Ground beef burritos is a tasty and filling dish that lots of people eat all the time. You roll up spiced beef with cheese, sauce and other stuff inside a soft tortilla and it makes a neat meal thats easy to carry. Whether you grab one from a food truck or you stir it up in your kitchen, these burritos show how different tastes and textures can work together good.
Burritos got popular far beyound Mexico and you can find them in lots of different cooking styles. From street venders to fancy resturants people love them cause you can change the fillings and toppings any way you want. This freedom is a big reason why theyre so loved, since you can add beans, veggies, or anything you like.
In this guide were gonna look at all you need to know about making a great ground beef burrito. Youll see a simple recipe that mixes spiced meat with fresh ingrediants and lets you top it how you want so your family and friends will eat it up. Even if youre new to cooking, the next steps are easy to follow and will help make your burritos better.
The History of Burritos
The word burrito means "little donkey" in Spanish and its said that it refers to how vendors carried the wraps like donkey packs. No one is sure exactly where they started but most people think it was in Chihuahua, Mexico in the early 1900s. Back then they used big flour tortillas and simple fillers so laborers could eat quick while working.
As burritos grew in Mexico, they crossed the border into the United States, espcially places like California and Texas. There they changed a bit and new styles popped up. Tex-Mex cooking mixed Texan and Mexican flavors and made the modern burrito we know today. Ground beef became a top choice in the U.S., so it stuck around as a favorite.
Today you can find all kinds of burritos that show different region’s tastes and personal likes. Ground beef ones stand out for being hearty and full of flavor, so theyre a go-to for many burrito fans. From simple versions to fancy restaurant styles, burritos have come a long way.
Why Ground Beef is Ideal for Burritos
Ground beef is a solid pick for burritos for a few reasons. First, its flavor is rich and satisfying, so it makes a good base for all the toppings. The fat in ground beef, especially if you mix lean and regular, keeps it juicy and pairs nice with other ingredients.
On top of taste, ground beef brings protein, iron and zinc to the table. That makes it tasty but also healthy if you dont overdo it. Compared to chicken or beans, ground beef gives you a different texture and flavor that some people just love.
Besides, you can season ground beef in tons of ways. You can stick to cumin and chili powder for a classic Mexican taste or try paprika and cayenne if you like more heat. This flexiblity is why so many burrito lovers pick ground beef.
Ingredients for a Perfect Ground Beef Burrito
To make a mouthwatering ground beef burrito, you'll need fresh ingrediants and some good seasonings. Here’s what you should have ready:
- Main Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Use lean or regular based on how juicy you want it.
- Tortillas: Flour for softness, corn for a more authentic touch.
- Rice: Cooked rice adds bulk and texture.
- Beans: Black, pinto, or refried beans for creaminess.
- Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts great.
- Vegetables: Lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions for crunch and freshness.
- Seasoning and Spices
- Chili Powder: For a mild kick and flavor depth.
- Cumin: Gives warm and earthy notes.
- Garlic Powder: Boosts the overall taste.
- Salt and Pepper: Always a must for basic seasoning.
- Extra Spices: Try paprika or cayenne for more heat.
Detailed Ground Beef Burrito Recipe
Ingredients
Here's a straight list of what you'll need, with amounts:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 tomato, diced
- ¼ onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off extra fat.
- Season and Prep:
- Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir and cook 2-3 more minutes.
- Cook rice per package directions.
- Warm the black beans in a small pot.
- Chop lettuce, tomatoes, and onions for toppings.
- Assemble: Lay a tortilla flat. Add beef, rice, beans, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onions in the center.
- Wrap: Fold in sides of the tortilla, then roll up from the bottom to seal the filling inside.
- Optional Toast: For a crispy outer layer, toast the wrapped burrito in a skillet 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
Tips for Perfect Burritos
- Make-ahead burritos save time—assemble, wrap in foil and chill.
- Freeze for longer storage: wrap in plastic wrap then foil; good for up to 3 months.
- Try vegetarian or vegan options using lentils, tofu, or textured vegetable protein.
Sides and Accompaniments
No burrito meal is complete without good sides and drinks. Here are some ideas:
- Side Dishes:
- Mexican rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices.
- Crispy tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole.
Drinks: Pair your burritos with Mexican sodas, horchata, or a simple limeade for a refreshing touch.
Vegetarian and Alternative Options
If you want to skip the meat, here are swaps:
- Meat Substitutes: Try cauliflower rice, lentils, or textured vegetable protein.
- Cooking Tips: Sauté veggies with your favorite spices so they hold up inside the burrito.
Storing and Reheating Ground Beef Burritos
- Storage: Let burritos cool before wrapping in foil or sealing in airtight containers.
- Reheating: For best results, warm in an oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Or microwave on a plate with a damp paper towel for 2-3 minutes.
FAQs About Ground Beef Burritos
- What can I add? Avocado, sour cream, jalapeños, or hot sauce are great extras.
- How long do they last? In the fridge, burritos keep 3-4 days if stored right.
- Other proteins? Chicken, pork, tofu, or beans all work well.
- Best toppings? Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and extra cheese are top picks.
Conclusion
Ground beef burritos arent just yummy—they let you mix and match flavors to your taste. Try this recipe, then share your own twists and favorites with your friends and family!
Additional Resources
For more cooking ideas, check out:
Or visit local Mexican restaurants and food blogs for even more inspo!
ground beef burritos
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 spoon or spatula
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 grater
- 1 cutting board
- 1 aluminum foil or parchment paper if wrapping
- 4 plates for serving
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or lettuce for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix, black beans, and corn. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Lay out one flour tortilla on a clean surface. Scoop about 1 cup of the beef mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with more cheese if desired, and top with salsa.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll from the bottom to the top to create a burrito. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and beef mixture.
- If desired, wrap each burrito in aluminum foil or parchment paper to help them hold their shape.
- Serve with salsa, sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or lettuce on top.
