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Beef Burritos with Meal Prep Steps

These Beef Burritos are hearty, cheesy, and packed with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, black beans, salsa, and a smoky BBQ sauce. They are easy to assemble, freezer-friendly, and ideal for meal prep or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked white rice, medium-grain, or 3 cups cooked rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 lb lean ground beef
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ 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
  • 3 tablespoons BBQ sauce
  • 12 oz grated cheese, such as Cheddar
  • 12 large soft tortilla wraps

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice according to the package directions. If using leftover or pre-cooked rice, set aside until ready to assemble the burritos.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
  3. Add the minced garlic, salt, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and optional chili powder. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the drained black beans, salsa, and BBQ sauce. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until the mixture is hot and slightly thickened.
  5. Warm the tortillas briefly in a microwave or dry skillet so they are flexible and easier to roll.
  6. Place a portion of rice in the center of each tortilla. Top with the seasoned beef mixture and shredded cheese.
  7. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to create a burrito. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  8. For serving immediately, place the burritos seam-side down in a skillet over medium heat and toast for 1–2 minutes per side if desired.
  9. For meal prep, allow the burritos to cool completely before wrapping individually in foil or parchment paper. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
  10. To reheat refrigerated burritos, microwave until heated through or warm in a skillet or oven. Frozen burritos can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Notes

  • Lean ground beef works well because it keeps the burritos hearty without making the tortillas overly greasy.
  • Use cooked rice to save time and make meal prep even easier.
  • Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican-style cheese blend can be used.
  • Choose large, soft tortillas that are easy to fold and roll without tearing.
  • For freezer meal prep, wrap each burrito tightly and label with the date.
  • Let cooked fillings cool slightly before assembling to help prevent soggy tortillas.
  • Add avocado, lettuce, sour cream, or fresh cilantro when serving if desired.