Brown Bag Burritos
Brown Bag Burritos are portable, flavorful wraps filled with seasoned beef, beans, and cheese, perfect for lunch or on-the-go meals for families and busy individuals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- Add refried beans, enchilada sauce, water, minced onion, chili powder, salt, and oregano to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Spoon 4 tablespoons of the meat mixture onto one side of each tortilla.
- Top with 3 tablespoons of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Roll up each tortilla to enclose the filling.
- Wrap each burrito in paper towel, then in foil.
- Heat in the microwave for 1 minute in the foil before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, canned chili can substitute for the chili powder. For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils and use vegetarian refried beans. These burritos are versatile and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients, much like Hearty Nachos.
Serving Suggestions
These Brown Bag Burritos are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and pair well with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside a bowl of Taco Bean Dip for an appetizer or snack. You can also enjoy them with salsa or sour cream for dipping, adding a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover burritos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, unwrap the foil and microwave each burrito for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warm. Ensure they're wrapped properly to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brown Bag Burritos contains roughly 537 calories, with 24g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (123% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (121% of the Daily Value), and calcium (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1561mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these burritos for later?
Yes, these burritos freeze well! Wrap each burrito tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute for ground beef. If you prefer a meatless dish, try using black beans or textured vegetable protein for a protein-rich filling. Both alternatives provide a delicious base for the burritos.
How can I make these burritos spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also use a spicier enchilada sauce or add extra chili powder for more kick. Experiment with your spice levels to find the perfect balance for your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).