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Beef and Black Bean Burritos

Beef and Black Bean Burritos

A hearty and satisfying dish combining seasoned ground beef, tender black beans, and melted cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings, these burritos are customizable, easy to make, and packed with flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Dishes
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 burritos
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet For cooking beef and warming beans.
  • 1 Wooden Spoon For breaking apart ground beef and stirring ingredients.
  • Optional Tongs For handling tortillas during assembly.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground beef Leaner cuts reduce grease; use turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 can Black beans (15 oz) Rinsed and drained for reduced salt.
  • 1 cup Cooked rice Cilantro lime rice adds extra flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded cheese Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Mexican blend.
  • 4–6 large Flour tortillas (10–12 inch) Warmed slightly for flexibility.
  • 1 small Onion (finely chopped) Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Enhances savory flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste Thickens the beef mixture and adds richness.
  • 1 tsp Cumin Essential for Tex-Mex flavor.
  • 1 tsp Chili powder Adjust for spice preference.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika adds depth.
  • To taste tsp Salt Adjust based on preference.
  • To taste tsp Black pepper Freshly ground for better flavor.

Optional Toppings

  • ½ cup Salsa or pico de gallo for freshness. Optional
  • ¼ cup Sour cream or Mexican crema for creaminess. Optional
  • 1 lime Cut into wedges for serving. Optional
  • ½ cup Guacamole for added richness. Optional

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Beef Filling:

    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.
    • Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.

    Cook the Black Beans:

    • In a separate skillet, warm rinsed and drained black beans with a drizzle of oil and a pinch of cumin or chili powder. Heat gently to avoid breaking down the beans.

    Warm the Tortillas:

    • Warm flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 10–15 seconds to make them pliable.

    Assemble the Burritos:

    • Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Layer with seasoned beef, black beans, cooked rice, and shredded cheese. Add optional toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or corn.
    • Fold the bottom edge up, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly to seal.

    Serve or Store:

    • Serve immediately with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or lime wedges on the side. Alternatively, wrap burritos in foil for storage or freezing.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
      • Freezing: Wrap burritos tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 400°F for 40–45 minutes.
      • Variations: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter option. Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or corn for extra nutrition.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What ingredients are needed for a traditional beef and black bean burrito?
      • Ground beef, black beans, onions, garlic, shredded cheese, large flour tortillas, cilantro, lime juice, and spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
       
    2. How can I make a quick and easy beef and black bean burrito at home?
      • Cook seasoned ground beef with onions, garlic, and spices. Add black beans and a small amount of broth or tomato paste. Spoon into warm tortillas, top with cheese, and roll tightly.
       
    3. What are the best spices to use when making beef and black bean burritos?
      • Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add cayenne or jalapeño for extra heat.
       
    4. How do you properly wrap a beef and black bean burrito to prevent it from falling apart?
      • Place filling in the lower third of the tortilla, fold in the sides, and roll tightly while tucking the filling in firmly. Avoid overfilling.
     
    1. What are some healthy variations of beef and black bean burritos?
      • Use lean ground turkey or chicken, add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, and swap whole wheat tortillas and reduced-fat cheese.
       
    2. Can beef and black bean burritos be made in advance and frozen for later use?
      • Yes, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of lime juice to the beef mixture or beans for brightness. Toast tortillas lightly for extra flavor.
    • Presentation: Serve burritos with colorful toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream for visual appeal.
    • Leftovers: Transform leftover burritos into a breakfast hash by chopping and frying with eggs.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle shredded cheese, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream on top. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.
    • Serving Style: Plate burritos alongside bowls of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping. Add a side of Mexican rice or roasted corn for a complete meal.
    • Sides: Pair with chips and queso, a small salad, or roasted vegetables for balance.
    Keyword Beef Burritos, Healthy Meal Prep, Meal Prep