This Ultimate Beef Burrito Recipe is your go-to guide for creating deliciously satisfying, homemade burritos. Featuring perfectly seasoned ground beef, zesty cilantro-lime rice, creamy refried beans, and generous amounts of sharp cheddar cheese, these burritos are all wrapped up in soft flour tortillas. Not only are they incredibly flavorful, but they’re also super easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes, and wonderfully freezer-friendly – making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

The Ultimate Easy Beef Burrito Recipe

Life can get hectic, and finding time for delicious, home-cooked meals often feels like a challenge. That’s precisely why this easy beef burrito recipe became a staple in my household, especially before my third child arrived! I needed meals that were not only incredibly flavorful but also super convenient, kid-friendly, and perfect for freezing. These burritos check all the boxes, making them a fantastic addition to any busy family’s meal rotation.

While traditional burritos can sometimes seem daunting with their many components, my aim with this recipe is to simplify the process without compromising on taste. We’ll break down each element into manageable steps, ensuring that even novice cooks can create restaurant-quality beef burritos with ease. From perfectly seasoned ground beef to fluffy cilantro-lime rice, every layer contributes to a truly satisfying culinary experience.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Burrito Recipe

• Effortlessly Delicious: These burritos burst with authentic Mexican-inspired flavors, yet require minimal effort.
• Quick & Convenient: From start to finish, you can have these hearty burritos on your table in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute dinners.
• Freezer-Friendly Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze them for quick lunches or dinners whenever you need them. They reheat beautifully!
• Family & Kid-Approved: The mild, savory flavors and customizable nature make them a hit with both adults and children.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your spice preference, add extra veggies, or swap proteins.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients, these burritos are kind to your wallet.

Key Ingredients for Flavorful Beef Burritos

Creating the perfect beef burrito starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips for optimal flavor and texture:

• Lean Ground Beef: We recommend using 93/7 lean ground beef to minimize excess grease. This forms the hearty core of your burrito, seasoned to perfection with taco seasoning and simmered in red enchilada sauce. For a lighter option, ground turkey can be substituted. If you’re feeling adventurous, try shredded beef from a slow-cooked chuck roast for an even richer texture.
• Flavorful Rice: My absolute favorite is homemade Cilantro-Lime Rice, which adds a bright, zesty counterpoint to the savory beef. If you’re pressed for time, simply use plain cooked white rice or even a microwaveable rice packet for ultimate convenience. Just ensure it’s fluffy and well-cooked.
• Large Flour Tortillas: The vessel for all our delicious fillings! Opt for large, 10-inch flour tortillas. Warming them slightly before assembly is crucial – it makes them more pliable and much easier to roll without tearing. You can warm them briefly in a microwave, on a dry skillet, or wrapped in foil in the oven.
• Creamy Beans: We use both creamy refried beans and optional black beans in this recipe. Feel free to use just one or the other based on your preference. If using canned black beans, remember to rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and improve their texture.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated sharp Cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey factor. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting. For the best, creamiest result, always grate your own cheese straight from the block.
• Essential Aromatics: A finely diced yellow onion, sautéed until golden, provides a foundational layer of sweetness and aroma for the beef filling.
• Taco Seasoning & Enchilada Sauce: These two components are key to the robust flavor profile. A packet of store-bought taco seasoning is quick and effective, but feel free to make your own for a custom blend. Mild red enchilada sauce adds moisture, tang, and depth to the ground beef mixture, ensuring every bite is juicy.
• Cooking Oil & Spray: Olive oil for sautéing and cooking spray for crisping the burritos in the oven.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Easy Beef Burritos

Follow these simple steps to assemble your delicious and satisfying beef burritos:

1. Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it turns golden and translucent. Push the cooked onions to the edges of the pan, then add the lean ground beef to the center. Sear the beef until well-browned, then break it apart with a spoon and cook through, which usually takes 3-5 minutes. If there’s any excess grease, carefully drain it off.
2. Simmer for Flavor: Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the taco seasoning, mixing it thoroughly with the beef and onions. Cook for 1-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the seasoning is fragrant. Pour in the mild red enchilada sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, coating the beef beautifully. Remove from heat and, if using, stir in the drained and rinsed black beans. Let the mixture cool slightly while you prepare the other components. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Make the Cilantro-Lime Rice: While the beef simmers, prepare your rice. For my favorite zesty addition, follow the instructions for cilantro-lime rice provided in the recipe notes below. Alternatively, prepare plain white rice according to package directions. The key is to have fluffy, flavorful rice ready for assembly.
4. Assemble Your Burritos: Lay out your warm flour tortillas on a clean work surface. For each burrito, spoon a layer of cilantro-lime rice in the center, leaving space around the edges. Top the rice with a generous portion of the seasoned beef and bean mixture. Finish with a handful of freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese. Remember not to overfill, as this makes rolling difficult!
5. Roll & Bake to Perfection: To roll, fold in the two sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold up the bottom edge tightly over the filling. Roll the burrito away from you, tucking the sides in as you go, until you have a compact, sealed wrap. Lightly spray the rolled burritos with cooking spray and gently rub it in to ensure even coating. Arrange the burritos seam-side down on a large, dark-colored sheet pan that has also been lightly coated with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and deliciously crispy.
6. Serve Warm & Enjoy: Allow the baked burritos to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the fillings settle and prevents burns. Serve with your favorite toppings and dips on the side for a truly customizable meal. For an extra crispy exterior, you can also crisp them quickly in a pan instead of baking after rolling.

Freezing & Reheating: Your Ultimate Meal Prep Hack

One of the best features of this Beef Burrito Recipe is its freezer-friendly nature, making them perfect for meal prep or quick, convenient meals throughout the week.

Storing Freshly Made Burritos:

• To store burritos you plan to eat within a few days, simply place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to five days.

How to Freeze Beef Burritos:

• For longer storage, wrap each cooled burrito individually and tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place the wrapped burritos in a large freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. This ensures they stay fresh and prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Burrito Leftovers:

• From the Refrigerator:
  • Skillet or Grill Pan: For a deliciously crispy exterior, warm your burrito in a dry skillet or grill pan over medium-low heat. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly inside.
  • Air Fryer: Unwrap the refrigerated burrito, lightly spray it with cooking oil, and air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 6-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. If reheating multiple burritos, ensure they are spaced apart and adjust cooking time as needed.
  • Microwave: For the quickest reheat, place the unwrapped burrito on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The tortilla won’t be crispy, but it will be warm and delicious.
• From the Freezer:
  • Air Fryer: For a frozen burrito, wrap it loosely in aluminum foil and air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you desire a crispier wrapper.
  • Microwave: Unwrap the frozen burrito and microwave on the defrost setting for 7-9 minutes, or until mostly thawed and warmed. For a crispy finish, transfer it to a hot skillet or air fryer for a few minutes afterward.
  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the frozen burrito in aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. For a crispier tortilla, unwrap it for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

Important Note: Cooking times can vary significantly based on your appliance (microwave, oven, air fryer) and the size of your burritos. Always monitor them carefully and adjust heating times as necessary to ensure they are thoroughly warmed to your liking.

Irresistible Beef Burrito Toppings & Customization Ideas

The beauty of homemade burritos lies in their endless customization! While they are fantastic on their own, a variety of toppings can elevate your beef burritos to the next level. If you’re planning to freeze your burritos, it’s best to add these fresh toppings after reheating.

• Shredded Lettuce: Adds a delightful cool crunch and freshness.
• Diced Tomatoes, Salsa, or Pico de Gallo: For a burst of fresh, tangy flavor. Choose a salsa or pico de gallo that matches your desired spice level – mild, medium, or hot!
• Sliced Avocado or Creamy Guacamole: A must-have for rich, creamy goodness. Dice up a fresh avocado or spoon on some homemade guacamole.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream (or a lighter fat-free option, or even plain Greek yogurt for extra protein) provides a cool, tangy contrast.
• Sliced Jalapeños: If you love a kick, fresh or pickled jalapeño slices will add a vibrant spicy heat.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating brightens all the flavors and adds a zesty finish.
• Chopped Onions or Pickled Red Onions: A sprinkling of fresh chopped white or red onions adds a sharp bite and crunch. For a gourmet touch, try quick pickled red onions (find a recipe in our BBQ Chicken Sweet Potatoes recipe).
• Hot Sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for an extra fiery kick.
• Cotija Cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled Cotija cheese adds a salty, tangy, and authentic Mexican flavor.

What to Serve Alongside Your Beef Burritos

These beef burritos are substantial enough to be a meal on their own, but pairing them with a fresh side dish can complete the experience. Here are some fantastic Mexican-inspired ideas:

• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The classic pairing! Use any leftover guacamole from your toppings and serve it with a basket of crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
• Fresh Corn on the Cob: Simple yet satisfying. Roasted or grilled corn on the cob, lightly seasoned with chili powder and a squeeze of lime juice, is a fantastic seasonal side. For an elevated experience, try our flavorful Elote (Mexican Street Corn) recipe!
• Vibrant Corn Salads: A refreshing contrast to the hearty burrito. Consider a crisp Roasted Corn Salad with bell peppers or a creamy Mexican Street Corn Salad. Both are packed with flavor and texture.
• Simple Mexican Rice: If you didn’t use cilantro-lime rice in your burrito, a side of fluffy Mexican Rice is always a welcome addition. Our recipe is incredibly easy and bakes in a single dish!
• Light & Zesty Salad: A quick green salad dressed with a lime vinaigrette, or a deconstructed version of our Chipotle Chicken Salad (simply omit the chicken to make it a side dish) provides a refreshing balance.
• Black Bean and Corn Salsa: A chunky, fresh salsa made with black beans, corn, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Perfect for dipping or as a light side.

★★★★★ (5.0 from 4 votes)

Beef Burrito Recipe

By Chelsea Lords

This Beef Burrito Recipe combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, cilantro-lime rice, and Cheddar cheese in a customizable wrap. Easy to make and freezer-friendly, they’re ready in just 30 minutes.

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 8 burritos

Equipment

• Sheet pan (15″ x 10″) – dark colored for best crisping
• Large skillet

Ingredients

• Cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 pound lean ground beef (93/7 recommended)
• 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning (see note 1 for homemade)
• ¾ cup mild red enchilada sauce (see note 2 for brand recommendation)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (optional, drained and rinsed)
• 1 batch cilantro-lime rice or white rice (see note 3 for recipe)
• 8 large (10-inch) flour tortillas
• 1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
• 2 packed cups sharp Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• Toppings as desired: sour cream, avocado, guacamole, pico de gallo, and salsa

Instructions

1. Cook Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sauté diced onion until golden, about 3 minutes, then push to the pan’s edges. Add ground beef to the center, sear until brown, then crumble and cook through, about 3–5 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Simmer Filling: Reduce heat to medium, add taco seasoning, and stir until the beef is cooked and fragrant, about 1–3 minutes. Add enchilada sauce and simmer until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in drained and rinsed black beans if using, and let cool slightly. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Prepare Rice: Prepare rice as desired. See note 3 for my favorite cilantro-lime rice recipe or use plain white rice.
4. Assemble Burritos: Lay out tortillas and prepare your fillings. Evenly distribute rice, beef mixture, refried beans, and shredded cheese among the tortillas. Do not overfill.
5. Roll & Bake: Roll each burrito tightly. Lightly spray the burritos with cooking spray and rub it in. Coat a large, dark-colored sheet pan with spray and space the burritos apart on it. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, flip, and bake another 5 minutes until crisped and golden.
6. Serve: Let burritos cool for 5 minutes before serving with your favorite toppings and dips. Optionally, for extra crispness, you can also quickly crisp them in a pan after baking.

Recipe Notes

• Note 1 (Homemade Taco Seasoning): To make your own taco seasoning, mix 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin and paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use this blend as a substitute for the packaged seasoning.
• Note 2 (Enchilada Sauce Recommendation): Enchilada sauce flavors and heat levels can vary by brand. I recommend Old El Paso® mild red enchilada sauce. If using another brand, taste it first to ensure it’s not too spicy and suits your preference. You can also try my favorite homemade Enchilada Sauce for a truly authentic flavor.
• Note 3 (Cilantro-Lime Rice Recipe): To make a batch of flavorful cilantro-lime rice: In a medium pot, combine 1 cup long-grain or basmati rice with 1½ cups water and ½ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 12–14 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat, stir in 1 tablespoon butter, cover, and let stand for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then gently stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, and ½ cup fresh chopped cilantro. Season to taste.
• Note 4 (Storage & Reheating Summary):
  • Fridge Storage: Store cooled burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer Storage: Wrap each cooled burrito tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then place in a freezer bag. Label and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating from Fridge: Warm in a skillet (medium-low heat) until crispy and cheese melts, or air fry (unwrapped, sprayed with oil) at 360°F (180°C) for 6–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Reheating from Freezer:
    • Air Fryer: Wrap in foil, air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes for crispiness.
    • Microwave: Defrost for 7–9 minutes, then crisp in a skillet if desired.
    • Oven: Bake wrapped in foil at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, crisping in a pan afterward if preferred.
    • Always adjust cooking times as needed, as appliance performance varies.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 339kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 28mg | Sodium: 1128mg | Potassium: 384mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 694IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 84mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

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