Beef and Bean Burrito

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the Beef Filling

   • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook for 6-8 minutes until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease.
   • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
   • Pour in the tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes for the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
2. 2

   Warm Beans and Tortillas

   • While the beef is simmering, warm the refried beans in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, or in a microwave-safe bowl, until smooth and easily spreadable.
   • Warm the tortillas to make them pliable. Wrap the stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds. Alternatively, heat them one by one in a dry skillet for 20 seconds per side.
3. 3

   Assemble the Burritos

   • Lay a warm tortilla on a clean, flat surface.
   • Spread a quarter of the warm refried beans in a line down the center, leaving a 2-inch border on the sides.
   • Top the beans with a quarter of the beef mixture.
   • Sprinkle generously with about 1/4 cup of the shredded cheese.
4. 4

   Fold and Roll

   • To fold, bring the left and right sides of the tortilla in over the filling.
   • Next, take the bottom edge of the tortilla (closest to you) and fold it up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly.
   • Roll the burrito away from you to form a compact, sealed cylinder. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
5. 5

   Sear and Serve

   • Wipe out the skillet used for the beef or use a clean one. Heat it over medium heat.
   • Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in the hot, dry skillet.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy. This helps seal the burrito and melt the cheese.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.