If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, melty cheese, and perfectly seasoned beef, look no further than the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe. This favorite combines juicy, spiced ground beef with creamy refried beans and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, all wrapped up snugly in a soft flour tortilla. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of hearty texture and cheesy goodness, making it an unbeatable choice for a quick weeknight dinner or casual get-together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe truly shine. Each component is straightforward but plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the savory spices to the creamy cheeses, these ingredients come together in harmony to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
- 1 lb ground beef: Use lean or regular ground beef for juicy, flavorful filling that browns beautifully.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when softened with the garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic amps up the savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a warm, mild heat and classic burrito flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Provides earthiness that complements the beef perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note for extra dimension.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without making the dish salty.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle, spicy kick.
- ½ cup salsa: Injects a bright, tangy freshness that balances the richness.
- ½ cup refried beans: Creates a creamy texture and hearty element inside the burrito.
- ¼ cup water: Helps thin the bean and salsa mixture, perfect for simmering.
- 4 large flour tortillas: Soft and warm, ideal for wrapping and holding all those delicious fillings.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar adds a lovely gooey texture.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers smoothness and complements the cheddar’s flavor.
- ¼ cup sour cream (optional): Adds a cool, creamy contrast when serving.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional): Fresh herbaceousness to brighten every bite.
How to Make Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is crucial because browning develops rich, savory flavors. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the burritos from getting too oily.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. This soft base adds a mild sweetness and aromatic depth that will elevate the filling.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so the spices coat the beef and onions evenly. These spices give the burrito its signature flavor, layering warmth and a touch of smokiness.
Step 4: Combine Salsa, Refried Beans, and Water
Mix in the salsa, refried beans, and water, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This thickens the mixture as the beans melt into the salsa, creating a creamy, flavorful filling that binds everything together.
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
While the filling simmers, warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable. This makes rolling the burritos easier without tearing the tortillas.
Step 6: Assemble the Burritos
Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto each warm tortilla, then sprinkle with the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Roll the tortillas tightly to encase all the fillings, ensuring none of the delicious ingredients spill out.
Step 7: Toast the Burritos
Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and place the rolled burritos seam-side down. Toast each side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and the cheese inside melts perfectly. This step adds a delightful crunch to the outside while keeping the inside warm and gooey.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your freshly toasted burritos warm. Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if you like, for an extra layer of creaminess and fresh flavor that brightens the whole dish.
How to Serve Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your burritos with crisp garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños for heat, or a dash of freshly squeezed lime juice. A spoonful of sour cream or creamy guacamole works wonders to balance the spices and melt-in-your-mouth cheese.
Side Dishes
Round out your meal with classic sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn and black bean salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich burritos.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by turning this recipe into burrito bowls—just layer the beef and cheese mixture over rice and beans without the tortilla for a lighter take. You can also wrap smaller tortillas for bite-sized mini burritos, perfect for parties or snack time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal that still tastes amazing.
Freezing
For longer storage, burritos freeze beautifully. Wrap each one securely in foil and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the burrito and heat it in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through and crispy on the outside. Alternatively, microwave it covered for 1-2 minutes, but finishing in a skillet can help bring back that toasty exterior.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Monterey Jack offer a perfect melt and flavor combo, you can experiment with pepper jack for some heat or a more neutral cheese like mozzarella if you prefer. Just choose something that melts well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, definitely! Swap out the ground beef for cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Keep all the spices and beans for that same hearty, comforting taste.
What kind of salsa works best in this recipe?
A mild to medium salsa is ideal to complement but not overpower the other flavors. You can use store-bought or homemade salsa, just make sure it’s not too watery, so the filling doesn’t become soggy.
Can I make these burritos ahead of time for a crowd?
For sure! Assemble the burritos and then store them in the fridge before toasting. When ready to serve, toast them in a pan or oven to warm through and get that lovely crispy crust.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe has a mild to moderate spice level. If you prefer it spicier, add some chopped fresh jalapeños or more chili powder. Conversely, reduce the chili powder for a gentler flavor perfect for kids or sensitive palates.
Final Thoughts
Making the Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe might just become your new favorite kitchen adventure. It’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and utterly satisfying every single time. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, these burritos bring the warm, comforting taste everyone loves. Give it a try and get ready to savor a truly unforgettable meal that’s bound to earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
Print
Best Beef and Cheese Burrito Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Best Beef and Cheese Burrito recipe features a flavorful ground beef mixture seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, combined with refried beans and salsa for a rich, hearty filling. Wrapped in warm flour tortillas and toasted to a perfect golden brown, these burritos are topped with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup salsa
- ½ cup refried beans
- ¼ cup water
Burrito Assembly
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional Toppings
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it is browned all over. Drain any excess grease to keep the burritos from being too oily.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant, blending their flavors with the beef.
- Add spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper thoroughly to evenly season the meat mixture.
- Simmer with salsa and beans: Mix in the salsa, refried beans, and water. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Warm tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave just until they are flexible and easy to roll without tearing.
- Assemble burritos: Spoon a generous portion of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, then roll each tortilla tightly to encase the filling.
- Toast burritos: Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and place each burrito seam side down. Toast for 1-2 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden and the cheese inside has melted.
- Serve: Serve the burritos warm, topped with sour cream and chopped cilantro if desired for added freshness and creaminess.
Notes
- You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding chopped jalapenos.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat.
- To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
- The burritos can be assembled ahead and refrigerated, then toasted just before serving for convenience.
- If you prefer a saucier filling, add a bit more salsa or water while simmering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
