Pin this A cost-effective, portable, and flavorful meal featuring tender rice, hearty beans, and zesty salsa, all wrapped up for easy eating. Perfect for lunch on the go or a casual dinner, these Rice & Bean Burritos shine for their simplicity and taste.
I discovered the magic of bean burritos during college, when I needed cheap meals that wouldn't sacrifice flavor. They quickly became my go-to for parties and post-work dinners, and now my family requests them regularly for our busy weeks.
Ingredients
- Long-grain white or brown rice: 1 cup, uncooked
- Water: 2 cups
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black beans or pinto beans: 1 (15 oz/425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Canned corn kernels: 1 cup, drained (optional)
- Romaine lettuce: 1 cup, shredded
- Tomato: 1 medium, diced
- Red onion: ½ small, finely chopped
- Salsa: ¾ cup, mild, medium, or hot to taste
- Shredded cheddar or vegan cheese: ½ cup (optional)
- Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped (optional)
- Flour tortillas: 4 large (10-inch/25 cm)
Instructions
- Cook the rice:
- In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
- Warm the beans:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat the drained beans until just warmed through, about 3–4 minutes.
- Prep the fillings:
- Prepare lettuce, tomato, onion, and any other desired toppings.
- Warm the tortillas:
- Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 10–15 seconds to make them pliable.
- Assemble the burritos:
- Lay a tortilla flat. Spoon ¼ cup cooked rice along the center. Top with ¼ of the beans, 2 tbsp corn (if using), lettuce, tomato, onion, 3 tbsp salsa, cheese, and cilantro as desired.
- Fold & roll:
- Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. Repeat with remaining tortillas and fillings.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or wrap tightly in foil for a portable meal.
Pin this My kids love customizing their burritos and even help assemble dinners—making this recipe a fun family activity before movie night.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, small saucepan, knife and cutting board, skillet or microwave, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (flour tortillas), milk (cheese, if using). Use gluten-free tortillas and omit cheese for special diets.
Nutritional Information
Each burrito (with cheese, without optional toppings) provides about 375 calories, 7 g total fat, 65 g carbohydrates, and 13 g protein.
Pin this Whether enjoyed fresh or packed for later, these burritos deliver flavor and convenience. Make extra—they disappear fast!
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well and adds extra fiber. Adjust cooking time to ensure it's tender.
- → What types of beans are best for this meal?
Black beans and pinto beans both complement the dish nicely. Use drained and rinsed canned beans for convenience.
- → How can I make this meal vegan?
Simply omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it fully plant-based.
- → Is it possible to add protein varieties?
Absolutely, cooked chicken, ground beef, or tofu can be added for extra protein and flavor variation.
- → How do I keep tortillas warm and pliable?
Heat them briefly in a dry skillet or microwave for 10–15 seconds before assembling.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can prepare ingredients in advance but assemble right before eating to keep tortillas from becoming soggy.