Burritos are a favorite for many due to their delicious flavors and versatility. In this article, I will share my top 10 burrito recipes that are easy to make and packed with taste. Whether you’re looking for a classic bean and cheese burrito or something with a twist, there’s a recipe here for every taste.
Cooking burritos at home allows for creativity and customization. I have found that making them from scratch can be fun and satisfying. Join me as I explore these tasty options.
1. Carne Asada Burrito
A carne asada burrito is a popular Mexican dish. It features grilled, marinated beef, often served with rice, beans, and fresh toppings in a flour tortilla. It is both filling and flavorful.
Making this burrito is quite simple. I find it easy to put together with just a few steps. Here’s how I prepare it:
- Marinate the Beef: Use flank steak or skirt steak. Marinate it for at least 1 hour with lime juice, garlic, and spices.
- Grill the Meat: Preheat the grill. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through. Let it rest before slicing.
- Prepare Fillings: Cook rice and heat up refried beans. Gather toppings like cheese, salsa, and guacamole.
- Assemble the Burrito: Lay a tortilla flat, add a portion of rice, beans, sliced carne asada, and desired toppings.
- Wrap It Up: Fold in the sides and roll tightly.
This dish is perfect for any meal. I enjoy making carne asada burritos because they are delicious and versatile.
2. California Burrito
The California burrito is a delicious style that combines traditional flavors with a unique twist. It usually includes carne asada, french fries, cheese, and salsa, all wrapped in a large flour tortilla.
Making this burrito is quite easy. I enjoy preparing it because it requires simple ingredients and basic cooking steps. Here’s how to make it:
- Cook about 1 pound of carne asada on a grill or skillet until tender and fully cooked.
- Prepare a batch of french fries. You can fry or bake them based on your preference.
- Warm large flour tortillas in a pan or microwave for a few seconds.
- Layer the carne asada, fries, shredded cheese, and your favorite salsa inside the tortilla.
- Roll the burrito tightly and grill it for a few minutes to crisp the outside.
This combination creates a filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. I love how the fries add a great texture.
3. Breakfast Burrito with Chorizo
A breakfast burrito with chorizo is a delicious way to start the day. It typically includes scrambled eggs, chorizo, cheese, and vegetables wrapped in a tortilla. The flavors blend well, making it a satisfying meal.
I find this recipe easy to make. It takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.
Here are the steps I follow:
- Cook Chorizo: In a skillet, I heat 1 tablespoon of oil and cook 8 ounces of chorizo over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add Eggs: I beat 4 eggs in a bowl and pour them into the skillet. Stir to combine with the chorizo and cook until the eggs are set, about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare Tortillas: I warm up 4 tortillas on another skillet or directly over a flame for a few seconds on each side.
- Assemble: I place a portion of the chorizo and egg mixture in the center of each tortilla. I then add shredded cheese and salsa to taste.
- Wrap It Up: I fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and roll it up tightly.
This breakfast burrito is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and protein. Enjoy it fresh!
4. Carnitas Burrito
A carnitas burrito features slow-cooked, seasoned pork that is tender and flavorful. This dish is popular in Mexican cuisine and is known for its rich taste and satisfying texture.
I find it quite easy to make a carnitas burrito. The process involves a few simple steps that yield delicious results.
- Prepare the Pork: I start with a pork shoulder. I season it with salt, pepper, cumin, and garlic.
- Cook: I place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. I cook it on low for about 8 hours until it’s tender and easily shredded.
- Shred: After cooking, I shred the meat using a fork. This step makes it easy to mix into the burrito.
- Assemble the Burrito: I take a large flour tortilla and add the shredded carnitas. I top it with rice, beans, cheese, and salsa.
- Wrap and Serve: I wrap the tortilla tightly around the filling and enjoy my homemade carnitas burrito.
These steps make it a straightforward dish to prepare and enjoy.
5. Veggie Burrito with Avocado
A veggie burrito with avocado is a healthy and tasty option for any meal. It combines fresh vegetables, protein-rich beans, and creamy avocado wrapped in a tortilla. This dish is simple to make and can be ready in about 30 minutes.
To prepare this burrito, I usually gather the following ingredients: tortillas, black beans, bell peppers, corn, onions, and ripe avocado. I also like to add salsa and spices for extra flavor.
Here’s how I make it:
- Prep the veggies: Chop the bell peppers and onions.
- Cook the filling: In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped veggies and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Add beans and corn: Stir in the black beans and corn. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble the burrito: Place a scoop of the mixture on a tortilla. Add sliced avocado and a spoonful of salsa.
- Wrap it up: Fold in the sides and roll tightly.
This veggie burrito is versatile and can be modified to suit personal tastes. Enjoy it with your favorite sides!
6. Chicken Fajita Burrito
The Chicken Fajita Burrito is a delicious choice. It combines grilled chicken with vibrant veggies, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. This dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
To prepare it, I gather my ingredients. I use boneless chicken breast, bell peppers, onions, and spices like cumin and chili powder.
Here are the steps I follow:
- Marinate the chicken: I mix the chicken with oil, lime juice, and spices for about 15 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: In a skillet, I cook the chicken on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes, until it’s fully cooked.
- Sauté the veggies: I add sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet and cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re tender.
- Assemble the burrito: I lay a tortilla flat, add the chicken and veggies, and sprinkle with cheese.
- Wrap it up: I fold in the sides and roll it up tightly.
This Chicken Fajita Burrito is perfect for a quick meal at home. It’s satisfying and full of fresh ingredients.
7. Black Bean and Corn Burrito
The Black Bean and Corn Burrito is a flavorful and nutritious option. It combines black beans, sweet corn, and spices for a satisfying meal.
Making this burrito is quite easy, even for beginners. I can whip it up in about 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a great dish for meal prep.
Here’s how I make it:
- In a pan, I heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- I add 1 can of drained black beans and 1 cup of corn. I stir them together.
- Next, I season with 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and salt to taste. I cook for about 5 minutes.
- While everything cooks, I warm my tortilla in a different pan for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Once the filling is ready, I spoon it onto the tortilla and add toppings like salsa or avocado if I like.
- I wrap the tortilla tightly and cut it in half.
This simple recipe makes for a delicious and healthy meal any day of the week. Enjoy!
8. Shrimp Burrito with Mango Salsa
The shrimp burrito with mango salsa is a fresh and tasty dish. It brings together the flavors of shrimp and vibrant mango for a delightful meal.
This recipe is easy to make and great for any level of cook. I usually prepare this in under 30 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner.
Here’s a simple way to make it:
- Ingredients: I use cooked shrimp, flour tortillas, diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and seasoning.
- Prepare the salsa: In a bowl, I mix diced mango, chopped red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. This adds a tangy sweetness.
- Heat the shrimp: I warm the cooked shrimp in a pan with some seasoning for about 5 minutes.
- Assemble the burrito: I place the seasoned shrimp and mango salsa on a tortilla. Then, I fold it up and roll it tightly.
- Serve: Finally, I cut the burrito in half and enjoy it with extra salsa if I like.
This dish combines texture and flavor, making it a favorite.
9. Spicy Beef and Cheese Burrito
The Spicy Beef and Cheese Burrito is a delicious dish that combines seasoned beef and melted cheese in a warm tortilla. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick meal.
To prepare this burrito, I start with the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning
- 4 flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, or jalapeños
Here are the steps I follow:
- In a skillet, I cook the ground beef over medium heat. I break it apart with a spatula until fully cooked.
- I drain excess grease and add the taco seasoning to the beef. I stir in a bit of water for better flavor.
- Next, I heat the tortillas in another skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
- I place the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla and top it with cheese.
- Finally, I roll up the tortillas tightly and serve them warm with my choice of toppings.
This burrito is flavorful and satisfying, making it a great meal option any time of day.
10. Baja Fish Burrito
The Baja Fish Burrito is a delicious and popular dish that originates from the Baja California region of Mexico. It typically features battered and fried fish, wrapped in a warm tortilla with various fresh toppings.
I find this recipe to be easy to make, even for beginners. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, perfect for a quick meal.
Here are the steps I follow:
- Prepare the Fish: I choose white fish like cod or tilapia. I coat it in a mixture of flour and spices, then dip it in batter before frying.
- Fry the Fish: I heat oil in a pan and fry the coated fish until it’s golden brown, usually for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Warm the Tortillas: I warm flour or corn tortillas lightly in a skillet or microwave to make them pliable.
- Assemble the Burrito: I place the fried fish on the tortilla. I top it with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of creamy sauce or salsa.
- Wrap it Up: I fold the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly.
This burrito is satisfying and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic meal choice.
What Is the History of the Burrito?
The burrito has a rich and varied history, deeply tied to cultural influences from Mexico and the United States. I find it intriguing how this simple dish has evolved over time and taken on different forms across regions.
How Did the Burrito Originate and Evolve?
I believe the burrito’s origins can be traced back to Mexico in the early 20th century. It is thought to have emerged in the northern regions where tortillas were used to wrap various fillings. The name “burrito,” which means “little donkey” in Spanish, may have come from how these wraps were carried in the past.
As Mexican immigrants moved to the United States, they brought the burrito with them. It gained popularity in places like California and Texas. The burrito evolved, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. This led to distinct styles, such as the Mission burrito, which is large and packed with multiple fillings including rice, beans, and meat.
What Are the Burrito Variations by Region?
As I explore burrito variations across regions, I notice notable differences. In Southern California, the California burrito often includes French fries along with traditional fillings. This unique addition creates a hearty and satisfying meal.
In contrast, the Texas-style burrito is typically larger and may feature breakfast items such as eggs and bacon. Moving to the Southwest, I find the smothered burrito which is covered in red or green sauce and topped with cheese.
Each region has its own twist, which keeps the burrito exciting and varied. These adaptations show how versatile this dish can be, allowing it to appeal to many tastes.
What Are the Essential Ingredients for Burritos?
Creating a delicious burrito starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in shaping the flavor and texture of the final product. Here, I will detail the essential ingredients that make burritos truly satisfying.
How to Choose the Right Tortilla for a Burrito?
The tortilla is the foundation of any burrito. I prefer flour tortillas for their soft texture and flexibility. They are easier to wrap and typically larger, which provides space for ample fillings. Cotton and whole wheat tortillas also offer great options if I’m looking for something healthier.
Corn tortillas are another choice, especially for a gluten-free diet. They have a distinct taste and can work well for smaller burritos or tacos.
When buying tortillas, I look for ones that are fresh and free from preservatives. This little detail often enhances the overall flavor of my burrito.
What Are the Best Protein Options for Burritos?
The protein I choose is key to a filling burrito. Ground beef and shredded chicken are classic picks. I like to season my beef with spices like cumin and chili powder to add depth.
For lighter options, grilled chicken or turkey provides a leaner choice. I also enjoy fish tacos made with grilled fish for a different twist.
For those looking for plant-based options, beans are an excellent protein source. Black beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas all add richness and nutritional value.
I often mix proteins, like half shredded chicken and half beans, to create layers of flavor.
What Are Good Vegetarian Alternatives for Burritos?
When I want a vegetarian burrito, I focus on hearty fillings. Start with beans, as they are rich in protein and fiber.
I love adding roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, for a colorful and tasty mix. Sauté these with olive oil and spices for extra flavor.
Another option I enjoy is quinoa, which adds texture and is packed with nutrients. I sometimes use it as a base, then layer in black beans and corn.
Don’t forget to include leafy greens like spinach or arugula for some freshness and crunch.
What Are Key Toppings and Fillings for Burritos?
Toppings can elevate a burrito from good to extraordinary. I typically start with shredded cheese. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack adds creaminess and flavor.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt is another essential topping. I use it to cool down spicy fillings.
Salsa is vital, too. I often make a simple pico de gallo with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It adds brightness to each bite.
I also love avocado or guacamole for richness. Fresh lime juice enhances the flavor and keeps the avocado from browning.
Finally, jalapeños, either fresh or pickled, give a nice kick if I want some heat.
With the right combination of these ingredients, my burritos can be as simple or as elaborate as I desire.