If you’ve been craving a burritos recipe that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to meal prep, these ground beef burritos will hit the spot. Inspired by Los Angeles-style burritos, this version keeps it simple with juicy ground beef, beans, cheese, and warm flour tortillas. Unlike burritos loaded with guacamole, sour cream, or rice, these classic beef burritos are perfect for freezing, reheating, and enjoying anytime.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, a beef burrito casserole, or prepping beef burritos for meal prep, this recipe will show you how to get the perfect balance of flavor and texture every time. Best of all? You can easily swap the protein for chicken burritos, vegetarian burritos with beans and cheese, or burritos rellenos packed with extra fillings.
Ingredients (Makes 6 Burritos)
- 1 pound ground beef (or shredded chicken, or beans for vegetarian burritos)
- 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or chipotle/ancho chili powder for spice)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (15-ounce) can black or pinto beans, with liquid
- 1 large tomato, coarsely chopped
- 2 teaspoons lime juice (or apple cider vinegar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 large burrito-size flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
- Hot sauce (optional, for a spicy burrito kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, press the beef into an even layer and top with onions. Cook over medium-high heat, undisturbed, for 6–8 minutes, until browned.
Step 2 – Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Break up the beef and stir until the onions are softened and fragrant, about 2–4 minutes.
Step 3 – Add Beans & Tomato
Stir in beans (with liquid) and chopped tomato. Let simmer until most liquid evaporates and the filling thickens, about 8–10 minutes. Stir in lime juice.
Step 4 – Assemble the Burritos
Lay out the tortillas. Sprinkle half the cheese in the center, then add ⅔ cup of beef-bean mixture. Top with remaining cheese and hot sauce if using.
Step 5 – Fold & Roll
Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom up until sealed.
Step 6 – Toast Before Serving
In a skillet over medium heat, place burritos seam-side down and cook until golden and crispy, turning occasionally (3–5 minutes).
🌯 Make Ahead & Storage Tips
- Fridge: Wrap in foil and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Microwave wrapped in a damp towel for 1–4 minutes, then crisp in a skillet.
✨ Variations You’ll Love
- Beef Burrito Bowl: Serve the filling over rice with toppings instead of wrapping.
- Burritos Rancheros: Add red sauce and bake in the oven for a comforting meal.
- Beef Burrito Casserole: Layer burritos in a baking dish, top with cheese and enchilada sauce, then bake.
- Vegetarian Burritos Recipe: Skip the meat and double the beans + cheese.
- Burritos Rellenos: Stuff with extra rice, beans, or veggies for a heartier version.