The bold, zesty flavors of these Beef Burritos are sure to satisfy any craving for Tex-Mex cuisine. The seasoned beef filling, combined with the freshness of lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro, creates a perfect balance of savory and fresh. Melted cheddar cheese ties it all together in a warm, soft tortilla wrap.
These burritos are versatile and easy to prepare, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Customize the toppings to suit your taste—add guacamole, salsa, or jalapeños for extra flair. Whether you’re serving a family meal or entertaining guests, these Beef Burritos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook and break apart with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add tomato sauce and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.
- Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
- Spoon an equal amount of the beef mixture into the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Add a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly to form a burrito. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Origin and Background:
Beef burritos have their roots in Mexican cuisine, specifically the northern regions where flour tortillas are a staple. The word “burrito” translates to “little donkey” in Spanish, possibly referring to the rolled shape resembling a donkey’s ear or the practicality of carrying these portable meals on the go. Over time, burritos have become a global favorite, adapted with endless variations of fillings and flavors.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Customizable Filling: The recipe is versatile. Add beans, rice, or sautéed vegetables to make the burritos more filling. For a spicy kick, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the beef mixture.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, queso fresco, or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Tortilla Tips: Warm the tortillas before filling them to prevent cracking and to make rolling easier. You can do this in a dry skillet or by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
- Make It a Meal: Pair the burritos with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch of burritos and freeze individually wrapped portions. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe offers a balanced meal, combining protein from the beef, fiber from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the tortillas. You can make it healthier by using lean ground beef, whole wheat tortillas, and adding nutrient-rich toppings like avocado or spinach.
Fun Facts:
- Burritos gained international fame thanks to the rise of Tex-Mex cuisine, blending traditional Mexican flavors with American ingredients.
- A burrito’s size can range from a handheld snack to a massive meal, depending on the region and preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Drizzle the burritos with salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh citrus kick.
- For an authentic touch, pair them with Mexican hot chocolate or horchata for a complete dining experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
These beef burritos are ideal for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prepping for busy days. With their bold flavors and customizable nature, they’re sure to become a household favorite!
You can also include a brief section for frequently asked questions (FAQs), such as:
- Can I make the burrito filling vegetarian? (Yes, substitute ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, crumbled tofu, or a store-bought meat alternative.)
- How do I keep burritos warm for a party? (Wrap them in aluminum foil and keep them in a low-temperature oven until ready to serve.)
History and Origin:
Burritos are a traditional dish originating from northern Mexico. The use of flour tortillas in this region, rather than the corn tortillas common in southern Mexico, makes burritos a unique product of local culinary traditions. The idea of wrapping food in a tortilla likely dates back to ancient Mesoamerican times, where maize tortillas were used as a handy way to bundle and transport food. The modern burrito, particularly with fillings like seasoned beef, cheese, and lettuce, reflects the influence of both Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines.
Why This Recipe Stands Out:
This beef burrito recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Simple and Quick: With a prep time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: The recipe can be easily tailored to dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
- Freezer-Friendly: These burritos are excellent for meal prep, making them a great option for those who love convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- Balanced Flavor Profile: A combination of spices, fresh toppings, and tender beef creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Beef Burritos:
- Seasoning is Key: Toasting the spices in the pan with the beef helps enhance their aroma and depth.
- Avoid Overfilling: Overloaded tortillas can make rolling tricky. Use about 1/3 cup of filling per tortilla for easy wrapping.
- Keep Them Warm: To serve a group, keep rolled burritos warm in the oven at 200°F (93°C) until everyone is ready to eat.
- For Crispier Burritos: After rolling, lightly sear the burritos in a hot, oiled skillet for a golden-brown crust.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions:
- Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
- Add Some Heat: Stir in diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a splash of hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
- Boost Fiber and Nutrition: Add cooked black beans, pinto beans, or cooked brown rice to the filling.
- Cheese Choices: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco for a different cheesy flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with guacamole, pico de gallo, and homemade salsa for a complete Tex-Mex experience.
- Add a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or corn salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Pair with refreshing drinks like margaritas, horchata, or lime agua fresca for a fun dining experience.
Fun Facts About Burritos:
- In the United States, burritos became widely popular in the mid-20th century, especially in areas with large Mexican-American populations like California and Texas.
- The “Mission-style” burrito, famous for its large size and packed fillings, originated in San Francisco’s Mission District.
- Burritos are incredibly versatile—there are breakfast burritos, dessert burritos, and even sushi-style burritos inspired by international cuisines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas available in many grocery stores. - How can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Prepare and roll the burritos as instructed, then wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. - What’s the best way to reheat burritos?
For refrigerated burritos, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes. For frozen burritos, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Beef burritos are more than just a meal—they’re a fun, customizable, and hearty option that’s great for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual dinner with family, a meal-prep favorite for busy weekdays, or a star dish for Taco Tuesday, this recipe offers everything you need for a delicious and satisfying experience.
Conclusion
Beef burritos are a delicious and versatile dish, perfect for quick meals, meal prep, or casual gatherings. With their flavorful beef filling, fresh toppings, and melty cheese, they offer a satisfying balance of comfort and Tex-Mex flair. Easy to make and customize, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for any occasion. 🌯