You know those meals that feel like a warm hug at the end of a long day? That’s exactly what ground beef burritos bring to your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner fix or a crowd-pleasing meal, these burritos are the kind of comfort food you can always rely on. They’re simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and easy to customize to fit your taste. With every bite, you get that perfect blend of savory beef, melted cheese, and soft tortilla—a dish that feels like home.
Why We Love This Ground Beef Burritos Recipe
What Makes These Burritos So Special?
There are dozens of reasons why ground beef burritos earn a regular spot on your weekly menu:
- Flavor-packed: The seasoned beef delivers a bold, satisfying taste.
- Quick and easy: Minimal prep and cooking time make this recipe ideal for busy nights.
- Budget-friendly: Ground beef and pantry staples keep your costs down.
- Customizable: You can easily swap or add ingredients to suit everyone’s preferences.
- Freezer-friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead and freezing for later.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Burritos
Ground Beef – Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture.
Onion – Finely chopped onion adds savory flavor.
Garlic – Minced garlic enhances the taste of the beef.
Spices – Cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano give the beef its bold flavor.
Cheese – Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese melts nicely inside the burritos.
Flour Tortillas – Large tortillas are best for wrapping the filling.
Rice (Optional) – Cooked rice can make the burritos more filling.
Sour Cream & Guacamole – Perfect for topping the burritos.
How to Make Ground Beef Burritos
Step-by-Step Burrito Building
Cook the Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft. Then, add the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon or spatula as it browns.
Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the tomato sauce and optional beef broth. Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes until the flavors meld together.
Warm the Tortillas
While the beef mixture is simmering, warm your tortillas. This step helps with folding. You can heat them one at a time in a dry skillet or microwave them in a stack wrapped in a damp towel.
Assemble Your Burritos
Lay each tortilla flat. Add a layer of rice, black beans, a generous spoonful of the beef mixture, and a handful of shredded cheese. You can top it off with sour cream or guacamole if served right away.
Roll and Toast (Optional)
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from bottom to top. If you like your burritos with a slight crunch, toast them seam-side down in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side.
Expert Tips for the Best Ground Beef Burritos
Tried and True Tricks
Drain the beef: Excess fat can make the burritos soggy.
Cool the filling slightly: Prevents the tortillas from tearing.
Avoid overstuffing: Keeps the burritos easier to roll and handle.
Use parchment paper or foil: Helps keep them warm and neat when serving.
Freeze before or after toasting: Both methods work—just be sure to wrap tightly.
Ground Beef Burrito Variations
Your burritos don’t have to be the same every time. Here are ways to switch it up:
Add heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Make it low-carb: Use large lettuce leaves in place of tortillas.
Turn them into enchiladas: Pour enchilada sauce on top and bake with extra cheese.
Go southwest: Add corn, bell peppers, or chipotle mayo.
Try breakfast burritos: Add scrambled eggs and hash browns to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
What Goes Well with Ground Beef Burritos?
You can create a full meal experience with these ideas:
Sides: Serve with cilantro-lime rice, tortilla chips with queso, or elote (Mexican street corn).
Toppings: Offer extra guacamole, pico de gallo, pickled jalapeños, or shredded lettuce.
Drinks: Pair with lime soda, agua fresca, or iced tea for a refreshing balance.
FAQs About Ground Beef Burritos
What’s the best beef to use for burritos?
Ground beef with an 80/20 ratio provides the perfect balance of flavor and moisture without being greasy.
Can I make ground beef burritos ahead of time?
Absolutely. They store well in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap.
How do I keep burritos from getting soggy?
Let the beef mixture cool slightly before assembling, and avoid adding too many wet ingredients like salsa directly inside.
Are ground beef burritos spicy?
They can be, but it depends on your seasoning. You control the spice level by adjusting ingredients like chili powder or hot sauce.
Can I reheat frozen burritos?
Yes! Wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 2–3 minutes or bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Ground Beef Burritos
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 works best for flavor and moisture
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth optional for juicier texture
- 6-8 large flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice optional
- 1 cup canned black beans drained and rinsed
- as needed sour cream
- as needed guacamole
- as needed chopped lettuce
- as needed salsa
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add tomato sauce and beef broth (if using). Let simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- While the beef mixture simmers, warm the tortillas. You can heat them in a dry skillet or microwave them wrapped in a damp towel.
- To assemble the burritos, lay each tortilla flat. Add a layer of rice, black beans, a generous spoonful of beef mixture, and cheese. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and other desired toppings.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly. If you prefer a crispy burrito, toast them seam-side down in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.