If you are craving a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both hearty and satisfying, this Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheddar cheese all wrapped in soft flour tortillas, these burritos deliver a perfect balance of savory taste, creamy texture, and a little kick if you add your favorite toppings. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this dish brings vibrant Mexican-American flavors to your table with incredible ease and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from the savory ground beef providing rich protein, to the creamy refried beans adding smooth texture, to fresh aromatics like onions and garlic that bring it all to life. The flavorful taco seasoning and cheddar cheese seal the deal, while tortillas wrap everything up for the perfect handheld meal.
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean or regular based on your preference for fattiness and flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans: Adds creaminess and heartiness to the filling.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and crunch when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth and a beautiful aroma to the mix.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade seasoning): The key to that classic Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
- 1/3 cup water: Helps to meld the spices and keep everything moist.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to bind and flavor the burrito filling.
- 1/2 cup salsa (optional): Adds a fresh, zesty element if you like a little extra tang.
- 6 large flour tortillas (10-inch): Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping all the delicious fillings.
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, shredded lettuce brighten and elevate each bite.
How to Make Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking them together until the beef is thoroughly browned and no pink remains. This usually takes about 7 to 8 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks for even browning. If there is excess grease, drain it off to avoid soggy burritos.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant—this will build layers of savory flavor. Then sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the beef mixture and pour in the 1/3 cup of water. Let everything simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so the spices fully infuse and bind the filling.
Step 3: Mix in Refried Beans and Cheese
Next, fold in the refried beans, stirring continuously until everything is warmed through and combined evenly. This addition gives the filling a luscious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the seasoned beef. Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the mixture and add gooey richness.
Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas and Assemble
Warm your flour tortillas to make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing. Spoon an even amount of the beef and bean filling into the center of each tortilla. If you like a little extra zest, add a generous spoonful of salsa on top. Then fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly to enclose the tasty filling completely.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve your beef and bean burritos immediately while they’re warm and the cheese is still melty, or prepare them ahead to reheat later. Don’t forget to offer optional toppings like sour cream, cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and shredded lettuce for guests to customize their favorite burrito experience.
How to Serve Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
The magic of these burritos doesn’t stop at the filling—garnishes really bring them to life. Cool dollops of sour cream add creamy contrast, fresh cilantro brings herbal brightness, diced tomatoes lend juicy freshness, jalapeños spice things up, and crisp shredded lettuce gives a delightful crunch. Mixing and matching these toppings lets you tailor each bite to your craving.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe with the right sides makes the meal even more satisfying. A simple Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice complements the burritos perfectly. You could also serve classic chips with guacamole or salsa for a little snack on the side. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad dressed with lime and olive oil balances the hearty burritos beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Slice burritos in half diagonally for a colorful display of cheese pull and filling layers. Stack a few burritos on a platter with all the toppings scattered around for a fun DIY burrito bar. You can even wrap them individually in foil and set them upright in a casserole dish for a casual buffet-style presentation. So many possibilities to enjoy this Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe in style!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, this Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and keep them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making them the perfect quick lunch or dinner option later in the week.
Freezing
Burritos freeze wonderfully for longer storage. Individually wrap each burrito in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture. This meal prep hack means you can enjoy a homemade, comforting burrito anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
To reheat, remove any plastic wrap and warm the burrito in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through. For a crispier tortilla, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, keeping the burritos wrapped in foil to lock in moisture. Both methods keep the filling deliciously warm and cheesy.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with extra beans, textured vegetable protein, or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Just follow the same seasoning and cooking steps for a delicious meatless version of this Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe.
What type of beans work best?
Refried beans are ideal because they provide a creamy texture and rich flavor that bind the filling nicely. If you prefer, you can also try black beans or pinto beans mashed slightly—just be sure to adjust seasoning to maintain the perfect flavor balance.
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas?
Yes! Feel free to swap the flour tortillas for whole wheat or gluten-free versions depending on your dietary needs. Just make sure to warm them before assembling to prevent cracking or tearing during rolling.
How spicy is this Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe?
The spice level depends mostly on the taco seasoning and any toppings you add. The filling itself is mildly spiced, but you can easily make it hotter by adding more jalapeños, hot sauce, or choosing a spicier seasoning packet.
Can I prepare these in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can assemble the burritos ahead of time, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate or freeze them. Reheat just before serving. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for entertaining and saves you time during your event.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how wonderfully simple and satisfying this Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe is, I hope you’ll give it a try soon. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together with its warm flavors, creamy texture, and endless adaptability. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, these burritos are sure to delight everyone at your table.
Print
Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 burritos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These hearty and flavorful Beef and Bean Burritos combine seasoned ground beef with creamy refried beans and melted cheddar cheese, all wrapped in warm flour tortillas. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, they can be customized with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or jalapeños.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade seasoning)
- 1/3 cup water
Bean Mixture
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Assembly
- 6 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1/2 cup salsa (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Jalapeños
- Shredded lettuce
Instructions
- Cook the beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7 to 8 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Add garlic and season: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the taco seasoning packet and 1/3 cup water. Stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate refried beans and cheese: Add the refried beans to the skillet and stir until fully combined and heated through. Remove the skillet from heat, then mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly combined.
- Warm the tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas briefly in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven until they are warm and pliable, making them easier to roll.
- Assemble the burritos: Spoon the beef and bean mixture evenly down the center of each tortilla. Add salsa if using. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly to enclose the filling.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the burritos warm with optional toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and shredded lettuce as desired.
Notes
- These burritos can be wrapped individually in foil and stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat frozen burritos in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas.
- Customize the filling by adding cooked rice, different cheeses, or sautéed vegetables if desired.
