Description
Ever wondered what happens when you mix crispy tater tots, melty cheese, and savory beef all wrapped in a warm tortilla? You get Cheesy Potato Beef Burritos—a meal that feels like a big, cozy hug! These burritos are packed with flavor, super easy to make, and perfect for satisfying everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Great burritos start with great ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make 6 yummy burritos:
- Main Components:
- 1 pound ground beef (brings rich, savory flavor).
- 2 cups frozen tater tots (adds that crispy, potato-y texture).
- 6 large flour tortilla wraps (holds all the delicious fillings).
- Cheese & Sauces:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for sharp, tangy flavor).
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (melts smooth and creamy).
- ½ cup sour cream (adds cool, tangy richness).
- ¼ cup Taco Bell chipotle sauce (gives a smoky, spicy kick; adjust to taste).
- Seasonings & Optional Toppings:
- Salt and pepper to taste (makes all the flavors pop).
- Diced tomatoes (optional, for fresh juiciness).
- Chopped green onions (optional, for a mild onion crunch).
- Cilantro (optional, for a herby zing).
Why These Ingredients Matter
Every ingredient has a job. The ground beef gives protein and heartiness, while tater tots add a fun, crispy texture. The cheese blend melts into gooey perfection, and the chipotle sauce and sour cream bring bold, creamy flavors. The tortilla wraps everything into a portable, easy-to-eat package.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Tater Tots: Use frozen hashbrowns or diced roasted potatoes if you don’t have tater tots.
- Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Tortillas: Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if needed.
- Sauces: No Taco Bell chipotle sauce? Mix mayo with chipotle powder or use sriracha for a different kind of spice.
- Low-Fat: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to cut calories.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tater Tots
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (or follow the tater tot package instructions).
- Spread 2 cups of frozen tater tots on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re golden and crispy.
- Set aside to cool a bit.
Tip: Bake a few minutes longer for extra crunch, but don’t let them burn!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 pound ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Tip: Use lean ground beef (80/20) to avoid too much grease.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked ground beef.
- Slightly crush the crispy tater tots and add them to the bowl.
- Toss in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Mix everything until well combined.
Tip: Crushing the tater tots a little helps them blend into the filling and makes rolling easier.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- Heat 6 large flour tortillas to make them soft and easy to roll.
- Option 1: Warm in a dry skillet over medium heat for 10-15 seconds per side.
- Option 2: Stack and microwave for 15-20 seconds, covered with a damp paper towel.
Tip: Warm tortillas won’t tear when you roll them.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Spoon about ¾ cup of the beef-tater tot-cheese mixture into the center.
- Drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of Taco Bell chipotle sauce over the filling.
- Add a dollop (about 1 tablespoon) of sour cream on top.
Tip: Don’t overfill, or it’ll be hard to roll the burrito!
Step 6: Roll the Burritos
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling.
- Fold the bottom edge up, tucking it tightly over the filling.
- Roll the tortilla forward to form a tight burrito.
- Place seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Repeat for all 6 burritos.
Tip: Tuck the filling as you roll to keep it all inside.
Step 7: Bake the Burritos
- Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) over the top of the burritos.
- Bake at 425°F for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2 minutes.
Tip: For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.