Craving a quick and tasty meal? These beef burritos are just what you need! Filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings like sour cream and salsa, they’re a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting a casual get-together, these burritos are easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Why We Love This beef burritos
Beef burritos are a perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. This recipe takes just a few basic ingredients and turns them into something that feels special. Whether you’re feeding your family after a long day or prepping for a fun weekend gathering, these burritos are a hit every time.
- Quick & Easy: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something hearty but don’t have much time to spare.
- Customizable: One of the best things about beef burritos is how easily you can make them your own. Feel free to add in your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or a spicy salsa. You can even swap the ground beef for chicken or another protein for a twist on the classic.
- Flavorful & Satisfying: The combination of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and soft tortillas is irresistible. It’s a meal that’s both filling and full of flavor. Plus, the Mexican spices used here bring just the right balance of heat and depth.
- Family-Friendly: If you’re looking for a meal that pleases everyone, this is it. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the simple, tasty flavors. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in bulk, making it ideal for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients for beef burritos
These beef burritos come together with just a few simple ingredients, making them a perfect go-to meal for busy days. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Ground beef – Key to beef burritos. Use 80/20 for juicy, flavorful filling. Lean beef works, but may be drier.
Olive oil – Helps cook the beef and adds richness. Can use vegetable oil if needed.
Onion – Chopped onion adds depth and mild sweetness to the beef burrito filling.
Garlic – Fresh garlic gives a bold, savory flavor. Use fresh for the best taste.
Taco seasoning – Gives beef burritos their classic, spiced flavor. Store-bought or homemade both work.
Water – Helps mix the seasoning into the beef and keeps it moist.
Flour tortillas – Soft, large tortillas are best for wrapping beef burritos without tearing.
Cheddar cheese – Melts into the beef for a creamy, cheesy bite. Freshly shredded melts best.
Sour cream – Cools down the spices and adds a creamy touch.
Salsa – Adds tomato flavor and a bit of heat. Choose mild or spicy.
Guacamole – Optional, but adds creamy freshness to beef burritos.
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to put everything together. Follow these simple steps for delicious beef burritos that everyone will love.
Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain the fat.
Add the Seasoning
Stir in chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add taco seasoning and water. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors blend.
Warm the Tortillas
While the beef simmers, warm flour tortillas in a dry pan or microwave for 15–20 seconds until soft.
Assemble the Burritos
Lay each tortilla flat. Add beef, then top with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and salsa or guacamole.
Wrap It Up
Fold in the sides and roll up from the bottom to seal. Repeat for all burritos.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm. Cut in half or leave whole. Add extra toppings if you like.
Pro Tips
Making beef burritos is easy, but a few small tricks can take them from good to unforgettable. These tips help you boost flavor, improve texture, and simplify the cooking process.
Use freshly grated cheese
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese gives you better melt and richer flavor.
Let the beef mixture rest
After cooking, let the seasoned ground beef sit for a couple of minutes before assembling. This helps the flavors settle and keeps the tortillas from getting soggy.
Warm tortillas before filling
Always heat your flour tortillas before wrapping. A quick warm-up in the microwave or skillet keeps them soft and pliable, making rolling easier and preventing cracks.
Don’t overfill
It’s tempting to load them up, but too much filling makes burritos hard to roll and messy to eat. Stick to a moderate amount—just enough for a hearty bite without spillage.
Seal with a quick toast
Want a burrito that holds together better and has a little crunch? After rolling, place it seam-side down on a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes. This gives you a light toast and helps seal the wrap.
Make ahead & freeze
These burritos are freezer-friendly! Wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a fast, homemade meal anytime.
Variations
One of the best things about beef burritos is how easy they are to customize. Whether you’re switching things up for dietary needs or just keeping it interesting, these ideas will help you create your own delicious spin on the classic.
Add beans for extra protein
Stir in black beans or pinto beans with the beef for a heartier filling. They’re budget-friendly, protein-packed, and add a satisfying texture.
Swap the protein
Not in the mood for beef? Try shredded chicken, turkey, or even seasoned tofu. The seasoning blend works beautifully with different proteins.
Make it spicy
Add chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a little extra heat.
Go low-carb
Skip the tortilla and make a beef burrito bowl instead. Layer the seasoned beef over rice or greens, then pile on your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions for Beef Burritos
A warm, flavorful beef burrito is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and toppings turns dinner into a full experience. Whether you’re going casual or dressing it up for guests, here’s how to round out your plate:
Classic Sides
Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice gives your burrito a balanced, savory side.
A scoop of refried beans or black beans adds creaminess and depth.
Tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole bring a fun crunch and extra flavor.
Fresh Toppings
Add a spoonful of fresh pico de gallo for brightness.
A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of crema cools down any heat.
Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for color and freshness.
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FAQs
Can I make beef burritos ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prep and roll your burritos in advance, then wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What’s the best cut of beef for burritos?
Ground beef is a go-to for ease and flavor, but if you want something extra, try shredded chuck roast or skirt steak for a more textured, juicy filling. Just be sure to season it well so it blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
How do I keep beef burritos from getting soggy?
Avoid overfilling and make sure the filling isn’t too wet. Let the cooked beef mixture cool slightly before wrapping, and layer with cheese or rice first to help absorb any extra moisture.
Are beef burritos spicy?
That’s up to you! The base recipe is flavorful but mild. You can dial up the heat with jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa, or keep it kid-friendly by leaving those out.
What’s the best way to reheat a burrito without drying it out?
Wrap your burrito in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes. For a crispier exterior, remove the foil halfway through. You can also reheat in the microwave—just cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
beef burritos
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup guacamole
Instructions
Cook the Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Add the Seasoning
- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in the water. Stir everything together until the beef is well-coated with the seasoning. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld together.
Prepare the Tortillas
- While the beef mixture is simmering, warm your flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for about 15-20 seconds until soft and pliable. This makes them easier to roll and adds a nice warmth to the burritos.
Assemble the Burritos
- Once your tortillas are warmed, place them on a flat surface. Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned beef mixture into the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a spoonful of salsa or guacamole if desired.
Wrap It Up
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, securing the filling inside. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Serve & Enjoy
- Slice the burritos in half if you prefer smaller portions or serve them whole. Enjoy your beef burritos immediately with extra salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side!