Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe
There is nothing quite like diving into a warm, satisfying burrito that perfectly blends juicy beef and melted cheese, making it a go-to comfort food for any occasion. This Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe brings together simple, fresh ingredients that create a flavor-packed experience, from the seasoned ground beef to the gooey, cheesy goodness wrapped in soft tortillas. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, these burritos deliver hearty satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe is a breeze with just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from seasoning the beef to adding creamy, cheesy layers that elevate the flavors and textures beautifully.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty, savory base that makes this burrito filling irresistible.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch to balance the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that warm, aromatic depth that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: A little kick of smokiness that brings bold flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Earthy and slightly nutty, it’s essential for authentic taste.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers a subtle smoky undertone without heat.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- ½ cup salsa: Introduces tangy freshness and moisture to the beef mix.
- ½ cup refried beans: Creamy texture that helps bind the filling together.
- ¼ cup water: Used to loosen the filling so it’s just the right consistency.
- 4 large flour tortillas: Soft, flexible wraps that hold in all the deliciousness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, perfect for cheesy goodness.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creamy, mild flavor and gooey texture.
- ¼ cup sour cream (optional): Cool and tangy dip to complement the spiced beef.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional): Bright herbaceous notes to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s thoroughly browned. This is where the base flavor develops, so make sure to break the meat apart evenly and drain any excess grease to avoid sogginess.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant, blending their sweetness with the rich meat.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices are the heart of the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe, transforming simple beef into a deeply flavorful filling.
Step 4: Add Salsa & Beans
Mix in the salsa, refried beans, and water, then let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This step thickens the mixture, creating a rich, cohesive filling that clings beautifully to the tortillas.
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
Heat your tortillas either in a dry skillet or pop them in the microwave for about 20 seconds. Warm tortillas are easier to roll and much more enjoyable to bite into.
Step 6: Assemble Burritos
Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, then sprinkle on the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Roll the tortillas tightly to keep all those delicious layers inside.
Step 7: Toast the Burritos
Place the rolled burritos in a clean skillet over medium heat and toast for 1 to 2 minutes on each side. This step locks in the filling, melts the cheese, and gives the outside a lovely golden crunch.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your burritos hot, optionally topped with sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
How to Serve Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like sour cream and chopped cilantro isn’t just about looks; they bring creaminess and a refreshing herbaceous note that balances the spiced beef and cheese really well. A squeeze of lime or a few slices of avocado also complement the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these burritos with classic sides like Mexican rice, a crisp salad, or crunchy tortilla chips and guacamole. These sides round out the meal, adding different textures and flavors that keep every bite exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn these burritos into a casserole layered with more cheese and beans, or cut them into bite-sized pieces for party-friendly appetizers. Wrapping each burrito in foil keeps them warm longer and makes for easy serving during casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover burritos can be wrapped individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a convenient, delicious quick meal ready to be reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze these burritos by wrapping each tightly and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat burritos in a skillet on medium heat to regain some crunch on the outside and ensure the cheese melts again. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option but cover the burrito with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices for the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend to suit your taste preference.
Is it possible to make this burrito recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. The spices and beans will still create a flavorful filling that’s just as satisfying.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe has a mild to medium spice level because of the chili powder and cumin, but you can always adjust the seasoning by adding more chili powder or including a dash of hot sauce if you prefer more heat.
Can these burritos be made ahead of time for meal prep?
Definitely. You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the burritos the night before. Toast them just before eating to enjoy the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe at its freshest.
What type of tortillas work best?
Large flour tortillas are ideal because they are soft, pliable, and big enough to hold all the filling without tearing. However, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas depending on your dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
Making the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe is not only simple but incredibly rewarding. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, packed with bold flavors and comforting textures. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection — you won’t regret it!
Print
Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and delicious recipe for beef and cheese burritos featuring seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, wrapped in warm flour tortillas and toasted to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup salsa
- ½ cup refried beans
- ¼ cup water
For Assembly & Serving
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease from the pan for a healthier result.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and fragrant.
- Season: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the meat and onion mixture.
- Add Salsa & Beans: Stir in the salsa, refried beans, and water. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Warm Tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or microwave them briefly to make them soft and pliable for rolling.
- Assemble Burritos: Spoon an equal amount of the beef and bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, then roll the tortillas tightly to enclose the filling.
- Toast Burritos: Place a clean skillet over medium heat and toast each rolled burrito for 1-2 minutes per side, until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.
- Serve: Serve the burritos warm. Optionally, top with sour cream and chopped cilantro for added creaminess and fresh flavor.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy salsa.
- Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
- Leftover burritos can be wrapped in foil and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- You can add other fillings such as rice, avocado, or diced tomatoes if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
