Description
Beef Burritos with Cheese and Sour Cream
Ingredients:
For the Burrito Filling:
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper (green or red), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
1/4 cup water
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)
Tortilla wraps (large flour tortillas)
For the Toppings:
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing until well combined. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Burritos:
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable.
Place a tortilla on a flat surface and add a generous amount of the beef filling in the center.
Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and red onion (if using).
Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
Roll the Burritos:
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to enclose the filling.
Serve:
Serve the burritos with extra sour cream and cilantro for garnish.
You can also serve them with your favorite salsa or hot sauce on the side.
These beef burritos are packed with flavor, texture, and all the delicious toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual get-together! Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect burritos every time. First, ensure all your vegetables are chopped and toppings are ready before you start cooking the beef. When browning the ground beef, use a wooden spoon to break it into very small crumbles for an even texture. After adding the taco seasoning and water, let the mixture simmer for the full 2-3 minutes until a thick sauce forms and coats the meat. To warm tortillas, the best method is a dry skillet over medium heat for 15-20 seconds per side; this makes them flexible without making them soggy. When assembling, place the fillings in the lower third of the tortilla, leaving a 2-inch border on the sides. Roll tightly by folding the bottom flap over the filling, tucking it under, then folding in the sides before rolling it completely away from you.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on their own, these beef burritos can be elevated with the right sides. Serve them with a bowl of chunky pico de gallo, smooth guacamole, and a lime wedge for squeezing. For a heartier meal, pair with Mexican rice and refried beans. To make a burrito bowl, simply deconstruct the ingredients over a bed of cilantro-lime rice. For a fun, crispy twist, lightly grill the assembled burrito in a panini press or a skillet until the tortilla is golden and the cheese inside melts.
How-to Summary
Quickly brown ground beef with onions, peppers, and garlic. Season with taco seasoning and water to create a saucy filling. Warm large flour tortillas to make them pliable. Layer the beef, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream in the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll tightly to enclose the filling. Serve immediately with optional garnishes like extra sour cream, salsa, or fresh cilantro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the beef filling ahead of time? Yes, the seasoned beef filling can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water before assembling.
What’s the best way to keep burritos from getting soggy? Ensure the beef filling has cooled slightly and isn’t too saucy before assembling. Also, place a barrier like shredded cheese or lettuce directly on the tortilla before adding the warm beef.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, shredded chicken, or even plant-based crumbles are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I store and reheat leftover assembled burritos? Wrap them tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat to crisp the tortilla.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas? For a lower-carb option, use large lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free corn or grain-free tortillas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the tortilla, which makes it impossible to roll tightly and leads to breakage.
- Using cold, stiff tortillas directly from the package. Always warm them first for flexibility.
- Adding hot filling directly onto cold toppings like sour cream, which can cause the cream to melt and make the tortilla soggy. Let the meat cool for a few minutes.
- Not draining excess fat from the cooked beef, which can result in a greasy filling.
- Rolling the burrito too loosely. A tight roll is crucial for structural integrity and even eating.
Conclusion
These beef burritos with cheese and sour cream are a versatile and satisfying meal that combines savory, creamy, and crunchy textures. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master the art of the perfect burrito. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe provides a foolproof foundation that you can customize endlessly with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy the process of building and rolling your creation, and don’t forget the extra sour cream on the side!