Spicy Pork Burrito
Juicy, tender pork simmered in a smoky chipotle sauce, then wrapped with rice, beans, and cheese in a warm tortilla. This is the ultimate homemade burrito, packed with flavor and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 60 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sear the Pork
- b.Pat the pork shoulder cubes dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper.
- c.Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the pork in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding the pan.
- d.Sear for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Transfer the seared pork to a plate and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Build the Flavor Base
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same pot and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
- c.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- d.Stir in the chipotle powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen the flavor.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer and Shred the Pork
- b.Return the seared pork to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pot.
- c.Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 50-60 minutes, or until the pork is fork-tender.
- d.Uncover the pot and use two forks to shred the pork directly in the sauce. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the shredded meat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Prepare for Assembly
- b.While the pork finishes, warm your cooked rice and black beans.
- c.Warm the tortillas one by one in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap the stack in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds. They should be warm and pliable.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Assemble and Fold the Burritos
- b.Lay a warm tortilla on a clean, flat surface. In the lower third of the tortilla, layer approximately 1/2 cup of rice, 1/4 cup of black beans, a quarter of the spicy pork filling, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- c.Fold the left and right sides of the tortilla inward over the filling.
- d.Bring the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly.
- e.Roll the burrito forward to create a snug, sealed cylinder.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Sear and Serve
- b.Heat a clean, dry skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- c.Place the burrito seam-side down in the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. This helps seal the burrito.
- d.Flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until equally golden.
- e.Serve immediately with optional toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most tender pork, use pork shoulder (Boston butt). Its fat content ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful during the long simmer.
- 2Don't overfill your burrito. It's tempting, but leaving a 2-3 inch border makes it much easier to fold without tearing.
- 3Warming the tortillas is a crucial step. A cold tortilla will crack and break when you try to fold it.
- 4For even deeper flavor, make the pork filling a day ahead. The flavors will meld and intensify overnight in the refrigerator.
- 5To freeze, wrap each assembled (but un-seared) burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Not a fan of pork? This recipe works wonderfully with shredded chicken thighs, beef chuck roast (barbacoa style), or for a vegetarian option, use a hearty mix of lentils and mushrooms.
Make it a BowlMake it a Bowl
Skip the tortilla and serve the spicy pork, rice, beans, and cheese in a bowl. Top with lettuce, pico de gallo, and a dollop of sour cream for a delicious burrito bowl.
Add VeggiesAdd Veggies
Sauté sliced bell peppers and onions until tender-crisp and add them to your burrito filling for extra flavor, nutrients, and texture.
Spice it Up/DownSpice it Up/Down
To increase the heat, add a minced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the garlic. For a milder, smokier flavor, substitute some of the chipotle powder with ancho chili powder.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Pork is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Source of Fiber
The black beans in this recipe provide a significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
Energy Boosting
The combination of complex carbohydrates from the beans and rice, along with protein and fats from the pork and cheese, provides a sustained release of energy, making this a very fueling and satisfying meal.
Frequently asked questions
A large Spicy Pork Burrito, as prepared in this recipe, contains approximately 1100-1200 calories. This can vary based on the size of the tortilla and the exact amounts of cheese and other fillings used.