We’ve all been there – standing in front of the fridge wondering how to turn simple ingredients into something absolutely delicious. That’s exactly how we discovered this incredible bean beef burrito recipe that transforms everyday pantry staples into a flavor-packed meal your whole family will crave.
Beef and bean burritos offer the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and bold Mexican-inspired flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla. What makes this recipe special isn’t just how easy it is to make – it’s how customizable and budget-friendly it becomes when you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
We love how this dish brings together tender seasoned ground beef with creamy refried beans, creating that satisfying texture contrast that makes every bite irresistible. Plus, you can have these homemade burritos ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you want something hearty and homemade without the hassle.
Ingredients
These simple ingredients come together to create our delicious bean beef burrito. We organize them by preparation stage to streamline your cooking process.
For the Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bean Mixture
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
For Assembly
- 8 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 2 cups Mexican cheese blend, shredded
- 1 cup cooked Spanish rice
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh salsa
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Equipment Needed
Creating these delicious bean beef burritos requires minimal kitchen equipment that most home cooks already have on hand. We’ve organized the essential tools to help you prepare this satisfying meal efficiently.
Large nonstick skillet or frying pan serves as our primary cooking vessel for browning the ground beef and building the flavorful filling. The nonstick surface prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless after cooking.
Medium saucepan becomes necessary if you plan to prepare Spanish rice alongside your burritos. This versatile pot allows you to cook rice with chicken broth and garlic for enhanced flavor.
Mixing spoon or spatula helps us stir ingredients together and break up the ground beef as it cooks. A wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula works perfectly for this task.
Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy when adding spices and liquids to our beef and bean mixture. Precise measurements create consistent flavor in every batch.
Sharp knife and cutting board allow us to properly dice onions and mince garlic for the filling. Fresh aromatics significantly enhance the overall taste of our burritos.
Box grater makes quick work of shredding cheese if you prefer using block cheese over pre-shredded varieties. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and provides better flavor.
Large mixing bowl provides space for combining ingredients or holding prepared components during assembly. This keeps our workspace organized and efficient.
Burrito assembly area can be any clean countertop or large plate where we can spread tortillas and add fillings. Having dedicated space streamlines the wrapping process.
Aluminum foil or plastic wrap preserves assembled burritos for storage or meal prep purposes. Proper wrapping maintains freshness and prevents the tortillas from drying out.
Instructions
Let’s walk through each step to create our perfectly seasoned bean beef burritos that deliver maximum flavor in every bite.
Prep the Beef
We start by heating a large nonstick skillet over medium high heat until it’s properly warmed. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the hot pan and break it apart using our spatula as it cooks. The beef needs about 5 minutes of constant stirring to achieve an even browning throughout. Once the meat turns completely brown we drain the excess fat but leave 2-3 tablespoons in the pan for enhanced flavor.
Next we add our diced onion along with 1 teaspoon each of cumin, paprika, and chili powder to the beef. The aromatics cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and releases its natural sweetness. We then stir in our can of Rotel tomatoes with all their juices plus one can of pinto or black beans including the liquid. The mixture simmers on medium low heat for 8-10 minutes while we stir occasionally until the tomatoes break down and most liquid evaporates. Finally we season with salt and pepper to taste before turning off the heat.
Cook the Beans
For those using dry beans we recommend soaking them overnight then boiling until tender before incorporating into our beef mixture. This process ensures the beans achieve the perfect creamy texture that complements our seasoned meat.
Canned beans offer a convenient alternative that works equally well in our recipe. We simply drain and rinse the beans thoroughly before adding them directly to our beef mixture as outlined in the previous step. The key lies in allowing the beans to simmer with the beef long enough to absorb all those delicious spices and flavors.
Prepare the Vegetables
Fresh vegetables bring brightness and crunch to our hearty burritos so we dice tomatoes, onions, and lettuce into uniform pieces. Each vegetable should be cut small enough to distribute evenly throughout our burrito filling. We also grate our cheese using a box grater to ensure it melts smoothly when we assemble our burritos.
Optional corn adds sweetness and texture while fresh cilantro provides an aromatic finish. Green onions contribute a mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully with our spiced beef mixture. We prepare all vegetables ahead of time to streamline our assembly process.
Warm the Tortillas
Large flour tortillas need gentle warming to become pliable and prevent tearing during assembly. We heat each tortilla in a dry skillet over medium heat for approximately 30 seconds per side until they become soft and flexible. The tortillas should feel warm to the touch and bend easily without cracking.
Stack our warmed tortillas on a clean plate and cover with a kitchen towel to maintain their temperature and moisture. This simple step makes rolling our burritos much easier and prevents the frustrating tears that can occur with cold tortillas.
Directions for Assembly
With our perfectly seasoned beef filling and warmed tortillas ready, we’re now ready to assemble these delicious burritos. The key to successful burrito assembly lies in proper layering and rolling technique to prevent messy spillage.
Layer the Fillings
We begin by warming our burrito-size flour tortillas slightly to make them pliable, heating them for about 15-20 seconds in the microwave. Lay each tortilla flat on our clean work surface and spread approximately 3 tablespoons of the seasoned beef mixture in the center, creating a horizontal line across the middle third of the tortilla.
Next, we add about ¼ cup of our warmed refried beans directly on top of the beef mixture. The beans act as a binding agent that helps hold all ingredients together during rolling. We then sprinkle our diced red and green peppers over the filling for added crunch and color.
Finally, we top the filling with shredded cheese, allowing it to melt slightly from the warmth of the beef mixture. Optional toppings like lettuce, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream can be added at this stage, but we recommend keeping the total filling to about ½ cup to ensure easy rolling.
Roll the Burritos
We start the rolling process by folding in the left and right edges of the tortilla over the filling, creating neat side seams. These folded edges should overlap the filling by about an inch on each side to prevent ingredients from escaping.
Starting from the bottom edge closest to us, we tightly roll the tortilla away from ourselves, applying gentle but firm pressure to create a compact cylinder. The key is maintaining consistent tension throughout the rolling process to ensure our burrito holds its shape.
We continue rolling until we reach the opposite edge, then place the completed burrito seam side down to help it maintain its shape. For meal prep purposes, we can wrap each burrito individually in aluminum foil at this stage for easy freezing or reheating later.
Seal and Serve
To achieve that perfect crispy exterior and sealed seam, we heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat without adding oil. We place our burritos seam side down in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom develops a golden brown color.
Carefully flip each burrito using tongs and cook the opposite side for another 2-3 minutes. This sealing process creates a crispy shell that locks in all the flavors while preventing the filling from leaking out during eating.
We serve our bean beef burritos immediately while they’re hot and crispy, accompanied by our favorite toppings arranged in small bowls. Popular serving options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, fresh salsa, green onions, and hot sauce, allowing everyone to customize their burrito according to their taste preferences.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love how these bean beef burritos transform into convenient make-ahead meals that save time during busy weeknights. Preparing components in advance streamlines our cooking process and ensures we always have delicious meals ready to enjoy.
Preparing the Filling Components
The beef and bean filling stores beautifully in our refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container. We recommend allowing the mixture to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation buildup. When reheating the filling, we add a splash of water or beef broth to restore moisture and prevent the mixture from drying out during the warming process.
Assembly Strategies
Two distinct approaches work well for our make-ahead burrito preparation:
| Assembly Method | Storage Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Fully assembled burritos | Up to 3 days refrigerated | Quick grab-and-go meals |
| Separate components | Up to 3 days each | Custom assembly preferences |
Fully assembled burritos require tight wrapping in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent the tortillas from drying out. We place assembled burritos seam-side down in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and prevent unwrapping.
Freezer Storage Answers
Our bean beef burritos freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months when properly wrapped. We wrap each burrito individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in freezer-safe bags for extra protection against freezer burn. Labeling each package with the preparation date helps us track freshness.
Before wrapping tortillas for freezing, we lightly dampen paper towels and microwave them with the tortillas for about 1 minute. This technique keeps the tortillas pliable and prevents cracking during the wrapping process.
Reheating Techniques
Frozen burritos reheat directly from the freezer without thawing. We microwave wrapped burritos on medium power, turning them halfway through the heating process to ensure even warming throughout. For crispy exteriors, we finish frozen burritos in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side after microwaving.
Refrigerated burritos heat quickly in a non-stick skillet placed seam-side down first. This method creates golden, crispy surfaces while warming the filling completely. We cook each side for 2-3 minutes over medium heat for optimal results.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving these hearty bean beef burritos with a variety of fresh accompaniments that enhance their rich flavors. Sour cream provides a cooling contrast to the seasoned beef while guacamole adds creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the refried beans. Greek yogurt offers a lighter alternative that still delivers the same tangy complement to the savory filling.
Fresh sides elevate each bite with vibrant textures and flavors. Shredded lettuce brings a satisfying crunch that balances the soft tortilla wrapper. Chopped tomatoes add juicy brightness while diced jalapeños contribute a spicy kick for those who enjoy extra heat. Black olives provide a briny element that rounds out the Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
Zesty salsas transform these burritos into a complete dining experience. We suggest offering both mild and hot varieties to accommodate different spice preferences. Hot chili sauces allow guests to customize their heat level while adding depth to every bite.
Hearty sides make this meal even more satisfying for hungry families. Spanish rice serves as an excellent base that soaks up any delicious juices from the burrito filling. Corn on the cob brings natural sweetness that complements the savory beef and bean combination perfectly.
| Serving Option | Purpose | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Sour cream/Greek yogurt | Cooling contrast | Tangy and creamy |
| Guacamole | Rich complement | Smooth and buttery |
| Fresh salsa varieties | Flavor enhancement | Zesty and bright |
| Hot chili sauces | Heat customization | Spicy and bold |
| Spanish rice | Hearty base | Savory and filling |
| Corn on the cob | Sweet balance | Natural and fresh |
We find that arranging these accompaniments in small bowls allows everyone to build their perfect bite. This customizable approach ensures each family member can enjoy their bean beef burrito exactly how they prefer it while creating an interactive dining experience that brings everyone together around the table.
Storage Instructions
Our bean beef burritos store exceptionally well when wrapped and handled properly. We recommend storing freshly made burritos in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent the tortillas from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage
We can safely store our wrapped burritos in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. The key to maintaining freshness lies in proper wrapping technique that prevents air exposure. We always ensure each burrito gets wrapped individually to preserve its shape and prevent the filling from leaking.
Freezer Storage
For longer storage periods, we freeze our burritos by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in freezer-safe bags. Our frozen burritos maintain their quality for up to 3 months when stored this way. We find that securing each burrito with tight wrapping helps maintain both shape and freshness during the freezing process.
| Storage Method | Duration | Wrapping Required |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 3-5 days | Plastic wrap or foil |
| Frozen | Up to 3 months | Individual wrap + freezer bags |
Reheating Methods
We have several effective methods for reheating our stored burritos. From the refrigerator, we reheat burritos in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven, or using an air fryer until they’re heated thoroughly and achieve a crispy exterior.
For frozen burritos, we air fry them wrapped in foil for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking process. Alternatively, we microwave frozen burritos on defrost setting for 7 to 9 minutes, then crisp them in a skillet for the perfect texture combination.
We also bake frozen burritos at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes while wrapped in foil for even heating throughout. Since appliance temperatures vary, we adjust cooking times as needed to prevent overcooking or drying out our carefully crafted burritos.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how this bean beef burrito recipe delivers everything you want in a weeknight meal – it’s quick affordable and incredibly satisfying. The combination of seasoned ground beef and creamy refried beans creates the perfect protein-packed foundation that’ll keep your family coming back for more.
What makes this recipe truly special is its flexibility. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or feeding a hungry crowd tonight these burritos adapt to your needs effortlessly. The make-ahead options mean you can enjoy homemade burritos even on your busiest days.
With proper storage techniques and endless customization possibilities you now have a go-to recipe that’ll become a staple in your kitchen. These hearty burritos prove that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors when prepared with the right techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make bean beef burritos?
Bean beef burritos can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The quick cooking time includes browning the ground beef, preparing the bean mixture, and assembling the burritos. This efficient timeline makes the recipe ideal for last-minute meal planning.
Can I make bean beef burritos ahead of time?
Yes, bean beef burritos are excellent for meal prep. You can store the beef and bean filling in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or prepare fully assembled burritos and freeze them for up to 3 months. This makes them perfect for busy schedules and batch cooking.
What ingredients do I need for bean beef burritos?
Essential ingredients include ground beef, refried beans, large flour tortillas, taco seasoning, diced onions, garlic, and shredded Mexican cheese. Additional ingredients like Spanish rice, sour cream, fresh salsa, and cilantro enhance the flavor and texture of your burritos.
How do I store leftover bean beef burritos?
Wrap burritos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for 3-5 days. For longer storage, individually wrap them and place in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Proper wrapping prevents moisture loss and maintains freshness.
What’s the best way to reheat bean beef burritos?
For refrigerated burritos, use a skillet, oven, or air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior. Frozen burritos should be thawed first or heated directly from frozen using lower temperatures. This ensures thorough heating while maintaining the desired texture and preventing sogginess.
Are bean beef burritos healthy?
Bean beef burritos provide a balanced combination of protein from ground beef and fiber from refried beans. They offer essential nutrients and can be customized with fresh vegetables, making them a nutritious meal option that supports a well-rounded diet when prepared with quality ingredients.
Can I customize bean beef burritos?
Absolutely! Bean beef burritos are highly customizable. You can adjust seasonings, add fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes, choose different types of cheese, or include various salsas and sauces. This flexibility allows you to cater to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
What kitchen equipment do I need to make bean beef burritos?
You’ll need basic kitchen tools including a large nonstick skillet, medium saucepan, mixing spoons, measuring cups, a sharp knife, cutting board, and box grater. A large mixing bowl helps with organization, and aluminum foil or plastic wrap is needed for storage.
