Uncover the secret to incredibly easy and flavorful Bean Burritos! This recipe guides you through creating deliciously creamy refried beans, expertly seasoned and perfectly complemented by a rich red enchilada sauce and generous layers of melted cheddar. All these incredible flavors are nestled within a soft flour tortilla, then baked until golden and wonderfully crispy. Prepare to customize your burritos with a vibrant array of your favorite toppings for a truly satisfying and memorable meal.
Effortlessly Delicious: Your Go-To Quick Bean Burrito Recipe
Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together in a flash? Look no further than these incredibly quick and easy Bean and Cheese Burritos! This recipe isn’t just about speed; it’s about delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a spontaneous comfort food craving. Forget bland, store-bought options; these homemade burritos elevate a classic dish with a few simple steps and fresh ingredients.
This beloved recipe hails from my childhood, a cherished family favorite passed down through generations. My mom always had a knack for creating meals that were both comforting and convenient, and these bean burritos were a regular star on our dinner table, alongside other staples like her famous Tortilla Pie and a fantastic version of Vegetarian Nachos. The sheer simplicity and incredible taste made them an instant hit, and the tradition continues to this day.
What truly sets these burritos apart for me is the joyous freedom of customization. I’ve always been enthusiastic about toppings and sauces, turning each meal into a delightful culinary adventure. Growing up, the fridge became my personal treasure trove, overflowing with possibilities. Whether it was a dollop of creamy guacamole, a generous swirl of sour cream, or a vibrant spoonful of fresh salsa, every addition transformed the burrito into a unique masterpiece. This recipe encourages you to explore your own preferences, making each bite truly yours.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Easy Bean Burritos
Beyond their nostalgic charm, these bean and cheese burritos offer a multitude of reasons to become a regular in your meal rotation:
- Lightning Fast & Simple: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and another 15 minutes in the oven, you can have a warm, delicious meal on the table in about half an hour. Perfect for those busy evenings when time is precious.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with staple pantry ingredients like refried beans, tortillas, and cheese, this recipe is incredibly economical, offering a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
- Vegetarian Delight: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber from the refried beans, these burritos are a fantastic vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satiety.
- Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved: The mild, creamy flavors are a hit with children and adults alike. It’s an excellent way to get a wholesome meal into even the pickiest eaters, especially when they get to choose their own toppings!
- Customization King: From adjusting the spice level to adding your favorite protein or a variety of fresh vegetables, these burritos are a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Easily made ahead of time and reheated, they are ideal for lunches on the go or quick dinners throughout the week.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy burrito. This recipe delivers that cozy, satisfying feeling with every bite.
Essential Bean Burrito Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
Crafting the perfect bean burrito begins with a selection of quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the robust and comforting flavor profile that makes these burritos so irresistible. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing, olive oil is crucial for gently toasting our spices. This process, known as blooming, significantly enhances their aroma and depth of flavor, ensuring your bean filling is anything but bland.
- Fresh Spices: The heart of our flavor. For the best possible taste, always ensure your chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and garlic powder are fresh. Stale spices lose their potency, resulting in a less vibrant dish. Feel free to adjust quantities to your personal preference, adding a touch more heat with a pinch of cayenne if desired.
- Refried Beans: The star of the show! The quality of your refried beans makes a huge difference. Opt for a brand you consistently enjoy for its creamy texture and authentic flavor. Alternatively, for an even fresher taste, consider making your own Pinto Beans from scratch and mashing them into a smooth, refried consistency.
- Chicken Broth: Used to achieve the perfect creamy consistency for our bean filling. A little liquid helps the beans become smooth and spreadable. For those seeking a plant-based option, vegetable broth works just as effectively, ensuring the recipe remains vegetarian-friendly.
- Flour Tortillas: The foundation of your burrito. Look for large, soft, and flexible flour tortillas (typically 10-inch) that can easily be rolled without tearing. Freshness is key here, as supple tortillas make for much easier wrapping and a more enjoyable eating experience.
- Red Enchilada Sauce: This ingredient is a game-changer, infusing the burritos with a rich, savory, and slightly tangy kick. Be aware that flavor and heat levels can vary significantly between brands. I highly recommend Old El Paso® mild red enchilada sauce for its balanced profile, but always taste test your chosen brand to ensure it aligns with your preference for spice.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Providing that irresistible gooey, salty, and sharp tang, cheddar cheese is essential. Sharp cheddar is particularly recommended due to its age, which imparts a deeper, more robust flavor that truly stands out. Feel free to experiment by mixing in some Monterey Jack for an extra melty and mild contrast.
Quick Tip: The Power of Sharp Cheddar
When it comes to cheesy dishes, sharp Cheddar is often your best bet. Its distinct, robust flavor comes from its aging process, providing a rich, deep taste that milder cheeses simply can’t match. If you find your cheesy dishes taste bland, it might be due to using an under-aged cheese. A little extra salt can also help to boost the overall flavor profile and bring out the cheese’s natural deliciousness.
Mastering Homemade Bean Burritos: Essential Tips for Success
Making delicious homemade bean burritos is simpler than you might think, and with a few key tips, you’ll be rolling perfect, crispy masterpieces every time. Follow these expert suggestions to elevate your burrito game:
- Amplify the Heat: If you love a spicy kick, don’t hesitate to customize your bean mixture. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can dramatically increase the warmth and complexity of the filling. Add it gradually and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
- Achieve a Crispy Exterior with Cooking Spray: For that coveted golden-brown and slightly crispy tortilla, a generous spray of cooking oil before baking is non-negotiable. This step helps the tortilla achieve a beautiful texture, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your burrito. Don’t skimp!
- Perfect Your Rolling Technique: A well-rolled burrito keeps all its delicious fillings securely inside. Start by folding in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom (the edge closest to you) upwards. This creates a neat, compact package that’s easy to eat and won’t spill its contents.
- Make It Your Own with Add-ins: These bean burritos are incredibly versatile. Transform them by incorporating cooked chicken, seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, or an assortment of sautéed vegetables (onions, bell peppers, corn). These additions not only boost the flavor but also add texture and nutritional value.
- The Advantage of Freshly Shredded Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, shredding your own from a block of sharp cheddar yields superior results. Freshly shredded cheese melts more evenly and smoothly, creating that perfect gooey texture inside your burrito. Plus, it’s often more cost-effective.
- Toast Your Spices for Deeper Flavor: Before adding the refried beans, briefly sauté the spices in olive oil for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. This crucial step, known as “blooming” the spices, intensifies their essential oils and deepens their flavor, making your bean filling exceptionally aromatic and delicious.
Elevate Your Burrito: Unforgettable Topping Ideas
While delicious on their own, bean burritos truly shine when adorned with an array of fresh and flavorful toppings. These additions not only enhance the taste but also add vibrant colors and exciting textures, turning a simple meal into a gourmet experience. Get creative and customize your burrito to perfection!
- Tangy Sour Cream and Lime Drizzle: A classic pairing! Whisk together light sour cream with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt for a bright, tangy, and cooling counterpoint to the rich bean filling. It adds a delightful creaminess and zesty flavor.
- Creamy Guacamole or Fresh Avocado Slices: For an extra layer of richness and healthy fats, pile on homemade guacamole or simply add some creamy slices of ripe avocado. Their smooth texture and buttery flavor complement the beans beautifully.
- Fresh Pico de Gallo, Salsa, or Diced Cherry Tomatoes: Introduce a burst of freshness and acidity with vibrant pico de gallo, your favorite salsa, or simply some finely diced cherry tomatoes. These add a juicy, tangy crunch that brightens every bite.
- Fiery Jalapeños (Fresh or Pickled): For those who crave heat, a scattering of fresh or pickled jalapeños delivers a spicy kick. Pickled versions offer a tangy crunch, while fresh ones provide a sharper, more immediate heat.
- Aromatic Green Onions or Cilantro: Finish your burrito with a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions (scallions) or fragrant cilantro. These herbs provide a clean, refreshing, and slightly pungent zing that cuts through the richness of the cheese and beans.
- Crumbly Cotija Cheese: For an authentic Mexican touch, sprinkle some crumbled Cotija cheese on top. This dry, salty, and slightly pungent cheese adds a wonderful textural contrast and a distinct savory flavor that’s utterly delicious.
- Shredded Lettuce or Cabbage: For a refreshing crunch and added texture, consider finely shredded iceberg lettuce or thinly sliced cabbage.
- Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can add a personalized level of heat and vinegar tang.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These bean burritos are not only delicious fresh but also make fantastic leftovers and meal prep options. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy them days or even weeks later.
Refrigeration: To keep extra bean burritos fresh, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350℉ (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave until they are hot all the way through. For best results and a crispier texture, reheat in the oven.
Freezing for Longer Storage: For extended keeping, bean burritos freeze beautifully. Once cooled, individually wrap each burrito tightly in aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh. Place the foil-wrapped burritos into a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, unwrap the burrito and bake it in a preheated oven at 375℉ (190°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also microwave them for a quicker reheat, but the texture might be softer.
Explore More Easy Mexican-Inspired Favorites
If you’ve loved the simplicity and flavor of these easy bean burritos, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of Mexican-inspired recipes is designed to bring vibrant, comforting flavors to your kitchen with minimal fuss. Dive into these other family-friendly dishes that promise quick preparation and delicious results:
- Taco Sweet Potato Foil Packets: A delightful and easy-to-clean-up meal featuring tender sweet potatoes, seasoned taco meat, and gooey melty cheese, all cooked together in a convenient foil packet.
- French Bread Taco Pizza: A fun fusion dish that combines the crispy base of French bread with all your favorite taco toppings, creating a speedy and satisfying pizza experience.
- Flavorful Chicken Taco Marinade: Elevate your chicken tacos with this zesty marinade, bursting with fresh lime juice and a perfect blend of seasonings for truly tender and delicious results.
- Irresistible 7 Layer Bean Dip: The ultimate crowd-pleaser! Layers of seasoned refried beans, creamy sour cream, and fresh toppings make this dip a party essential.
- Spicy Chipotle Chicken Marinade: Infuse your chicken with smoky, spicy notes from chipotle peppers and a blend of complementary spices, perfect for grilling or baking.
Bean and Cheese Burritos
Easy Bean and Cheese Burritos are a snap to make! Creamy refried beans are spiced up with red enchilada sauce and melty cheddar, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla and baked to crispy perfection. Top them with your favorites for a delicious finish!
Equipment
- Sheet pan (15″ x 10″) dark-colored
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 6 large (10-inch) flour tortillas
- 9 tablespoons red enchilada sauce see note 1
- 2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese see note 2
- Cooking spray
- Toppings as desired see note 3
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375℉ (190°C). Prepare a dark-colored sheet pan with sides by generously greasing it with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and promote even crisping. Set the pan aside.
In a medium-sized nonstick pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices become wonderfully fragrant. This step is crucial for unlocking their full flavor. Next, scoop in the refried beans. Pour in chicken broth gradually, just enough to achieve your desired consistency. The goal is smooth, easily spreadable beans, not thick or chunky. The exact amount of broth will depend on your brand of beans; start with 1/4 cup and add up to 1/2 cup as needed, stirring until well combined and creamy.
Lay out your 6 large flour tortillas on a clean surface. Divide the seasoned bean mixture evenly among all the tortillas, using approximately 1/3 cup of filling for each. Spread the beans across the center of each tortilla, leaving a border. Create a slight divot or well in the center of the bean layer and pour 1-1/2 tablespoons of red enchilada sauce into each. Finally, top the sauce with a packed 1/4 cup of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
Carefully roll up each tortilla, tucking in both sides firmly to seal the fillings inside. Place the rolled burritos onto your prepared sheet pan, sealed side down, to prevent them from unraveling during baking. Generously spray each burrito all over with cooking spray for that desired crispy exterior. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the pan from the oven and carefully flip each burrito using tongs or a spatula. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy. Let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the fillings to set and to prevent burns. Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy your homemade bean burritos!
Recipe Notes
Note 1: The flavor and heat level of red enchilada sauce can vary greatly by brand. I personally recommend Old El Paso® mild red enchilada sauce for its balanced taste (not sponsored). If using a different brand, it’s a good idea to taste it first to ensure you enjoy its flavor and spice level.
Note 2: The intensity of a cheese’s flavor is directly related to its age. A well-aged sharp cheddar will provide a deep, rich, and robust taste. For the best melting and flavor, we always recommend freshly grating your cheese from a block.
Note 3: Customize your burritos with an abundance of your favorite toppings. I love adding a creamy element such as fresh avocado slices, a dollop of guacamole, or a quick sour cream drizzle. My go-to sour cream drizzle combines 1/4 cup sour cream with 2 tablespoons of lime juice and a pinch of salt, whisked until smooth. Other delicious additions include fresh salsa, pico de gallo, or vibrant cherry tomatoes.
Leftovers & Freezing: Store any leftover burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed. For longer storage, wrap each individual burrito tightly in foil, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 318 kcal | Carbohydrates: 26 g | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 17 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4 g | Cholesterol: 38 mg | Sodium: 1234 mg | Potassium: 76 mg | Fiber: 5 g | Sugar: 5 g | Vitamin A: 710 IU | Vitamin C: 0.4 mg | Calcium: 337 mg | Iron: 2 mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and is an approximation. Values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparations.