Beef burritos, a culinary staple loved worldwide, are more than just a quick and easy meal; they’re a celebration of flavor and convenience wrapped in a warm tortilla. Have you ever craved a dish that’s both satisfying and customizable, a blank canvas for your favorite ingredients? Then look no further! This recipe will guide you through creating the perfect beef burritos, bursting with savory goodness that will tantalize your taste buds.

The burrito, with its humble beginnings in Mexico, has evolved into a global phenomenon. While its exact origins are debated, it’s widely believed to have originated as a convenient way for field workers to transport their meals. Today, it represents a fusion of cultures and tastes, adapted to suit every palate.

What makes beef burritos so irresistible? It’s the symphony of textures and flavors the tender, seasoned beef, the creamy beans, the tangy salsa, all nestled within a soft, warm tortilla. They are incredibly versatile, perfect for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or even a portable snack. Plus, they are endlessly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings and create a truly personalized culinary experience. So, let’s get started and create some delicious beef burritos together!

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
1 large Onion, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
1 (15 ounce) can Black Beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can Corn, drained
1 (10 ounce) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies, undrained
1 packet Taco Seasoning (or homemade blend, recipe below)
1/2 cup Water
1 cup Cooked Rice (white or brown, your preference)
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1/2 cup Sour Cream (optional)
1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (optional)
Large Flour Tortillas (burrito size, about 10-12 inches)
Vegetable Oil, for cooking

Homemade Taco Seasoning (Optional):

2 tablespoons Chili Powder
1 tablespoon Ground Cumin
1 teaspoon Paprika
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (or more, to taste)
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Preparing the Beef Filling:

Brown the Ground Beef: Heat about a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned all over. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy burrito!
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not mushy. The aroma at this point should be amazing!
Add the Beans, Corn, and Rotel: Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Make sure everything is well combined. The Rotel adds a nice kick, so adjust the amount if you’re sensitive to spice.
Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the taco seasoning (either store-bought or your homemade blend) over the beef and vegetable mixture. Add the water and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the beef filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste.

Assembling the Burritos:

Warm the Tortillas: This is a very important step! Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, or until they are pliable. You can also warm them in the microwave by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 15-30 seconds. Warming the tortillas prevents them from cracking when you roll them.
Layer the Ingredients: Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the beef filling into the center of the tortilla. Don’t overfill it, or it will be difficult to roll!
Add Rice and Cheese: Top the beef filling with a couple of tablespoons of cooked rice and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. The rice adds a nice texture and helps to absorb any excess moisture.
Add Optional Toppings: If desired, add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. These are optional, but they add a nice coolness and freshness to the burrito.
Fold the Sides: Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, covering the filling.
Roll the Burrito: Starting from the bottom edge closest to you, tightly roll the burrito away from you, keeping the sides tucked in. You want to create a tight, secure roll so that the filling doesn’t spill out.
Repeat: Repeat steps 2-6 with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Optional: Grilling or Baking the Burritos:

While the burritos are delicious as is, you can also grill or bake them for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Grilling:

Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat.
Grill the Burritos: Lightly brush the outside of each burrito with vegetable oil. Place the burritos on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. Watch them carefully to prevent burning!
Serve: Remove the burritos from the grill and serve immediately.

Baking:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Arrange the Burritos: Place the burritos seam-side down in a baking dish.
Bake: Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the burritos are heated through and the cheese is melted.
Optional: Top with Cheese: For an extra cheesy treat, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the burritos during the last few minutes of baking.
Serve: Remove the burritos from the oven and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions:

These beef burritos are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with some tasty sides and toppings. Here are a few ideas:

Guacamole: A classic pairing! The creamy avocado complements the savory beef filling perfectly.
Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa, from mild to hot, to add a burst of flavor.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and tangy contrast to the spicy filling.
Hot Sauce: For those who like it hot, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce will kick things up a notch.
Mexican Rice: Serve the burritos with a side of Mexican rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Refried Beans: Another classic side dish that pairs perfectly with burritos.
Chopped Lettuce and Tomatoes: Add a refreshing crunch with some chopped lettuce and tomatoes.

Tips and Variations:

Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a vegetarian ground beef substitute. You can also add more beans and vegetables.
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Make it Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning, or use a hotter variety of Rotel. You can also add chopped jalapeños to the filling.
Make it Ahead: You can prepare the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble the burritos, simply reheat the filling.
Freeze for Later: These burritos freeze well. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the burritos in the refrigerator overnight and then microwave them or bake them in the oven until heated through.
Customize to Your Liking: The best thing about burritos is that you can customize them to your own taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your perfect burrito!

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Calories: Approximately 600-800 per burrito
Protein: 30-40 grams
Fat

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This beef burrito recipe is truly a game-changer, and I genuinely believe it’s one you absolutely must try. Why? Because it’s not just about throwing some ingredients into a tortilla; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you completely satisfied. We’re talking tender, seasoned beef, perfectly balanced with the coolness of fresh toppings and the warmth of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a soft, comforting tortilla. It’s a culinary hug in every bite!

But beyond the incredible taste, this recipe is also incredibly versatile and adaptable to your own preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sharp cheddar would all work beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra tanginess. And for those who like a little heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of diced jalapeños will definitely kick things up a notch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Think beyond just a simple burrito! These are fantastic served with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal. Or, cut them in half and arrange them on a platter for a party appetizer that’s sure to disappear quickly.

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

* Breakfast Burritos: Scramble some eggs and add them to the filling for a hearty and delicious breakfast option.
* Veggie Boost: Incorporate some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chipotle powder to the beef mixture for a fiery twist.
* Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble the burritos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for a quick and easy meal on busy weeknights. Just wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, a fantastic party food, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Now, it’s your turn! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this beef burrito recipe a try. Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on it. The most important thing is to have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the process.

And most importantly, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve made these delicious burritos, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what toppings you added, and how much your family and friends enjoyed them. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to improve and create even more amazing recipes for you. So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to make the best beef burritos you’ve ever tasted! Happy cooking!
Beef Burritos: The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Homemade Burritos

Hearty beef burritos with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, Rotel, rice, and cheese. A satisfying and customizable meal!

Prep Time20 minutes

Cook Time40 minutes

Total Time60 minutes

Category: Dinner

Yield: 8-10 burritos

Save This Recipe

Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can Black Beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can Corn, drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies, undrained
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning (or homemade blend, see below)
- 1/2 cup Water
- 1 cup Cooked Rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (optional)
- Large Flour Tortillas (burrito size, about 10-12 inches)
- Vegetable Oil, for cooking
- 2 tablespoons Chili Powder
- 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
1. Heat about a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned all over. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies. Make sure everything is well combined.
4. Sprinkle the taco seasoning (either store-bought or your homemade blend) over the beef and vegetable mixture. Add the water and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. After simmering, taste the beef filling and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, or until they are pliable. You can also warm them in the microwave by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 15-30 seconds.
8. Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the beef filling into the center of the tortilla.
9. Top the beef filling with a couple of tablespoons of cooked rice and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
10. If desired, add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
11. Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, covering the filling.
12. Starting from the bottom edge closest to you, tightly roll the burrito away from you, keeping the sides tucked in.
13. Repeat steps 2-6 with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Notes
- Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for the best flavor.
- Warming the tortillas is crucial to prevent cracking.
- Don’t overfill the burritos, or they will be difficult to roll.
- Customize the fillings to your liking! Add or substitute ingredients as desired.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a vegetarian ground beef substitute.
- Burritos can be made ahead of time and frozen for later.

Beef Burritos: The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Homemade Burritos