Delicious Protein-Packed Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe for Meal Prep

If you want a meal that combines flavor, convenience, and nutrition, beef and bean burritos are a perfect choice. They offer a satisfying mix of protein, carbs, and fats, making them ideal for fueling your day or recovering after a workout. This recipe serves four and packs 31 grams of protein per burrito, making it a smart option for anyone looking to stay full and energized.

A close-up of a beef and bean burrito filled with rice, black beans, and melted cheese

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb 88/12 ground beef

• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup cooked long-grain white rice

• ½ cup Mexican-style shredded cheese blend

• ½ cup chicken bone broth

• 4 medium flour tortillas (8-inch)

  
  

These ingredients come together to create a hearty filling with a great balance of textures and flavors. The ground beef provides rich protein, while black beans add fiber and extra protein. Rice adds bulk and carbs for energy, and the cheese brings a creamy, melty finish. Chicken bone broth helps keep the filling moist and adds depth.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain about half the fat to keep the burritos from getting greasy.

2. Add chicken bone broth and black beans to the skillet. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. This heats the beans through and reduces the liquid slightly, making the filling perfect for wrapping.

3. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This makes them soft and pliable, so they won’t tear when you roll the burritos.

4. Assemble the burritos by dividing the cooked rice evenly among the tortillas. Place the rice down the center of each tortilla.

5. Top the rice with a quarter of the beef and bean mixture.

6. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese over the filling on each tortilla.

7. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll tightly from the bottom up to enclose the filling.

8. Optional step: For a crispy exterior, place the burritos seam-side down in a dry skillet. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.

   
   

Tips for Meal Prep and Storage

This recipe is excellent for meal prep because the burritos hold up well in the fridge and freezer. Here are some tips to keep them fresh and tasty:

• Wrap each burrito individually in foil.

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• To reheat, place the foil-wrapped burrito in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or microwave for 1 to 2 minutes.

• Freeze burritos for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

  
  

Meal prepping these burritos saves time during busy weeks and ensures you have a nutritious meal ready to go.

Skillet with ground beef, black beans, and broth simmering together

Why Choose Beef and Bean Burritos?

Beef and bean burritos offer more than just great taste. They provide a balanced meal with:

• High protein content to support muscle repair and keep you feeling full longer.

• Complex carbohydrates from rice that provide steady energy.

• Fiber and nutrients from black beans that aid digestion and overall health.

• Healthy fats from the cheese and beef that help absorb vitamins and add flavor.

  
  

This combination makes these burritos a practical choice for anyone who wants a filling meal without spending hours cooking.

Variations to Try

You can customize this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Use brown rice instead of white rice for more fiber.

• Add diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra flavor and crunch.

• Top with fresh salsa, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added freshness and creaminess.

  
  

Experimenting with these variations keeps the recipe exciting and tailored to your taste.