Cheesy Potato Burritos with Beef

If you love bold flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla, cheesy potato burritos with beef are a must-try. This recipe combines crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese to deliver a satisfying and easy meal perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re making a quick dinner or packing a flavorful lunch, these burritos bring comfort food rolled into one delicious bite.

ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups frozen tater tots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños

directions

1. Preheat your oven and bake the frozen tater tots according to package instructions until golden and crispy.
2. While the tots bake, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef with diced onion, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
3. Once the tots are ready, combine them with the cooked beef mixture in the skillet and gently mix to incorporate.
4. Warm the flour tortillas slightly in a pan or microwave to make them more pliable.
5. Spoon the beef and tot mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, then roll up tightly into burritos.
6. For extra melty cheese, place the burritos seam side down on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes until cheese melts and tortillas get a little crispy.

serving and storage tips

Serve cheesy potato burritos warm for the best taste and texture. They pair well with fresh toppings like sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or chopped cilantro to add brightness and extra flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side salad, rice, or beans.

To store leftovers, allow the burritos to cool completely before wrapping them individually in foil or airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty. Alternatively, microwave on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, but this may make the tortilla less crispy.

If you want to store them longer, freeze the wrapped burritos for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven for best results. This makes them a convenient meal prep option.

variations

1. Chicken and Potato Burritos: Swap the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken seasoned with taco spices. This lighter option still pairs perfectly with crispy tater tots and cheese for a tasty twist.
2. Vegetarian Burritos: Replace the beef with black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers for a flavorful meat-free version. Add extra cheese or a dollop of guacamole for creaminess.
3. Spicy Beef Burritos: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick. You can also mix in chipotle powder or cayenne pepper for deeper heat.
4. Breakfast Style Burritos: Incorporate scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage along with the tater tots and cheese. This variation makes a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
5. Sweet Potato Burritos: Use frozen sweet potato tots instead of regular tater tots for a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color. This pairs nicely with smoky spices in the beef.
6. Loaded Burritos: Add extra toppings inside the burrito such as sautéed onions, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or avocado slices to turn it into a fully loaded meal.
7. Cheese Variations: Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend to change the flavor profile and add a little extra meltiness or spice.

Each variation offers a unique flavor or texture to suit different tastes and dietary preferences while keeping the core idea of a cheesy, satisfying burrito intact.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
   Yes, you can dice and roast fresh potatoes until crispy, but frozen tater tots save time and provide consistent texture.
2. What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
   Use 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef works too but may be less juicy.
3. Can I prepare these burritos ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the burritos and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking and serving.
4. Are these burritos freezer-friendly?
   Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
5. How do I prevent the tortillas from tearing?
   Warm the tortillas before filling to make them more flexible and easier to roll without tearing.
6. Can I make these burritos vegetarian?
   Yes, replace the beef with beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. Add extra seasoning for flavor.
7. What cheeses work best for melting inside burritos?
   Cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend all melt well and add great flavor.
8. Is it possible to make these burritos gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free tortillas to make the recipe gluten-free while keeping the same delicious filling.
9. How spicy are these burritos?
   By default, they are mild, but you can add jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to increase heat.
10. Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture?
    Yes, diced onions, bell peppers, or corn can be added for extra texture and nutrition. Cook them with the beef for best results.

Cheesy potato burritos with beef are an easy and delicious comfort food option that combines crispy tater tots, savory beef, and melty cheese in every bite. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Experiment with different fillings and toppings to customize your burritos and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal any time.

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