Beef Burritos

Named for the Spanish word meaning little donkey, burritos grew popular in northern Mexico as portable, hearty meals. This version wraps seasoned ground beef, rice, and black beans in a warm flour tortilla with melted cheese.

Serves 4

Estimate for one serving

• 720 cal
• 38g protein
• 68g carbs
• 32g fat
• 8g fiber

Every recipe here is free to read.

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch)
• 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean)
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1.5 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 medium yellow onion (finely diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1.5 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.33 cup water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
• 0.5 cup salsa (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. 1Prepare all ingredients: dice the onion, mince the garlic, drain and rinse the black beans, and chop cilantro if using. Warm the cooked rice if cold.
2. 2Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil.
3. 3Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. 4Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. 5Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
6. 6Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
7. 7Pour in the water and stir. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the liquid reduces and the beef is well seasoned. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro if desired.
8. 8Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds until pliable.
9. 9Assemble each burrito: Lay a tortilla flat. Spoon rice down the center, followed by black beans, one-quarter of the seasoned beef, and shredded cheese.
10. 10Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. Repeat for all four.
11. 11For a toasted finish (optional but recommended), heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Place burritos seam-side down and cook 2 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted inside.
12. 12Serve warm with salsa on the side if desired.