These burritos are simple yet delicious, with a hearty filling that’s both vegetarian and crowd-pleasing. They’re ideal for busy weeknights because they come together in just minutes using pantry staples. Whether baked, pan-grilled, or microwaved, bean and cheese burritos are endlessly customizable and freezer-friendly, making them a go-to meal any time of day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Flour tortillas (medium or large)
Refried beans (canned or homemade)
Shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
Sour cream (optional)
Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
Cumin and garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Butter or oil (if pan-toasting)
Directions
Warm the refried beans in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Stir in optional seasonings like cumin or garlic powder for added flavor.
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous spoonful of beans down the center.
Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese over the beans. Add a spoonful of sour cream or salsa if using.
Fold the sides of the tortilla in, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
For a toasted finish, heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of butter or oil, and cook the burrito seam-side down for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 burritos. Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 5 minutes Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa to the filling.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese and vegan refried beans.
Add Protein: Mix in cooked ground beef, chicken, or tofu for extra protein.
Breakfast Style: Add scrambled eggs and hash browns to turn these into breakfast burritos.
Veggie Packed: Include sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn for added texture and nutrition.
Smothered Style: Place the burritos in a baking dish, top with enchilada sauce and more cheese, then bake.
Crunchy Wrap: Add tortilla chips inside before rolling for extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
Wrap leftover burritos tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat:
Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat for 1–2 minutes until warm.
Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Skillet: Toast on both sides over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.
For freezing: Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the microwave or oven until hot.
FAQs
What kind of beans should I use?
Refried pinto beans are traditional, but black refried beans or whole beans mashed with seasoning also work well.
Can I use corn tortillas?
You can, but they’re smaller and more prone to tearing. Flour tortillas are better for holding hearty fillings.
How do I keep the burritos from getting soggy?
Avoid overfilling with wet ingredients and toast them in a skillet or oven for a crispier texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate or freeze for later. They’re great for meal prep.
Are these burritos vegetarian?
Yes, as long as your refried beans and cheese are vegetarian-friendly. Always check labels.
Can I bake these in the oven?
Absolutely. Place them seam-side down in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all melt well and add great flavor.
How do I roll a burrito properly?
Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom, tucking the filling in as you go to avoid spillage.
Can I add rice to the filling?
Yes, adding cooked rice can make the burrito even more filling and hearty.
What dips go well with these burritos?
Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and queso dip all pair perfectly for dipping or drizzling.
Conclusion
Bean and Cheese Burritos are the ultimate easy, comforting, and budget-friendly meal. Whether you’re feeding a family, stocking your freezer, or just craving something warm and cheesy, these burritos deliver every time. With endless customization options, they’re sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Bean and Cheese Burritos are a quick, satisfying, and budget-friendly comfort food made with creamy refried beans and melty cheese wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, they’re endlessly customizable and freezer-friendly.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Yield:4 burritos
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mexican-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
4 medium or large flour tortillas
1 1/2 cups refried beans (canned or homemade)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup salsa or hot sauce (optional)
1/2 tsp cumin (optional)
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Butter or oil for pan-toasting (optional)
Instructions
Warm the refried beans in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Stir in cumin and garlic powder if using.
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous spoonful of beans down the center.
Top with shredded cheese and optional sour cream or salsa.
Fold the sides in, then roll the tortilla tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
For a crispy finish, heat a skillet over medium heat, add butter or oil, and cook the burrito seam-side down for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Serve warm with your favorite dips like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream.
Notes
Use plant-based cheese and vegan beans for a vegan option.Add sautéed vegetables or cooked meat for more texture and flavor.Wrap tightly to prevent filling from spilling out during cooking or reheating.Great for meal prep—make ahead and store in the fridge or freezer.
