If you are looking for a meal that combines hearty flavor, convenience, and that comforting homemade touch, this Freezer-Friendly Beef Burritos Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender beans, cheese, and vibrant salsa, these burritos are both satisfying and vibrant in taste. What makes this recipe truly shine is how perfectly it freezes and reheats, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or a quick, delicious dinner on busy nights. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be excited to stock your freezer with a batch of these tasty burritos ready to warm your day anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Freezer-Friendly Beef Burritos Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to deliver a melody of textures and flavors. Each element plays a crucial role—from the juicy ground beef to the creamy cheese and the zingy salsa, everything harmonizes beautifully.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The protein foundation that makes these burritos hearty and satisfying.
- Diced onion (1 small): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Brings a fragrant, savory boost that livens up the beef.
- Taco seasoning packet: A quick way to infuse Mexican-inspired bold spices evenly.
- Beef broth or water (1/2 cup): Helps simmer and blend the seasoning into the meat perfectly.
- Cooked rice (1 cup): Adds tender texture and helps stretch the filling in a comforting way.
- Black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Offer creaminess and earthy flavor that complement the beef.
- Frozen corn kernels (1/2 cup): Provide a burst of sweetness and a playful crunch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey goodness, binding the filling together.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Creamy and tangy, it adds a cooling balance to the spicy beef.
- Salsa (1 cup): Bright, zesty, and full of freshness to elevate every bite.
- Large flour tortillas (8): Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping all the delicious filling.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Cooking spray: For lightly coating the burritos before freezing to prevent sticking.
How to Make Freezer-Friendly Beef Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As you break it up with your spoon, watch it transform into golden, flavorful crumbles. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling satisfying without being greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add your diced onion and minced garlic directly to the skillet with the beef. Cook them together for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant, infusing the meat with wonderful aroma and flavor layers.
Step 3: Simmer with Taco Seasoning and Broth
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning then pour in the beef broth or water to create a saucy base. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to concentrate while the liquid reduces. Season with salt and pepper to your liking—it’s the little tweaks that make a big difference.
Step 4: Prepare the Rice and Bean Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, frozen corn, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mixing this blend ensures each burrito gets an even distribution of creamy, sweet, and cheesy goodness alongside the savory beef.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Lay your flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous line of the beef mixture down the center, then add a spoonful of the rice and bean blend on top. Top that with a dollop of sour cream and salsa—these fresh touches really bring the burritos to life.
Step 6: Roll Them Up
Fold the sides of each tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly to seal everything inside. This technique keeps the filling secure and makes the burritos perfect for freezing and reheating without losing shape.
Step 7: Freeze for Later
Place your wrapped burritos on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1 to 2 hours until firm. Once frozen, wrap each burrito individually in foil or plastic wrap, then store them all together in a large freezer bag for up to three months—always handy to have on hand for quick meals.
Step 8: Reheat and Enjoy
When hunger calls, unwrap your burrito from the foil, wrap it in a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes or until piping hot. For extra crispness, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. Delicious and easy!
How to Serve Freezer-Friendly Beef Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your burritos with some fresh garnishes can really elevate the experience. Think chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, a squeeze of lime, or some diced tomatoes for bursts of freshness and color that brighten every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair these burritos with simple sides like a fresh green salad, crispy tortilla chips with guacamole, or a light corn and tomato salad. These complements balance out the rich filling and add enjoyable textures.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re in the mood to impress, consider slicing the burritos into pinwheels for a unique appetizer. Or, set up a DIY burrito bar with extra toppings like jalapeños, olives, or shredded lettuce so everyone can customize their own flavorful creation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have burritos left after a meal, store them wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or oven to keep the texture tender and flavors vibrant without drying out.
Freezing
This Freezer-Friendly Beef Burritos Recipe was created with freezing in mind. By individually wrapping and storing the burritos, you ensure they stay fresh, preventing freezer burn, and making them easy to grab as a ready-to-go meal option weeks later.
Reheating
For best results, unwrap your frozen burrito and warm it wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave. The moisture prevents the tortilla from becoming tough. Alternatively, bake it in a preheated oven for a crispier touch and evenly heated filling.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative and works well with the same seasoning and preparation methods. Just be mindful to not overcook it to keep it moist.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for extra beans, vegetables, or plant-based meat substitutes. The rice and bean mixture already provides great texture and protein for a vegetarian option.
How long do these burritos keep in the freezer?
When properly wrapped and stored, the burritos remain delicious for up to three months. Beyond that, they may lose some flavor and texture quality, but are still safe if frozen continuously.
Can I freeze the burritos without cooking the beef first?
It’s best to cook the filling completely before assembling and freezing. This ensures safety and that all ingredients are properly flavored and ready to eat when reheated.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy tortillas after reheating?
Wrapping the burrito in a damp paper towel before microwaving helps keep the tortilla soft without getting soggy. Baking them in the oven also results in a crisp exterior if you prefer some crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Freezer-Friendly Beef Burritos Recipe is a true lifesaver for anyone wanting a delicious, hearty meal ready at a moment’s notice. It’s straightforward, flavorful, and perfect for those busy evenings when cooking from scratch feels overwhelming. Give it a try, stock your freezer, and enjoy the comfort of homemade burritos anytime you please! You won’t regret it.
Print
Freezer-Friendly Beef Burritos Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 burritos 1x
Description
These freezer-friendly beef burritos are a delicious and convenient meal option that combines seasoned ground beef, rice, black beans, corn, and cheese wrapped in warm flour tortillas. Perfect for meal prepping, they can be assembled ahead of time, frozen, and reheated easily while maintaining their flavorful and satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 small Onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 packet Taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 1/2 cup Beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Mix-ins
- 1 cup Cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) Black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup Frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
Assembling and Serving
- 1/2 cup Sour cream
- 1 cup Salsa (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 large Flour tortillas
- Cooking spray (for wrapping)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Season the beef mixture: Stir in the taco seasoning and beef broth (or water). Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the liquid mostly evaporates and the beef is well-seasoned. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine mix-ins: In a separate bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, frozen corn, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to evenly distribute ingredients.
- Assemble the burritos: Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread a layer of the seasoned beef mixture down the center of each tortilla, then add a spoonful of the rice and bean mixture. Top with a dollop of sour cream and salsa over the filling.
- Wrap burritos: Fold in the sides of each tortilla, then roll tightly from one end to form a sealed burrito. Repeat this process with all tortillas and filling.
- Freeze the burritos: Place wrapped burritos on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. Then wrap each burrito individually in foil or plastic wrap and store in a large freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat before serving: When ready to eat, remove a burrito from the freezer and unwrap the foil. Wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until hot and crispy.
Notes
- For a spicier flavor, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture or as a topping.
- Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the beef and increase the beans and vegetables.
- Freeze burritos individually to easily grab and reheat one at a time.
- You can prepare the burritos up to the wrapping step, then freeze the filling separately for quicker assembly later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
