Meet your new comfort food obsession: the Smoked Beef Rib Burrito. This Tex-Mex masterpiece takes sumptuously smoked beef rib meat and stuffs it into a pillowy tortilla along with seasoned rice, beans, melty cheese, and a pop of fresh salsa and sour cream. The savory, smoky beef just melts into the filling, while simple garnishes bring fresh flavor to every bite. Whether you’re planning a casual family night, barbecue leftovers rescue, or friends gathering, this burrito is a real crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself craving again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient for this Smoked Beef Rib Burrito plays a starring role, stacking layers of flavor and making each bite shine. With straightforward pantry staples and just a few fresh extras, you’re set to create a seriously satisfying meal.
- Smoked Beef Ribs (2 pounds, shredded): The centerpiece—tender, juicy, and full of deep smoky flavor that defines this burrito.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle richness and helps bring out the aromas when sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Offers sweetness, texture, and a classic aromatic base.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Lends a fragrant punch that wakes up all the ingredients.
- Cooked Rice (1 cup): Gives the filling heartiness and just the right bite; leftover rice works perfectly here!
- Black Beans (1 can, rinsed and drained): Bring plant protein, creamy texture, and earthy flavor.
- Corn Kernels (1/2 cup): Sweet pops in every bite—and they add gorgeous color too.
- Chili Powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers Tex-Mex spice without overwhelming heat.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, earthy undertone that complements the smoked beef perfectly.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts smokiness and brings a touch of color.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): The classic seasonings—never to be underestimated.
- Flour Tortillas (4 large): Soft, flexible wrappers that hug the hearty filling.
- Shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup): Melts into oozy perfection with every bite.
- Salsa (1/2 cup): A fresh, tangy accent that brightens up the rich filling.
- Sour Cream (1/4 cup): Cools and smooths the bolder flavors; you can always add more to taste.
- Fresh Cilantro (for garnish): Brings a vibrant, herbaceous finish right at the end.
How to Make Smoked Beef Rib Burrito
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start your Smoked Beef Rib Burrito journey by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute—your kitchen will fill with irresistible aromas.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Add your shredded smoked beef rib meat right into the skillet, followed by the cooked rice, black beans, and corn. Sprinkle on the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch (or more) of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together to mix the flavors, and let it cook for about 5 minutes until heated through and the spices have mingled beautifully.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Pop your flour tortillas into a dry skillet for about 20 seconds on each side, or microwave them in a stack wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents tearing when you roll up your hearty Smoked Beef Rib Burrito.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
Lay each warm tortilla flat and divide the filling evenly among them. Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheese over the hot filling so it melts instantly. Top with a spoonful of salsa and a dollop of sour cream for an irresistibly creamy finish.
Step 5: Roll and Serve
To roll, fold in the sides, tuck the bottom over the filling, and roll tightly to seal everything inside. If you love a crispy burrito, place them seam-side down in a hot skillet and cook for a couple minutes on each side until golden and slightly crunchy. Plate them up and garnish with fresh cilantro for the ultimate Smoked Beef Rib Burrito experience.
How to Serve Smoked Beef Rib Burrito
Garnishes
Top your burrito with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro, extra salsa, and maybe a few avocado slices or a drizzle of hot sauce. These garnishes brighten the plate and really make the savory flavors pop.
Side Dishes
Round out your Smoked Beef Rib Burrito feast with classic sides like tortilla chips and guacamole, a bowl of lightly dressed tomato salad, or charred elote (Mexican street corn). For something heartier, pair with a zesty corn salad or refried beans—simple, festive, and always satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice burritos in half and stack them on a platter for game-day sharing, or wrap them in foil for easy grab-and-go meals. If you’re feeling bold, serve burrito halves over a bed of chopped romaine and drizzle with salsa ranch for a burrito bowl vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest, making your next meal even tastier.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the Smoked Beef Rib Burrito but hold off on fresh garnishes. Wrap each burrito tightly in foil, pop them into a freezer bag, and store for up to two months. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Reheating
For best results, reheat refrigerated or frozen burritos in the oven at 350°F, still wrapped in foil, for 15-20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, unwrap and microwave for 2-3 minutes, turning halfway through—add fresh garnishes after reheating for best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While smoked beef ribs are the star, you can swap in any smoked or slow-cooked beef for a similar effect—just be sure to shred it well for a tender burrito filling.
Are there vegetarian alternatives for this burrito?
You can create a delicious vegetarian version by skipping the beef rib and bulking up with grilled mushrooms, jackfruit, or even sautéed bell peppers and extra beans for that savory depth.
How do I make it less spicy?
Simply scale back the chili powder or use mild salsa. You can always add heat on the side with sliced jalapenos or extra hot sauce for those who want it!
Can I prepare this recipe ahead for a party?
Definitely! You can assemble the Smoked Beef Rib Burritos ahead and store them in the fridge, then bake or grill to crisp right before serving. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal last-minute fuss.
What’s the best way to keep burritos from getting soggy?
Let the filling cool slightly before assembling, and avoid overloading with salsa or sour cream inside. Serve moist toppings on the side or right before eating for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a new favorite to bring excitement to your table, the Smoked Beef Rib Burrito is pure comfort and flavor in each bite. Every roll is juicy, smoky, and loaded with all the Tex-Mex fixings you love. Give it a try and watch your dinner crowd light up!
Print
Smoked Beef Rib Burrito Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of these Smoked Beef Rib Burritos. Tender smoked beef rib meat combined with rice, black beans, and spices, all wrapped in a warm tortilla and topped with cheese, salsa, and sour cream.
Ingredients
Smoked Beef Rib Filling:
- 2 pounds smoked beef ribs, meat removed from bones and shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, shredded beef rib meat, rice, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
- Assemble the Burritos: Warm tortillas, spoon filling onto each, sprinkle with cheese, add salsa and sour cream. Roll up tightly, folding in the sides.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and enjoy!
Notes
- For a crispy finish, cook filled burritos seam-side down in a hot skillet for a golden exterior.
- Freeze assembled burritos by wrapping in foil for future easy meals.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Assembly
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
