Packed with seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and smothered in spicy chipotle queso, these cheesy burritos deliver bold flavor and comforting satisfaction in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These burritos combine the richness of seasoned ground beef with the freshness of vegetables and the creamy heat of chipotle queso. The harmonious blend of textures and flavors makes this dish a standout. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or seeking a hearty meal, these burritos are sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Burritos:

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup chopped spinach or romaine
1/2 cup chopped scallions
4 large flour tortillas

For the Chipotle Queso:

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
Pinch of salt

Directions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it browns. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink.
Incorporate diced tomatoes into the beef mixture and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
For the chipotle queso, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture is smooth. Simmer until thickened.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and minced chipotle pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with a pinch of salt.
Warm the flour tortillas. Fill each with the beef mixture, chopped spinach or romaine, chopped scallions, and a drizzle of chipotle queso. Roll tightly into burritos.
Slice the burritos in half and serve with additional chipotle queso on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Additions: Enhance the nutritional value by adding sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the filling.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique taste.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers, or incorporate jalapeños for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Wrap leftover burritos individually in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, unwrap the burritos and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make the chipotle queso ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chipotle queso in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

What can I use if I don’t have chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?

If chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are unavailable, you can substitute with chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a milder flavor.

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour tortillas and ensure that all other ingredients, such as spices and cheese, are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze the burritos?

Yes, these burritos freeze well. Wrap each burrito tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

What side dishes pair well with these burritos?

These burritos pair nicely with sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad.

How can I make the burritos spicier?

To increase the heat, add extra minced chipotle peppers to the queso or include sliced jalapeños in the burrito filling.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the queso?

Absolutely. While cheddar cheese provides a classic flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend for a different taste.

Is it necessary to toast the tortillas before assembling the burritos?

Toasting the tortillas is optional but recommended. It enhances the flavor and makes the tortillas more pliable for rolling.

Can I add rice to the burrito filling?

Yes, adding cooked rice to the filling can increase the heartiness of the burritos and provide additional texture.

How do I prevent the burritos from becoming soggy?

To prevent sogginess, ensure that the filling is not overly moist and avoid overfilling the burritos. Additionally, serving the queso on the side for dipping can help maintain the burrito’s texture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef Burritos with Chipotle Queso offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a satisfying meal for any occasion. With customizable options and the ability to prepare components ahead of time, this recipe is both versatile and convenient. Enjoy the rich, spicy, and creamy goodness in every bite.