes? My kids actually help me assemble them, which makes it even faster (and more fun!).
- Budget friendlyWhy is ground beef a good protein? What is a healthy meal that won’t break the bank? I often buy ground beef in bulk and freeze it in portions, making it even more economical.
- What is the best meal prep tool?What are the best burritos for meal prep? Can you assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer? Lunch or dinner? I make a big batch on Sundays, and it saves me so much time during the week.
- Totally versatile:Don’t like beans? Swap them out for corn. Want to add some extra veggies? Go for it! This recipe is incredibly flexible, so you can tailor it to your liking. I usually throw in some bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
Is it the best? If you’re a fan of my Speedy Quesadillas Recipe (which, by the way, is another 10-minute wonder! What is your new favorite beef burrito recipe?
How do I make a Beef Burrito?
Quick Overview
How do you make a beef burrito? How do I cook Ground Beef in tomato sauce? While the beef simmers, you’ll prepare the rice and beans. What are some great toppings for burritos? What is the secret to a great burrito? I’ve learned that the hard way! What is the key to getting the balance right and not to pack it too full?
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for the best flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil per 1 cup.
- 1 medium onion, chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 can tomato sauce per 15 ounces.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder. 1 tablespoon Black Pepper.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder. 1/4 teaspoon
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (trust me on this one)
- Salt and pepper to taste.
For the Burrito Assembly:
- 6 large flour tortillas.
- 2 cups cooked rice (I like using brown rice for a healthier option)
- 1 (15-ounce) can of refried beans (or black beans, if you prefer)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)?
- Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, cilantro, diced tomatoes, and guacamole.
How do I get step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Dispose of excess grease. I always use leaner ground beef, but that little bit of fat helps with the flavour.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. The smell is amazing! This is where the base of flavour comes from, so don’t rush this step. They start to caramelize a little bit.
Step 3: Simmer in Tomato Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened. I always taste and adjust the seasonings to my liking. This allows the flavors to meld together. I like to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to my soup. Is it bad for you?
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
While the beef is simmering, warm the tortillas. How do you do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 seconds per side? If you have a paper towel, microwave it for 30 seconds. What is the best way to make tortillas more pliable?
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Lay tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of refried beans down the center of the tortilla. Top with rice, beef filling, and shredded cheese. Don’t overfill a tortilla, or it will be difficult to fold.
Step 6: Fold the Burritos
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold the bottom up and over the filling. How do you roll a burrito tightly to enclose the filling?
Step 7: Sear for Extra Crispness (Optional)
If you want crispy burritos, heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Place the burrito seam-side down in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Is it brown and crispy? This step is totally optional, but it adds a nice texture to the burrito.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your beef burritos immediately with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and diced tomatoes. And don’t forget a side of tortilla chips!
What to Serve It With
These beef burritos are a complete meal on their own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, here are a few ideas:
For a Casual Fiesta: Serve with tortilla chips and guacamole. A side of Mexican street corn is always a hit too!
For a Hearty Meal: Add a side of Spanish rice and a black bean salad. This makes for a really filling and satisfying dinner.
For a Lighter Option: Pair your burrito with a fresh green salad or a cup of tortilla soup. It’s all about balance!
My Family’s Favourite: We always have a side of pickled jalapeños on the table. My husband puts them on everything!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Burrito
Here are a few of my top tips for making the perfect beef burrito every time:
Don’t Overfill: This is the most common mistake people make. If you overfill the tortilla, it will be difficult to fold and will likely tear. Less is more!
Warm the Tortillas: As I mentioned before, warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from tearing. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
Use Good Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the burrito. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. I always try to buy organic when possible.
Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the beef filling generously. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. I always add a little extra chili powder for a bit of heat.
Get Creative with Toppings: The toppings are where you can really customize your burrito. Experiment with different salsas, cheeses, and toppings to find your perfect combination. My personal favorite is a mix of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and pico de gallo.
Make it Ahead: As I mentioned before, these burritos are great for meal prepping. You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef filling. You could also use a spicy salsa as a topping. I always have a bottle of my favorite hot sauce on hand!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature: Cooked beef burritos should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F.
Refrigerator Storage: To store cooked beef burritos in the refrigerator, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. Make sure they are properly wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, beef burritos can be frozen. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, they can last in the freezer for up to two to three months.
Reheating in the Microwave: To reheat a refrigerated beef burrito in the microwave, remove the wrapping and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful, as the filling can get very hot!
Reheating in the Oven: To reheat a frozen beef burrito in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the wrapping and place the burrito on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier burrito, bake it uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to beef burrito recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or just satisfying a craving for some seriously delicious comfort food. It’s simple, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this recipe is a winner because it combines amazing flavor with ultimate convenience. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my super easy Chicken Fajita Wraps or my One-Pan Taco Skillet for more quick and tasty Mexican-inspired meals! I hope you give this Beef Burrito Recipe a try and let me know what you think. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!

Beef Burrito Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 cup Uncooked Rice
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes
- 0.5 cup Chopped Onion
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder
- 12 count Burrito Tortillas
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the rice, diced tomatoes, onion, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
- Warm the tortillas according to package directions. Fill each tortilla with the beef mixture.
- Serve immediately.