The magic of a great burrito is in the perfect balance of flavors, and this Beef and Cheese Burrito delivers just that! Tender, seasoned beef, wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, paired with the creamy goodness of melted cheese—it’s a comforting, satisfying meal for any time of day. Whether you love a little spice or prefer to keep it mild, this recipe is easily customizable with your favorite toppings and add-ins. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, these burritos are quick to make yet packed with rich, bold flavors. Serve them with a side of guacamole, salsa, or a drizzle of sour cream for an extra layer of deliciousness. Enjoy them fresh off the skillet or freeze them for a ready-to-go meal anytime!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup refried beans (optional)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup salsa (for serving)
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the beef.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable.
- Spread a layer of refried beans onto each tortilla (if using), then add a generous scoop of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to form a burrito.
- Place the burritos seam-side down in a heated skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve warm with sour cream, fresh cilantro, and salsa on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to the Beef and Cheese Burrito
The Beef and Cheese Burrito is a beloved dish that brings together rich, savory flavors in a warm, soft tortilla. Originating from Mexican cuisine, burritos have gained worldwide popularity due to their convenience, versatility, and delicious taste. This particular recipe is the perfect combination of seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and a soft flour tortilla, making it an irresistible meal for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a filling lunch, or a meal-prep-friendly option, this beef and cheese burrito is a go-to recipe. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized with various ingredients to suit different taste preferences. This dish is perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks who want to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The History of Burritos
The word “burrito” means “little donkey” in Spanish, but its origin in relation to the food remains uncertain. Some theories suggest that the burrito was named after the way it was traditionally wrapped, resembling a donkey’s saddlebag. Others believe it may have originated from food vendors in Mexico, who wrapped tortillas around meat and beans to create a portable, filling meal for travelers and workers. Burritos are an integral part of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, with variations found across different regions. In northern Mexico, burritos tend to be simple, often containing just meat, cheese, and beans. In the United States, especially in California and Texas, burritos have evolved into large, fully stuffed meals with rice, guacamole, sour cream, and various fillings. This beef and cheese burrito recipe sticks to the basics—flavorful, seasoned beef paired with melted cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a must-have for any home cook.
Why This Beef and Cheese Burrito is the Best
Many burrito recipes exist, but this one stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors, simplicity, and ease of preparation. Here’s why this recipe is the best:
- Bold and Savory Flavor: The combination of ground beef, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic creates a well-seasoned, slightly spicy meat filling.
- Cheesy Goodness: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully inside the burrito, adding creaminess and richness.
- Quick and Easy: This burrito takes just 25 minutes to make from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding beans, rice, vegetables, or different cheeses to match your personal taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These burritos can be made in advance, stored in the fridge or freezer, and reheated whenever needed.
- Crispy Option Available: If you prefer a crispier burrito, simply sear it on a skillet for a golden brown, crunchy texture.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy and mildly seasoned filling makes it a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
While burritos are often considered indulgent comfort food, this recipe can actually be part of a balanced diet when prepared mindfully. Here are some benefits:
1. Protein-Packed Meal
Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which helps with muscle growth and keeps you feeling full longer. The cheese also adds a good amount of protein, making this meal satisfying and nourishing.
2. Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates
Flour tortillas provide carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. If you prefer a healthier version, opt for whole wheat tortillas for added fiber and nutrients.
3. Essential Vitamins and Minerals
- Iron: Found in beef, iron helps transport oxygen throughout the body.
- Calcium: Cheese is a great source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- B Vitamins: Beef contains B vitamins, which support energy production and brain function.
4. Can Be Made Healthier
For a lighter version:
- Use lean ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken).
- Opt for reduced-fat cheese or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
How to Serve This Burrito
This beef and cheese burrito is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with different toppings and sides. Here are some serving ideas:
Toppings
- Guacamole: Adds creaminess and a dose of healthy fats.
- Salsa: Fresh tomato salsa or spicy salsa verde enhances the flavors.
- Sour Cream: A classic addition that balances the heat from the spices.
- Cilantro and Lime: Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime juice bring brightness to the dish.
Side Dishes
- Mexican Rice: A traditional side that complements the burrito perfectly.
- Refried Beans: Adds extra protein and fiber to your meal.
- Tortilla Chips and Queso Dip: A crunchy, cheesy snack to enjoy on the side.
- Grilled Vegetables: A healthy side that adds color and nutrition.
How to Store and Reheat Burritos
One of the best things about this burrito recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch in advance and store them for later.
Storing
- Refrigerator: Store wrapped burritos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap each burrito in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a ziplock bag. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating
- Microwave: Remove foil, wrap in a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Skillet: Heat on medium until crispy and warm inside, about 5 minutes.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best aspects of burritos is that they are highly customizable. Here are some delicious variations:
1. Spicy Kick
If you love heat, add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
2. Bean and Rice Addition
For extra heartiness, add black beans, pinto beans, or Spanish rice to the filling.
3. Vegetarian Version
Replace beef with grilled mushrooms, sautéed peppers, or plant-based meat alternatives.
4. Breakfast Burrito
Swap out beef for scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and hash browns for a breakfast-friendly burrito.
5. Low-Carb Option
Use a lettuce wrap instead of a flour tortilla for a keto-friendly version.
Conclusion
This Beef and Cheese Burrito is the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and convenience. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal, prepping for the week ahead, or serving a crowd, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. It’s packed with protein, cheesy goodness, and just the right amount of spice. The best part? You can personalize this burrito to your liking, whether by adding more heat, stuffing it with extra fillings, or making a crispy, golden-brown version on the skillet. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and enjoy a homemade beef and cheese burrito that’s even better than restaurant-style burritos!