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Easy Make-Ahead Beef and Bean Burritos

easy make-ahead beef and bean burritos - featured image
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These burritos combine seasoned ground beef and black beans wrapped in soft flour tortillas, perfect for quick meals and meal prep. They freeze and reheat well, making busy weekdays easier and more delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 large flour tortillas (10-inch), burrito size
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional additions: diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Add ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to deepen flavors.
  5. Add drained black beans and cook for another 2 minutes until warmed through.
  6. Remove skillet from heat and stir in fresh lime juice.
  7. Lay out tortillas on a flat surface. Spoon about ½ cup of beef and bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese if using.
  8. Fold in the sides and tightly roll each burrito from one end to the other. Place seam side down on a baking sheet or plate.
  9. To freeze: Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or parchment paper, place in a resealable freezer bag, label, and freeze for up to 3 months.
  10. To reheat: Unwrap and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight for best results.

Notes

Brown the beef well to build flavor and prevent flat taste. Cook tomato paste for a few minutes to mellow acidity. Avoid overfilling burritos to prevent breaking. Use a damp paper towel when microwaving to keep moist. Lime juice brightens flavor, especially after freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef burritos, make-ahead burritos, meal prep, easy dinner, freezer meals, black beans, quick burritos

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/easy-make-ahead-beef-and-bean-burritos-recipe-for-busy-weekdays/