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Cheesy beef burritos with fries are pure comfort food loaded with seasoned beef and melty cheese and tucked in a warm tortilla, all served up with crispy fries on the side. This meal always disappears fast at my table and it wins over both kids and adults every single time. When the craving for something hearty and fun hits, this is the recipe I turn to for big flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: brings meaty richness use fresh or good-quality frozen beef for the best flavor
- Olive oil: enhances savory depth and helps get the onions golden and sweet
- Small onion: diced for a soft aromatic base choose onions that are firm and bright with no soft spots
- Garlic: packs in punchy flavor fresh minced garlic really wakes up the filling
- Chili powder smoky paprika and cumin: build a warm spice profile use high-quality spices for the best pop
- Salt and black pepper: balance everything out grind fresh black pepper for a bolder kick
- Salsa: adds tang and moisture choose a salsa with big tomato and chili flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese: melt beautifully and bring gooey richness buy whole blocks and shred them yourself for creamier results
- Large flour tortillas: hold everything together pick soft and sturdy tortillas to avoid splitting
- Sour cream: offers creamy coolness use full-fat for extra richness
- Chopped lettuce and diced tomatoes: add freshness and crunch
- Chopped cilantro (optional): for a zesty herbal layer make sure it is bright green and not wilted
For the fries
- Russet potatoes: make the crispiest fries look for potatoes that are firm and without blemishes
- Olive oil: coats the potatoes for crispiness
- Garlic powder and paprika: give the fries a tasty aroma
- Salt and pepper: enhance and balance flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Wash potatoes thoroughly and peel if you prefer or leave the skins on for extra texture. Cut them into even fries so they cook at the same rate. Soak the fries in a bowl of cold water for at least thirty minutes which draws out excess starch so you get crispier fries.
- Bake or Fry the Fries:
- Dry the fries well on a towel so they roast instead of steam. Toss them in olive oil garlic powder paprika salt and pepper to season every bite. Arrange in a single layer on a baking tray or fry in batches so they do not crowd the pan. Bake or fry until golden and crispy flipping once for even browning.
- Cook the Beef Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it slowly soften and caramelize to create a flavorful base. Stir in the garlic and cook just until fragrant. Crumble in the ground beef and break it apart as it browns. When the beef is cooked through drain any extra fat. Sprinkle in the spices and mix until you smell them bloom. Stir through the salsa and let everything simmer until saucy and thick.
- Assemble the Burritos:
- Warm flour tortillas so they are soft and easy to roll. Spread a thin layer of sour cream down the center then scoop on the hot beef mixture. Sprinkle generously with both cheeses and pile on lettuce tomatoes and cilantro if you like. Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom so nothing falls out.
- Serve with Fries:
- Arrange each burrito on a plate next to a hearty pile of golden fries. Serve with ketchup or salsa for dipping and extra toppings like guacamole or jalapenos for those who want more flair.
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Makes excellent leftovers and you can freeze burritos for up to two months High-protein filling thanks to the beef and cheese Baked fries keep things just a little lighter without missing out on crispness My favorite ingredient is that sharp cheddar cheese because every bite gets just the right amount of gooey melt My little one insists on extra fries every time and it usually turns into a playful contest for the last crispy potato
Storage Tips
Wrap leftover burritos tightly in foil or plastic and refrigerate for up to three days. Fries are best eaten fresh but you can reheat them in a hot oven to bring the crunch back. To freeze wrap burritos individually and store in a zip bag pressing out extra air.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based crumbles for a different protein. Cheddar and Monterey Jack can be switched with Mexican blend or Pepper Jack if you love more zing. Use store-bought frozen fries if you’re short on time and they will still turn out crowd-pleasing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with extra salsa or a bowl of guacamole on the side. You can top the burritos with a drizzle of hot sauce or an extra cloud of sour cream. Pair with a simple green salad for a touch of freshness or grill corn on the cob for a Tex-Mex feast.
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Cultural Note
Burritos are a beloved staple in Tex-Mex cuisine for good reason they are endlessly adaptable and always satisfying. The combination of beef and gooey cheese wrapped in tortillas is an American favorite and adding fries brings that diner comfort right home.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I get fries extra crispy?
Soak cut potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch, dry thoroughly, and bake or fry at high heat for extra crunch.
- → Can I substitute the beef filling?
Yes, try shredded chicken, black beans, or grilled vegetables for a different twist on the classic burrito filling.
- → What cheese works best for melting?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt easily and offer great flavor. Blend with Pepper Jack for extra spice if desired.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Fresh salsas, guacamole, coleslaw, or a simple green salad complement the burritos and fries perfectly.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Wrap burritos tightly and refrigerate up to three days. Store fries in an airtight container to maintain texture.
- → Can the burritos be made ahead?
Yes, assemble and wrap burritos, then refrigerate until ready to heat through and serve. Fries are best prepared fresh.