Beef and Cheese Burrito – a savory and cheesy delight wrapped in a warm tortilla, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, creating a flavorful experience in every bite. Whether you enjoy it with sour cream, refried beans, or fresh cilantro, it’s versatile and easy to make. Great for busy weeknights or meal prepping, these burritos are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup tomato sauce
¼ cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
4 large flour tortillas
¼ cup sour cream (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
½ cup refried beans (optional)
¼ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef until it’s browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
I add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
I stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well.
I pour in the tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
I warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
If I’m using refried beans, I spread a thin layer onto each tortilla.
I spoon the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then top it with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
If desired, I add sour cream, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
I fold the sides of the tortilla inward and then roll it tightly to form a burrito.
I heat a dry skillet over medium heat and place each burrito seam-side down, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Then, I flip and cook the other side until crispy.
I serve them warm with salsa, guacamole, or extra sour cream on the side.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
Vegetarian Version: If I’m craving a meatless option, I can substitute the ground beef with black beans or a mix of grilled veggies.
Spicy Option: To spice things up, I can add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce into the beef mixture.
Cheese Lovers: I can add more cheese, like pepper jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses, for extra cheesiness!
Add Rice: For a heartier burrito, I can add some seasoned rice to the mix, which makes it even more filling.
Storage/Reheating
To store, I wrap the burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm the burritos in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30-45 seconds.
FAQs
Can I freeze these burritos?
Yes! If I want to freeze them, I wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to eat them, I can bake them at 350°F for about 20 minutes or microwave them until heated through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! I can cook the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to eat, I can warm it up, assemble the burritos, and cook them in the skillet as directed.
What other toppings can I add to my burrito?
There are so many options! I like adding guacamole, pico de gallo, or shredded lettuce for a bit of crunch. Pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips also make a fun topping.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute work great in place of beef.
Can I make the tortillas at home?
Yes, I can! Homemade flour tortillas will add an extra level of freshness to the burritos. There are plenty of recipes online for making them from scratch, and it’s surprisingly easy!
Conclusion
These Beef and Cheese Burritos are a simple yet satisfying meal I can enjoy any time of day. Whether I’m making them for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a quick lunch, they never disappoint. With endless variations, they’re sure to please everyone at the table, making them a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion.
Recipe:

Beef and Cheese Burrito
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These Beef and Cheese Burritos are packed with savory beef, melted cheese, and a hint of spice, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Add some sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for an extra punch! Make them ahead or freeze for later – a delicious and versatile recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup tomato sauce
¼ cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
4 large flour tortillas
¼ cup sour cream (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
½ cup refried beans (optional)
¼ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
- If using refried beans, spread a thin layer on each tortilla.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then top with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Optionally, add sour cream, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it tightly to form a burrito.
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and place each burrito seam-side down, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side until crispy.
- Serve warm with salsa, guacamole, or extra sour cream on the side.
Notes
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or grilled veggies.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Cheese Lovers: Feel free to add more cheese, like pepper jack, for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 420 kcal