Beef Burritos {With Meal Prep Steps}

The rich aroma of spiced beef and melted cheese envelops your kitchen, drawing everyone in for a taste of homemade comfort. Beef Burritos {With Meal Prep Steps} are a quick and satisfying meal, taking about 45 minutes to prepare, and they work wonderfully for both busy weeknights and fun gatherings. Packed with flavor and customizable to your preference, they are destined to become a family favorite.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts and anyone seeking an easy, crowd-pleasing dish. Make them ahead of time for busy lunches or dinners, and store them easily in your freezer for a quick meal on demand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The tender, flavorful beef filling combines perfectly with creamy cheese.
• You can customize the fillings to suit your taste preferences.
• Freezing and reheating allows for convenient meals anytime.
• These burritos are hearty and satisfying, ideal for hungry appetites.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create delicious Beef Burritos:

For the Rice

• 1 cup uncooked white rice (medium-grain, or use 3 cups of cooked rice)

For the Beef Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 lb lean ground beef (about 900 grams, see notes)
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained
• 12 oz mild tomato salsa (about 320-340 grams or 1.25-1.5 cups)
• 3 tablespoons BBQ sauce

For Assembling

• 12 oz grated cheese (about 350 grams, such as Cheddar)
• 12 large soft tortilla wraps (see notes)

Note: Feel free to use a different type of cheese or tortillas based on your taste preferences.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Brown rice for white rice
• Ground turkey for ground beef
• Spicy salsa for mild salsa
• Alternative beans (like pinto or kidney)

How to Make It

Start creating these scrumptious burritos with these simple steps.

Cook the Rice

Rinse the uncooked rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package directions, typically 15-20 minutes, and set aside.

Make the Beef Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and brown it until fully cooked. Stir in the garlic, salt, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and chili powder (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes to develop the flavors, then mix in the black beans, salsa, and BBQ sauce.

Assemble Burritos

Lay a tortilla flat and spoon a portion of the beef filling, rice, and a sprinkle of cheese in the center. Fold in the sides and roll from the bottom to secure the filling. Repeat for each tortilla.

Cooking the Burritos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled burritos in a baking dish and top with any remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burritos are heated through.

Freezing the Burritos

To freeze, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Label with the date and place in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating from Frozen

To reheat, remove the aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot. Alternatively, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake for 20-25 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the beef is well-drained to avoid sogginess.
• Don’t over-stuff the burritos to prevent tearing.
• Use a mix of cheese for added flavor and texture.
• Let the cooked burritos cool before freezing for better texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh guacamole or sour cream for dipping.
• Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Perfect for game days or family gatherings.