Beef Burrito Recipe | Easy Homemade Burritos Packed with Flavor
Introduction
A perfectly made beef burrito brings together everything people love about hearty comfort food. It is warm, flavorful, and filled with juicy meat, melty cheese, and soft tortillas that wrap up all the goodness in a single bite. Every culture has its version of comfort food, but burritos have a special place in the hearts of those who enjoy bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients Needed
Making a flavorful beef burrito starts with choosing the right ingredients. Fresh produce and high-quality beef make a huge difference in both taste and texture. Below is a complete list of what you will need, along with a calorie estimate for each ingredient.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (85 percent lean) | 500 grams | 1200 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Red bell pepper (chopped) | 1 | 40 |
| Cooked white rice | 1 cup | 200 |
| Black beans (rinsed and drained) | 1 cup | 220 |
| Taco seasoning | 2 tablespoons | 30 |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | 25 |
| Water or beef broth | ½ cup | 5 |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | 400 |
| Flour tortillas (large) | 6 | 720 |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | 120 |
| Chopped lettuce | 1 cup | 15 |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup | 35 |
| Cilantro (optional) | 2 tablespoons | 5 |
Total estimated calories per burrito: around 650 to 700 calories, depending on portion size and toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the onions turn soft and fragrant. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, allowing it to cook evenly until browned on all sides.
Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the filling rich but not greasy. Once drained, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Mix well so that every bit of beef gets coated with those smoky and spicy flavors. Add tomato paste and a splash of water or beef broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about five minutes. This step allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
2. Mix in the Vegetables and Beans
Toss in the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another three minutes until the pepper softens slightly but still retains a little crunch. Add the black beans and cooked rice to the pan. Stir well so that all the components are evenly mixed. This combination gives the burrito its signature heartiness and helps hold the filling together.
3. Warm the Tortillas
Take a clean skillet or griddle and warm the flour tortillas one by one for about 20 seconds per side. Warm tortillas are flexible and less likely to tear when you roll them. You can also wrap them in a damp towel and heat them in the microwave for 30 seconds.
4. Assemble the Burritos
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about half a cup of the beef mixture into the center. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a spoonful of sour cream, chopped lettuce, and diced tomatoes. Fold in the sides first, then roll the tortilla from the bottom to the top, keeping it tight to seal everything inside.
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
5. Optional Finishing Touch
For a restaurant-style burrito, place the rolled burritos on a hot skillet for a minute or two on each side. This gives the tortilla a lightly crisp exterior and melts the cheese inside for that irresistible texture.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about burritos is how easily you can make them your own. Here are some ways to customize your beef burrito to suit different tastes and occasions:
- Spice Level: Add extra chili powder or chopped jalapeños if you love heat. For a milder flavor, reduce the taco seasoning or use sweet paprika instead.
- Cheese Choice: Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a twist in flavor.
- Healthier Version: Replace white rice with brown rice or quinoa and use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or extra beans for a protein-rich vegetarian burrito.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips inside the burrito before rolling it up for a fun crunch in every bite.
- Sauce Upgrade: Drizzle homemade salsa, chipotle sauce, or avocado crema inside before rolling to add moisture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
A standard serving of one beef burrito provides an approximate breakdown as follows:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 680 |
| Protein | 35 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 55 grams |
| Fat | 30 grams |
| Fiber | 7 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 920 milligrams |
Values vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. Choosing lean beef and using whole wheat tortillas can lower the fat content while adding more fiber.
Serving Suggestions
A beef burrito pairs beautifully with simple yet flavorful side dishes. You can serve it with fresh guacamole, spicy salsa, or a side of Mexican rice. For a refreshing touch, add a light salad with lime dressing. If serving at a party, set up a burrito bar where everyone can customize their fillings and toppings.
To make it more indulgent, cover the burritos with melted cheese and bake them for ten minutes before serving. This transforms them into baked burritos that are golden and bubbly on top.
Pair your burrito with a cool drink such as iced lemonade, a citrus mocktail, or traditional Mexican horchata. The contrast of cool and spicy flavors creates a balanced and satisfying meal.
Beef Burrito Recipe | Easy Homemade Burritos Packed with Flavor
Course: Blog6
servings15
minutes25
minutes680
kcalIngredients
500 grams ground beef (85% lean)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup cooked white rice
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Directions
- Cook the Beef Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add Seasoning and Sauce
- Drain excess fat from the beef. Stir in taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water or beef broth. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to develop rich flavor.
- Combine with Rice and Beans
- Add cooked rice, black beans, and chopped red bell pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 3 minutes.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best flavor, use freshly cooked rice and warm tortillas before filling. You can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding chili flakes or jalapeños. If you plan to store leftovers, wrap each burrito tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to two days or freeze for later use. Homemade burritos taste even better when shared with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the beef burrito ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before assembling to maintain the best flavor.
2. How do I store leftover burritos?
Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the burritos individually and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative while still providing great taste.
4. What toppings go best with beef burritos?
Common favorites include salsa, guacamole, chopped onions, jalapeños, and shredded lettuce. You can also add pico de gallo for extra freshness.
5. How can I prevent burritos from falling apart?
Make sure not to overfill the tortillas. Keep the filling compact and roll tightly, folding in the sides before rolling upward. Warm tortillas help keep them intact.
Conclusion
Cooking beef burritos at home feels rewarding because you control every ingredient that goes into them. The combination of seasoned beef, melted cheese, soft tortillas, and vibrant toppings turns a simple meal into a comforting experience. Every bite carries warmth, spice, and satisfaction that makes it hard to stop at just one.
