5 Simple Beef & Bean Cheese Burrito Recipes

Introduction to Burrito Bliss

The culinary world is rich with an assortment of dishes that celebrate simplicity and flavor, and burritos undoubtedly rank high on that list. A fusion of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, the burrito embodies comfort food with its portable, flavorful tortilla-wrapped creations. Today, we delve into the realm of beef & bean cheese burritos, offering not just one, but five delectable recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

Recipe 1: Classic Beef & Bean Cheese Burrito

This recipe is the quintessential starting point for burrito enthusiasts, balancing flavors and textures in a harmonious blend.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• ¹⁄₂ cup salsa
• ¹⁄₄ cup sour cream
• Guacamole (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in taco seasoning and ¹⁄₃ cup water. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Mix in the beans and heat through.
4. Divide the mixture among the tortillas, top with cheese, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole if using.
5. Fold in the sides of each tortilla, then roll tightly.
6. Optionally, heat the burritos in a skillet for a crispy exterior.

🌮 Note: Adjust the amount of cheese or sour cream to suit your dietary preferences.

Recipe 2: Veggie-Packed Beef & Bean Cheese Burrito

For those who love vegetables, this version packs a nutritious punch while retaining the beloved taste of a classic burrito.

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from Recipe 1
• ¹⁄₂ cup cooked corn
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ¹⁄₂ cup diced tomatoes

Instructions:

1. Follow the steps from Recipe 1 to cook the beef and beans.
2. Add corn, bell pepper, and tomatoes to the beef mixture, cook for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Proceed with filling and rolling the burrito as before.

🌱 Note: Add spinach or kale for extra greens.

Recipe 3: Spicy Beef & Bean Cheese Burrito

If you’re looking for something with a kick, this spicy variation will liven up your palate.

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from Recipe 1
• 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Cayenne pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add jalapeños to the beef mixture while cooking.
2. Once the beef is browned, stir in chili powder and cayenne pepper with the taco seasoning.
3. Continue with the assembly and cooking process from Recipe 1.

🔥 Note: Ensure to remove seeds from jalapeños to reduce spiciness if desired.

Recipe 4: Creamy Avocado Beef & Bean Cheese Burrito

Introducing an element of creaminess with avocado, this recipe provides a rich and smooth contrast to the hearty filling.

Ingredients:

• All ingredients from Recipe 1
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. After cooking the beef and beans, mash avocado with lime juice and salt to make a spread.
2. Spread the avocado mixture inside the tortilla before adding the filling.
3. Assemble and cook the burritos as outlined in Recipe 1.

🥑 Note: For a smoother spread, use a food processor to mix avocado, lime, and salt.

Recipe 5: Vegetarian Beef & Bean Cheese Burrito

A delightful alternative for those seeking meatless options, this burrito uses plant-based ingredients to mimic the texture and taste of beef.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb plant-based beef substitute
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup shredded vegan cheese
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• ¹⁄₂ cup salsa
• ¹⁄₄ cup vegan sour cream or cashew cream
• Guacamole (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the plant-based beef substitute according to package instructions, typically crumbling it in the skillet.
2. Follow the steps in Recipe 1 from adding the taco seasoning onwards, using vegan cheese and sour cream.

🍅 Note: Ensure your tortillas are also vegan if following a strict plant-based diet.

The Bottom Line

These five beef & bean cheese burrito recipes showcase the versatility of this beloved dish, allowing for customization based on flavor preferences, dietary restrictions, and culinary creativity. From classic to spicy, veggie-packed to creamy avocado, and even vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone in this collection of burrito recipes. Each recipe brings its unique twist, ensuring that the humble burrito can be reimagined in countless ways to suit any occasion or appetite.