Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos have become a staple in our household for busy weeknights and casual weekend gatherings alike. There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a warm, generously filled burrito, and these homemade versions far surpass anything you can get at a fast-food drive-thru. My family, even the pickiest eaters, devour these burritos with gusto. The combination of savory, seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla, is simply irresistible. What I love most is how customizable they are – everyone can add their favorite toppings, making it a fun and interactive meal. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, perfect for when you want a hearty and flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, comforting meal that’s both simple and delicious, look no further than these Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos.

Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos, you’ll need a collection of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of taste and texture that make these burritos so satisfying. Let’s break down each ingredient and explore why they are essential and how you can choose the best for your burritos.

Burrito Essentials:

• 1½ pounds ground beef: The heart of our burrito filling, ground beef provides a rich, savory base. When selecting ground beef, consider the lean-to-fat ratio. For burritos, a ratio of 80/20 or 85/15 works wonderfully. The slightly higher fat content in 80/20 ground beef will lend more flavor and moisture to the filling, preventing it from becoming dry. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 ground beef is also suitable, but you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or beef broth to the skillet while cooking to ensure the meat stays moist and flavorful. For a richer, more robust beef flavor, you can also explore using ground sirloin or chuck roast ground at home. Remember to always check the expiration date and opt for ground beef that is bright red in color and feels firm to the touch, indicating freshness.
• ⅓ cup taco seasoning: Taco seasoning is the magic dust that transforms plain ground beef into a zesty, flavorful burrito filling. You can use a pre-made taco seasoning blend from the grocery store, or for a more personalized touch and control over sodium levels, consider making your own homemade taco seasoning. A typical taco seasoning blend includes chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. For example, if you prefer a spicier burrito, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your taco seasoning. Homemade taco seasoning also allows you to tailor it to dietary needs, such as gluten-free or low-sodium versions. Store-bought taco seasoning is convenient and readily available, offering a consistent flavor profile.
• 4 ounces chopped green chile or your favorite salsa: This ingredient adds a layer of vibrant flavor and a touch of heat to the beef mixture. Chopped green chiles, often found canned, offer a mild to medium heat and a distinct earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with beef and beans. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can use diced jalapeños or serrano peppers instead, remembering to adjust the quantity to your spice tolerance. Alternatively, using your favorite salsa is a fantastic way to introduce another layer of flavor complexity. Choose a salsa that complements the other ingredients – a roasted tomato salsa, a salsa verde, or even a fruit salsa could all work well depending on your preference. Consider the heat level of your salsa as well, especially if you are sensitive to spice or are cooking for children.
• 28-30 ounces refried beans: Creamy refried beans are the foundation of our burrito, providing a smooth, comforting texture and a mild, earthy flavor that balances the spiciness of the beef. You can use canned refried beans for convenience, and there are various types available, including traditional refried beans, vegetarian refried beans (made with vegetable oil instead of lard), and black refried beans. For the creamiest texture, opt for refried beans made with lard (if that aligns with your dietary preferences), as they tend to be richer and smoother. To enhance the flavor of canned refried beans, you can sauté some chopped onion and garlic in a little butter or oil before adding the beans to the skillet and heating them through. You can also add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to make them even creamier and more spreadable. For a homemade touch, you can make refried beans from scratch using dried pinto beans, which will result in a deeper, more authentic flavor.
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the other flavors. Always use fresh cilantro for the best flavor; dried cilantro is not a suitable substitute. Wash the cilantro thoroughly and pat it dry before chopping. When chopping cilantro, you can include the tender stems as they are also flavorful. If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a milder, slightly different herbaceous flavor. Cilantro is best added fresh right before assembling the burritos to retain its vibrant flavor and color.
• 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend: Cheese is the gooey, melty glue that brings all the burrito components together and adds a rich, cheesy flavor. A Mexican cheese blend is typically a combination of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, queso quesadilla, and sometimes asadero or Oaxaca cheese. This blend offers a good balance of flavor, meltability, and texture. You can purchase pre-shredded Mexican cheese blend for convenience, or shred your own cheese blend from blocks of cheese. Shredding your own cheese often results in better meltability as pre-shredded cheese is often coated with cellulose to prevent clumping, which can sometimes hinder melting. For a sharper cheese flavor, you can increase the proportion of cheddar in your blend. For a milder, creamier flavor, increase the Monterey Jack or queso quesadilla.
• 8 large flour tortillas: Flour tortillas are the perfect vessel for holding all the delicious burrito fillings. Large, burrito-size flour tortillas are essential to comfortably wrap all the ingredients without tearing. Look for tortillas that are soft, pliable, and fresh. You can find flour tortillas in various sizes and thicknesses. For burritos, choose the largest size available, typically around 10-12 inches in diameter. For the best flavor and texture, warm the tortillas before filling them. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or even briefly steam them. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when rolling the burritos. You can also explore different types of tortillas such as whole wheat, spinach, or flavored tortillas to add variety.

Optional Toppings (For Serving):

These optional toppings allow everyone to customize their burritos to their individual tastes and preferences, adding extra layers of flavor, texture, and freshness.

• Sour cream: Adds a cool, tangy creaminess that balances the spiciness and richness of the burrito.
• Avocado slices: Provide a buttery, smooth texture and a mild, nutty flavor, adding healthy fats and richness.
• Shredded lettuce: Offers a cool, crisp crunch and freshness, contrasting with the warm filling.
• Chopped tomatoes: Add a juicy, slightly acidic burst of freshness and sweetness.
• Jalapeño slices: For those who love extra heat, jalapeño slices provide a spicy kick and a vibrant flavor.
• Sliced black olives: Contribute a salty, briny flavor and a soft, slightly chewy texture.
• Chopped fresh cilantro: Extra cilantro for those who can’t get enough of its fresh, herbaceous flavor.

By carefully selecting and preparing each of these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating incredibly delicious and satisfying Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos that everyone will love.

Instructions

Crafting these Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure each step is executed perfectly, resulting in delicious, oven-baked burritos.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Beef

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating the oven is the first crucial step. This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the burritos inside, leading to even baking and perfectly golden-brown tortillas. While the oven is preheating, you can proceed with preparing the beef filling.
• In a large skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat. Choose a large skillet, preferably cast iron or non-stick, to provide ample space for cooking the ground beef. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and let it heat up for a minute or two. Add the ground beef to the hot skillet. As the beef cooks, use a spatula or spoon to break it apart into smaller crumbles. Cooking over medium-high heat helps to brown the beef nicely, enhancing its flavor.
• Season the meat generously with taco seasoning while cooking. This is the key to infusing the beef with that signature taco flavor. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the ground beef as it cooks and crumbles. Use your spatula or spoon to stir the seasoning into the beef, ensuring it is well distributed. Taste the beef as it cooks and adjust the amount of taco seasoning to your liking. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away. Cooking the seasoning with the beef allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Ensure the ground beef is cooked through completely for food safety. The beef should change from pink to brown and any liquid released from the beef should evaporate. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes, depending on the heat of your stove and the density of the ground beef.
• Drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Once the beef is cooked and browned, there will likely be some rendered fat in the skillet. Carefully tilt the skillet and use a spoon to scoop out and discard the excess grease. Removing the excess grease will prevent the burritos from becoming greasy and improve the overall flavor and texture of the filling. You can use a grease separator if you have one to make this process cleaner.
• Add the chopped green chile (or salsa) to the meat and stir to combine. Introduce the chopped green chiles or your chosen salsa to the cooked ground beef. Pour the green chiles (or salsa) into the skillet with the beef. Stir well to thoroughly combine the green chiles (or salsa) with the beef, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Cook for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together and the green chiles (or salsa) to heat through. This step infuses the beef mixture with vibrant flavor and a touch of heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Refried Beans

• Scoop the can of refried beans into a medium-size bowl. Open the can of refried beans and carefully scoop the contents into a medium-sized bowl. Using a bowl makes it easier to mash and smooth the beans.
• Smash with a spoon until smooth and spreadable. Use the back of a spoon or a fork to mash the refried beans in the bowl. Continue mashing until the beans are smooth, creamy, and easily spreadable. This step ensures the refried beans have a desirable texture for spreading inside the burritos. If the beans are too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to thin them out to your desired consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Burritos

• Warm the flour tortillas (optional but recommended). Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when you roll the burritos. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds, or briefly steam them. Warm tortillas are much easier to work with and result in a better burrito texture.
• Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place one warmed tortilla flat on a clean work surface, such as a cutting board or plate.
• Spread a line of refried beans down the center of the tortilla. Take a spoonful of the prepared refried beans and spread a line of beans down the center of the tortilla, leaving a couple of inches of space at the top and bottom edges. The line of beans should be about 3-4 inches wide and run lengthwise down the middle of the tortilla. This layer of beans will help to keep the burrito moist and provide a flavorful base for the other fillings.
• Top the beans with a spoonful of the beef mixture. Spoon a generous amount of the cooked beef mixture on top of the layer of refried beans. Distribute the beef evenly over the beans, again leaving some space at the edges for rolling. Don’t overfill the burrito, as this can make it difficult to roll and may cause it to burst during baking.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef. Generously sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese blend over the beef mixture. The cheese will melt beautifully in the oven, binding the fillings together and adding a cheesy, gooey element to the burrito.
• Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the cheese. Finally, sprinkle a bit of chopped fresh cilantro over the cheese for a fresh, herbaceous touch. This adds a pop of color and flavor to the burrito.

Step 4: Roll Up the Burritos

• Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling. To start rolling, fold in the two sides of the tortilla towards the center, overlapping the edges slightly over the filling. This helps to contain the filling and creates a more secure burrito.
• Starting from the bottom edge, roll up the burrito tightly. Begin rolling the burrito from the bottom edge, tucking the filling in as you roll. Roll it up tightly and firmly, like rolling a sleeping bag, to create a compact and well-sealed burrito. A tight roll will prevent the burrito from unraveling during baking.
• Place edge side down on a large baking sheet. Once rolled, place the burrito seam-side down on a large baking sheet. Placing it seam-down helps to seal the burrito and prevents it from opening up during baking. Use a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup, if desired.
• Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings. Continue assembling and rolling the remaining burritos using the same process until all the tortillas and fillings are used up. Arrange the burritos in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between them to allow for even baking.

Step 5: Bake the Burritos

• Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until the tortillas are golden brown with crisp edges. Place the baking sheet with the burritos in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for approximately 20 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges, and the cheese is melted and bubbly inside. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and transfer the burritos onto plates. Once the burritos are baked to golden perfection, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven using oven mitts. Use a spatula to transfer the hot burritos from the baking sheet onto individual serving plates.
• Add your favorite toppings to the plates and serve immediately. Set out your desired toppings, such as sour cream, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, jalapeño slices, black olives, and extra cilantro. Let everyone customize their burritos with their favorite toppings. Serve the Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos immediately while they are hot and cheesy. Enjoy!

By following these detailed instructions, you’ll be able to create delicious, oven-baked Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos that are perfect for a satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving, based on 8 servings)

Please note that these nutrition facts are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used, as well as portion sizes.

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550-650 calories

Approximate Breakdown per Serving:

• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 25-35 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 10-15 grams (depending on the lean-to-fat ratio of ground beef and cheese blend)
• Cholesterol: 80-100 mg
• Sodium: 800-1000 mg (can be higher depending on taco seasoning and refried beans)
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
  • Fiber: 8-10 grams
  • Sugar: 5-8 grams (mostly from beans and salsa/green chiles)

Important Considerations:

• Sodium Content: Refried beans and taco seasoning can be high in sodium. Choose low-sodium options for both if you are watching your sodium intake. Making your own taco seasoning and refried beans from scratch can also significantly reduce sodium.
• Fat Content: The fat content can be adjusted by using leaner ground beef and reduced-fat cheese. You can also limit the amount of cheese used per burrito.
• Calorie Count: The calorie count is an estimate and can vary. To reduce calories, consider using smaller tortillas, less cheese, and leaner beef. Adding more vegetables as toppings can also increase the nutrient density while keeping calorie count relatively stable.
• Fiber Content: The refried beans contribute a good amount of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and satiety.
• Customization: Toppings like sour cream, avocado, and cheese will add to the calorie and fat content. Be mindful of portion sizes for toppings.

For more accurate nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Remember that these burritos, while potentially higher in calories and sodium, also provide a good source of protein and fiber, making them a satisfying and relatively balanced meal when consumed in moderation as part of a varied diet.

Preparation Time

These Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos are designed for efficiency, making them a fantastic option for weeknight meals or when you need to get dinner on the table quickly. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • This includes the time to chop cilantro, shred cheese (if not using pre-shredded), open cans, and gather all ingredients. It also accounts for the time needed to brown the ground beef and prepare the beef mixture and mash the refried beans. With efficient workflow, you can likely accomplish the prep even faster.
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • This is the baking time in the oven, allowing the tortillas to become golden brown and crispy and the cheese to melt and become bubbly. The actual baking time can slightly vary depending on your oven and desired level of crispiness.
• Total Time: 40 minutes
  • From start to finish, including both preparation and cooking, you can have these delicious Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos ready in just 40 minutes. This makes them a great choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence, but you still want a homemade, satisfying meal.

The quick preparation time is one of the biggest advantages of this recipe. The steps are straightforward and don’t require complex techniques. You can further reduce the prep time by using pre-shredded cheese, pre-chopped cilantro (though freshly chopped is recommended for best flavor), and store-bought taco seasoning. The efficient cooking time in the oven also allows you to multitask or relax while the burritos are baking.

How to Serve

Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, making them perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even game day gatherings. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your burrito experience:

• Classic Burrito Plate:
  • Serve burritos immediately after baking: Enjoy them hot off the baking sheet for the best texture and melty cheese.
  • Offer a variety of toppings in bowls: Set out bowls of sour cream, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, jalapeño slices, black olives, and extra cilantro, allowing everyone to customize their burritos.
  • Serve with a side of Spanish rice or Mexican rice: Rice complements the burritos beautifully, adding another layer of texture and flavor to the meal.
  • Include a side of tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole: For extra crunch and dipping options, tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole are classic Mexican side dishes that pair perfectly with burritos.
• Burrito Bowls (Deconstructed Burritos):
  • For a lighter option or for those who prefer to avoid tortillas: Deconstruct the burrito and serve it as a bowl.
  • Base the bowl with Spanish rice or quinoa: Start with a base of Spanish rice or quinoa in a bowl.
  • Top with refried beans, beef mixture, and cheese: Layer the refried beans, beef mixture, and shredded cheese on top of the rice or quinoa.
  • Add all your favorite burrito toppings: Include all the desired toppings like sour cream, avocado, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, etc., just as you would for a rolled burrito.
  • Serve warm: Enjoy the burrito bowl warm, mixing all the ingredients together for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
• Party Burrito Bar:
  • Ideal for gatherings and potlucks: Set up a burrito bar where guests can assemble their own burritos.
  • Keep the beef mixture and refried beans warm in slow cookers or chafing dishes: This ensures the fillings stay hot and ready for serving.
  • Offer a variety of tortillas: Include flour tortillas, whole wheat tortillas, and even gluten-free tortillas to cater to different dietary needs.
  • Provide a wide array of toppings: Go beyond the basics and offer options like pico de gallo, guacamole, queso, pickled onions, different types of salsa (mild, medium, hot), and various cheeses.
  • Let guests customize their burritos: Allow guests to build their own burritos with their preferred fillings and toppings, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.
• Make-Ahead Burritos (Freezer-Friendly):
  • Prepare burritos ahead of time for busy weeks: Assemble and roll the burritos as instructed.
  • Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap: Ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
  • Freeze for up to 2-3 months: Store the wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag or container in the freezer.
  • Reheat from frozen: To reheat, unwrap the frozen burritos, place them on a baking sheet, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown. You can also microwave them for a quicker reheat, but they may not be as crispy.
• Serve with Complementary Sides:
  • Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote Salad): A refreshing and flavorful salad that pairs well with the richness of the burritos.
  • Black Bean and Corn Salad: Another light and zesty salad that complements the Mexican flavors.
  • Simple Green Salad with Lime Vinaigrette: A light and refreshing salad to balance the heartiness of the burritos.
  • Refried Bean Dip and Tortilla Chips: An extra serving of refried beans in dip form for bean lovers.

By using these serving suggestions, you can transform your Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos into a complete and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Additional Tips for Perfect Burritos

To take your Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos to the next level, consider these helpful tips and tricks that will enhance the flavor, texture, and overall burrito experience:

1. Toast Your Tortillas for Extra Flavor: Before filling the tortillas, lightly toast them in a dry skillet or directly over a gas stovetop flame (if you are comfortable doing so). Toasting the tortillas for just a few seconds per side imparts a subtle smoky flavor and makes them slightly more pliable, preventing them from becoming soggy and adding a layer of textural complexity. Be careful not to over-toast, as they can become brittle.
2. Layer Ingredients Strategically for Optimal Flavor Distribution: When assembling your burritos, think about how you layer the ingredients. Spreading the refried beans first creates a moisture barrier and a creamy base. Placing the beef mixture next ensures it’s well-distributed. Sprinkling cheese over the beef and then cilantro allows the cheese to melt and bind everything together while the cilantro adds a fresh finish. Strategic layering ensures each bite is balanced and flavorful.
3. Don’t Overfill Your Burritos for Easy Rolling and Baking: Resist the urge to overstuff your burritos. Overfilling makes them difficult to roll, prone to bursting during baking, and can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for a generous but manageable amount of filling in each tortilla. It’s better to make slightly smaller, well-rolled burritos than oversized, messy ones.
4. Enhance Refried Beans with Extra Flavor: Take your refried beans from good to great by adding a few simple flavor boosters. Sautéing chopped onion and garlic in a little butter or oil before heating the refried beans adds depth of flavor. You can also stir in a spoonful of salsa, a pinch of cumin, chili powder, or even a splash of hot sauce to customize the bean flavor profile and complement the other burrito ingredients.
5. Experiment with Different Cheese Blends for Varied Flavors: While a Mexican cheese blend is classic for burritos, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheese combinations to create different flavor profiles. Try using Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, pepper jack for a spicy kick, cheddar for a sharper flavor, or a combination of Oaxaca and queso quesadilla for a more authentic Mexican cheese pull. Using a good quality cheese can significantly elevate the overall taste of your burritos.

By incorporating these tips into your burrito-making process, you can consistently create delicious, restaurant-quality Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions people have when making Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos, along with helpful answers to guide you through the process:

Q1: Can I make these burritos vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! To make vegetarian burritos, simply omit the ground beef. You can replace it with a variety of vegetarian options to maintain heartiness and flavor. Excellent substitutes include:

• Lentils: Cooked lentils seasoned with taco seasoning make a fantastic protein-rich filling.
• Black Beans: Add extra black beans to the refried beans or use seasoned black beans as a separate layer.
• Sweet Potatoes or Butternut Squash: Roasted and diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash provide a sweet and savory element.
• Cauliflower or Mushrooms: Sautéed cauliflower florets or mushrooms seasoned with taco seasoning can mimic the texture of ground beef.
• Soy Chorizo or Plant-Based Ground Beef: Commercially available soy chorizo or plant-based ground beef alternatives are also great options for a meaty texture.

Q2: Can I prepare these burritos ahead of time and bake later?

A: Yes, you can definitely prepare these burritos ahead of time. Assemble and roll the burritos as instructed, but instead of baking immediately, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the wrapping and bake as directed in the recipe. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the burritos are cold from the refrigerator. This make-ahead option is perfect for meal prepping or when you want to get ahead on dinner preparations.

Q3: Can I freeze these burritos for longer storage?

A: Yes, Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos freeze beautifully, making them ideal for meal prepping or stocking your freezer for quick meals. To freeze, assemble and roll the burritos, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for extra protection against freezer burn. Place the wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, unwrap the burritos and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker reheat, but they may not be as crispy as oven-baked burritos.

Q4: What if I don’t have taco seasoning? Can I make my own?

A: Yes, making your own taco seasoning is easy and allows you to control the ingredients and spice level. A basic homemade taco seasoning blend includes:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat

Combine all the spices in a small bowl and mix well. Use this homemade taco seasoning to season the ground beef as directed in the recipe. You can adjust the quantities of spices to suit your taste preferences.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables to the burrito filling?

A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of your burritos. Some excellent vegetable additions to the beef mixture include:

• Diced Onions: Sauté diced onions with the ground beef for extra flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers (any color) add sweetness and crunch.
• Corn: Canned or frozen corn kernels add sweetness and texture.
• Zucchini or Squash: Diced zucchini or yellow squash adds moisture and mild flavor.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added greens.

Simply sauté your chosen vegetables with the ground beef or add them during the last few minutes of cooking to soften them slightly and incorporate them into the beef mixture. Vegetables enhance both the flavor and nutritional profile of your Cheesy Beef and Bean Burritos.

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