Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that hits every comfort food note, look no further than Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries. This dish is a flavor-packed, weeknight-friendly masterpiece that combines seasoned savory beef, melty cheese, and all your favorite burrito fixings, bundled up in a soft tortilla and paired with golden, crispy fries. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself to something special, Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries will quickly become your go-to for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component is chosen to add a punch of flavor, a pop of color, or that irresistible cheesy, crispy texture that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty, flavorful foundation for your burrito filling.
- Taco seasoning (1 packet or homemade): Brings bold, zesty flavor to the beef—feel free to use your favorite blend.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps the seasoning cling to the beef, ensuring every bite is loaded with taste.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for that classic, gooey burrito filling—try Mexican blend for a twist.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the warm, spicy beef.
- Salsa (1/4 cup): Lends fresh, tangy flavor and a touch of brightness to every bite.
- Flour tortillas (4 large): Choose soft, pliable tortillas to keep all your fillings snug.
- Diced onions (1/2 cup, optional): For a little crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (1/2 cup, optional): Adds a pop of herby freshness that lifts the whole dish.
- Pickled jalapeños (1/4 cup, optional): For those who like a spicy kick in their burritos.
- Large potatoes (4, cut into fries) or 1 bag of frozen fries: Homemade fries give you more control over texture and seasoning, but frozen fries save time.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the fries crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds color and a subtle smokiness to your fries.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the fries with extra savory flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season your fries and beef just right!
- Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A final garnish for color and a hint of herbaceousness.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is the secret to getting your fries perfectly crispy and golden—a must for Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries. While the oven heats, you can prep the potatoes and gather your burrito ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare and Season the Fries
If you’re using fresh potatoes, slice them into thin, even strips. Toss them thoroughly with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a flavorful, golden result. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet so they roast rather than steam. If you’re using frozen fries, just arrange them on the baking sheet and season if you like—they’re already prepped for you!
Step 3: Bake the Fries
Bake your fries for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through to ensure both sides get that irresistible crisp. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary. If you’re using frozen fries, just follow the package directions, but don’t be afraid to add your own extra seasonings for a personal touch.
Step 4: Cook and Season the Beef
While the fries are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks so you get those perfect crumbles. Once it’s browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat. Sprinkle in your taco seasoning and pour in the water, stirring to coat the beef completely. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to every bite.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Lay your tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread each one with a spoonful of sour cream, then layer on the seasoned beef, a generous handful of shredded cheese, and a spoonful of salsa. Top with onions, cilantro, and jalapeños if you like a little extra zing and crunch. Each burrito should be loaded, but not so much that you can’t roll it up!
Step 6: Roll Up and Serve
Fold the sides of each tortilla in, then roll them up tightly from the bottom to keep all that cheesy, beefy goodness inside. Serve your Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries hot from the oven, with those crispy fries on the side. Garnish everything with extra fresh cilantro or parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries
Garnishes
For a pop of color and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over both the burritos and fries just before serving. A dollop of extra sour cream or a drizzle of salsa on the side makes everything look more inviting and adds layers of flavor. You can even add a squeeze of lime for zesty brightness!
Side Dishes
Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries are plenty hearty on their own, but if you want to round out the meal, try serving them with a simple side salad, some guacamole, or a bowl of fresh pico de gallo. These lighter sides balance the richness of the burritos and fries perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the fries tucked right inside the burrito for a fusion-style treat, or arrange everything on a big platter with colorful garnishes for a party-friendly presentation. Mini versions of these burritos make fantastic appetizers for game day or gatherings—just use small tortillas and cut the fries a bit shorter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries, wrap the burritos individually in foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fries can be kept in a separate container. Everything should stay fresh for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy a quick meal later.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Place them in a freezer bag and store for up to three months. Fries can be frozen too, though they’re best enjoyed fresh—if you do freeze them, spread them out on a baking sheet to avoid clumping, then transfer to a bag once frozen.
Reheating
To reheat burritos, unwrap them and place on a microwave-safe plate, covering with a damp paper towel to keep them moist, then heat until hot throughout. For crispier results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Fries can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to help them regain their crunch.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as leaner meats tend to need a little extra flavor boost.
What kind of tortillas work best for Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries?
Large, soft flour tortillas are ideal because they’re flexible and can hold a good amount of filling without tearing. If you want a whole wheat or gluten-free option, just make sure they’re big enough to wrap securely.
Can I make the fries ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the fries ahead and reheat them in the oven or air fryer just before serving. While nothing beats fries straight from the oven, reheating at a high temperature helps bring back some of that fresh crispiness.
How do I keep my burritos from getting soggy?
Let your beef mixture cool slightly before assembling and avoid overfilling with wet ingredients like salsa or sour cream. Wrapping the burritos tightly also helps prevent any leaks and keeps everything deliciously intact.
Are Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries spicy?
The base recipe isn’t very spicy, but you can amp up the heat by adding pickled jalapeños, using a spicy salsa, or sprinkling in extra chili powder. It’s easy to customize the spice level for everyone at your table.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries are the kind of meal that feels like a celebration, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend. Each bite is packed with flavor and comfort, and the crispy fries on the side (or inside!) take it to the next level. Give this recipe a try and let it become a new favorite in your kitchen—there’s truly nothing quite like sharing a plate of Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries with the people you love.
Print
Cheesy Beef Burritos with Fries Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and satisfying meal featuring cheesy beef burritos packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings, served alongside crispy homemade or baked fries. Perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together, this recipe takes about 45 minutes to prepare and yields 4 hearty servings.
Ingredients
For the Beef Burritos
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
For the Fries
- 4 large potatoes, cut into fries (or 1 bag of frozen fries)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the fries.
- Prepare Fries: If using fresh potatoes, cut them into thin fries. Toss them in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake Fries: Bake the fries for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown. If using frozen fries, bake following the package instructions.
- Cook Beef: While fries bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to avoid soggy burritos.
- Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water to the cooked beef. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the beef.
- Assemble Burritos: Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread a small amount of sour cream on each tortilla. Add a generous amount of the seasoned beef mixture, followed by shredded cheddar cheese, salsa, and optional toppings like diced onions, chopped cilantro, and pickled jalapeños.
- Roll Up Burritos: Fold in the sides of each tortilla and roll them up tightly to keep the filling secure inside.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy beef burritos warm alongside the crispy fries. Garnish with extra cilantro or fresh parsley if desired for added flavor and color.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat tortillas.
- Customize the burrito toppings based on preferences; add avocado or sour cream substitutes as needed.
- Frozen fries can be substituted to save preparation time.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to taste, especially salt and spice levels.
- For extra melty cheese, you can briefly heat the assembled burritos in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito with fries
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
