Cheesy Beef Burritos are a quick and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor. With a savory beef filling, melted cheese, and a soft tortilla wrap, they’re the perfect comfort food! You can easily customize the fillings, and they’re great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Here’s how you can make them:
Cheesy Beef Burritos
Ingredients:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter version)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or use homemade seasoning: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt)
- 1/4 cup water (or beef broth for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for a heartier filling)
For Assembling the Burritos:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup refried beans (optional but adds a creamy texture)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Make the Beef Filling:
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Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
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Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
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Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix) and water. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the seasoning blends with the beef, and the mixture is slightly thickened. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
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Optional Add-ins: If you want a heartier filling, mix in the cooked rice and stir well.
2. Assemble the Burritos:
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Warm the Tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas on a dry skillet or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to soften them and make them easier to roll.
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Add the Filling: Lay the warm tortilla flat on a surface. Spoon some of the beef mixture down the center of the tortilla. If you’re using refried beans, spread a thin layer on top of the beef mixture.
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Add Cheese and Other Fillings: Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the beef and beans. If you’re adding sour cream and salsa, spread them on the tortilla as well.
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Roll the Burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly, ensuring the filling stays inside. If needed, use a toothpick to secure the end of the burrito.
3. Cook the Burritos (Optional but Recommended):
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Grill the Burritos: For an extra crispy finish, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the rolled burritos seam side down in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Remove from the pan and slice in half (if desired). Garnish with fresh cilantro or drizzle with more sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Veggies: For a fresher, lighter burrito, add sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the beef filling.
- Spicy Twist: If you like heat, add some jalapeños, chopped green chilies, or a bit of hot sauce to the filling.
- Make it Beefy: If you like a more substantial filling, add extra meat, or mix in shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Cheese Lovers: For extra gooeyness, melt a little cheese over the top of the burrito before serving.
- Meal Prep: These burritos store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze well for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
These Cheesy Beef Burritos are a satisfying, easy meal that everyone will love. They’re perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for meal prep when you want something quick and delicious!