Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos

There’s something undeniably comforting about burritos. Maybe it’s the way they’re packed with flavor, or how each bite reveals a medley of textures that dance on your palate. Today, we’re diving into a delicious recipe for Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos that will make your taste buds sing. These burritos are not only filling but also bursting with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile; you can customize them to fit your preferences. Whether you like a little extra spice or prefer a milder flavor, these burritos can adapt. Second, they are packed with nutrients from black beans, fresh vegetables, and spices. This means you can indulge guilt-free. Lastly, they are easy to prepare, making them a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks alike.

What Goes Into Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos

Creating these burritos is a breeze with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large sweet Vidalia or white onion, diced small
• 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced small
• 3 to 5 cloves finely minced or pressed garlic
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder, or to taste
• 1 package (8.8 ounces) precooked rice or 2 cups of your favorite cooked rice (I used Spanish rice)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed (I used no-salt added)
• 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel or similar tomatoes with green chiles (I used Original flavor)
• 16 ounces salsa, divided (I used chunky, medium heat)
• 1 pound soft flour tortilla shells (about 10 tortillas, 7-inches in diameter each)
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Fresh cilantro, finely minced for garnishing

Setup & Equipment

Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Large skillet – for sautéing vegetables and mixing the filling.
• Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring and combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Large mixing bowl – to combine the filling ingredients.
• Serving dish – to plate your delicious burritos.

Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos — Do This Next

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and chili powder. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 3: Mix in Rice and Beans

Add the precooked rice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the skillet. Gently fold in the drained and rinsed black beans and the can of Rotel tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is heated through.

Step 4: Incorporate Salsa

Pour in 8 ounces of the salsa (reserve the rest for serving) and mix well to combine. Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated.

Step 5: Assemble the Burritos

Lay a soft tortilla shell on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the filling into the center of the tortilla, making sure not to overfill. Sprinkle with shredded Mexican cheese blend.

Step 6: Roll It Up

Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom up to enclose the filling. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by the reserved salsa. Enjoy the flavors and textures in every mouthful!

Swap Guide

Feel free to customize your burritos with these swapping ideas:

• Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed alternative.
• Swap black beans for pinto beans or any beans of your choice.
• For a spicy kick, add jalapeños to the filling or top with spicy salsa.
• Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.

Little Things that Matter

Here are a few tips to elevate your burrito-making experience:

• Make sure to rinse your black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
• Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling to prevent soggy tortillas.
• Experiment with additional toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded lettuce.
• Don’t skip the fresh cilantro; it adds a burst of flavor that ties everything together!

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how you can save and enjoy them later:

• Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Assemble burritos and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or oven.

Questions People Ask

Can I make these burritos gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free tortillas to make your Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos gluten-free.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add cooked ground meat such as turkey or chicken to the filling for extra protein.

How do I make these burritos spicier?

For more heat, add diced jalapeños to the filling or use hot salsa instead of medium.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice works wonderfully in this recipe; just adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook.

Because You Liked This

• Vegetarian Quesadillas with Spinach and Cheese
• Easy One-Pot Mexican Rice and Beans
• Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Black Beans

Ready to Cook?

With all these tips and steps, you’re now ready to whip up a batch of Loaded Vegetarian Black Bean and Rice Burritos that will impress your family and friends. These burritos are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking adventure!