Most Popular Mexican Foods: How to Make Burritos (Recipe Guide)

Burritos are one of the most beloved and recognizable Mexican-inspired dishes around the world. Originating in Northern Mexico, the burrito has evolved from a simple, flour-tortilla-wrapped meal into a customizable canvas of bold flavors. Whether you prefer yours stuffed with rice, beans, cheese, and juicy meats or opt for plant-based fillings and vibrant salsas, burritos offer the perfect balance of convenience, heartiness, and crave-worthy taste. They’re versatile enough for any time of day and simple to make at home with just a few staple ingredients.

Homemade burritos not only allow you to control portion sizes and ingredients, but they also offer a fun way to experiment with Mexican flavors in your own kitchen. From carne asada to shredded chicken, from black beans and rice to spicy chipotle sauces—there’s a combination to please every palate. Plus, learning to roll a burrito properly means you can take your meal on the go, making it an ideal lunch option or casual dinner when you’re short on time but big on hunger.

In this recipe guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of building the perfect burrito—from choosing the right tortilla to preparing flavorful fillings and achieving that satisfying wrap. Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping meals for the week, or simply trying to recreate your favorite taquería bite, mastering the burrito is a culinary win that keeps giving.

Read here best fruits in Mexico, drinks in Mexico, best Mexican dishes and traditional Mexican Food, the most popular non alcoholic drinks and Vegetarian Food in Mexico

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Best Time to Eat & What to Serve with Burritos

Burritos are perfect for lunch or dinner, especially when you want something filling, portable, and easy to prepare. They’re also great for casual get-togethers or family nights, where everyone can customize their own. For a brunch twist, try a breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs, potatoes, and chorizo. For dinner, pair your burrito with classic sides like tortilla chips and guacamole, elote (Mexican street corn), or a light salad with lime vinaigrette.

If you’re planning a complete meal, serve your burrito with a chilled horchata, tamarind soda, or even a cold Mexican beer. Looking to go a step further? Offer a salsa bar with options like pico de gallo, salsa verde, and smoky chipotle salsa to let each bite sing. Burritos aren’t just a dish—they’re an experience, and when made fresh, they become the star of the table.

How to Make Burritos

Burritos Recipe Ingredients

For the Burritos:
Large flour tortillas (10 inches or larger)
Cooked rice (white or brown)
Refried beans (pinto or black)
Protein (choose one or more: shredded chicken, ground beef, carnitas, grilled vegetables)
Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
Salsa (red or green)
Sour cream
Guacamole
Chopped lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Lime wedges (for serving)
For Ground Beef Filling (optional):
1 lb ground beef
1 onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)

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Step By Step How to Make Burritos

1. Prepare the Ground Beef (if using)

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Add beef broth or water and let the mixture simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated. Set aside.

2. Warm the Tortillas

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 15-30 seconds per side or until soft and pliable. Keep them warm by covering them with a clean cloth.

3. Assemble the Burritos

Place a warm tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of refried beans and then a layer of rice over the tortilla. Add your choice of protein (e.g., ground beef, shredded chicken) and a generous amount of cheese, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Fold the bottom of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly to close. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.

4. Cook the Burritos

If desired, heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and place the burritos seam-side down. Cook until golden and crispy, then flip and cook the other side.

5. Serve

Cut the burritos in half and serve with lime wedges, extra salsa, sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Tips To Make Burritos

Freshly made refried beans and homemade salsa can elevate your burrito significantly. Avoid overfilling the tortilla to ensure it can be rolled easily and doesn’t break. Burritos are highly customizable. Adjust the fillings based on dietary preferences or available ingredients.

How Many Calories Have Burritos

Flour Tortilla (10-inch): Approximately 200-250 calories.
Rice (1/2 cup cooked): About 100-120 calories.
Refried Beans (1/2 cup): Roughly 120 calories.
Shredded Cheese (1/4 cup): Around 100 calories.
Ground Beef (1/2 cup cooked): About 150-200 calories.
Salsa (1/4 cup): Generally about 20 calories.
Sour Cream (2 tablespoons): About 60 calories.
Guacamole (2 tablespoons): Approximately 50 calories.
Lettuce, Tomatoes, and Other Vegetables: Typically less than 50 calories combined.

A fully loaded burrito could contain approximately 850-1000 calories.