Randy Chandler
A classic bean and cheese burrito is a delicious, quick, and easy meal. The best cheese for a bean and cheese burrito is a matter of personal preference, but popular options include cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. For the beans, pinto beans are the traditional choice, but black beans also work well. The beans are typically refried and seasoned with spices such as cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, and the burrito is often served with toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and hot sauce.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of cheese | Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Mozerella, Mexican Cheese blend, Queso Quesadilla, Cotija, Mozzarella, Cojita |
| Type of beans | Pinto, Black, Buttery canned pinto |
| Other ingredients | Diced onions, Salsa, Garlic powder, Smoked paprika, Salt, Pepper, Sour cream, Hot sauce, Guacamole, Chicken broth, Olive oil, Chili powder, Cumin, Oregano, Red enchilada sauce, Lime juice, Avocado, Pico de gallo, Cherry tomatoes, Jalapeños, Green onions, Cilantro |
| Tortilla size | 8-12 inches in diameter |
| Tortilla type | Flour tortilla |
| Cooking method | Oven, Stovetop, Air fryer, Microwave |
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What You'll Learn
- The best cheeses for beans and cheese burritos include cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, and Mexican blends
- Mozzarella, cojita, and queso or Chihuahua cheese are also popular options
- Freshly grated cheese melts better and is usually more affordable
- A 50/50 ratio of cheese to beans is recommended for a generous amount of cheese
- Beans and cheese burritos can be baked or pan-fried, and served with toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream
The best cheeses for beans and cheese burritos include cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, and Mexican blends
When it comes to crafting the perfect bean and cheese burrito, the cheese you choose can make all the difference. The best cheeses for beans and cheese burritos include cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, and Mexican blends.
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for burritos, as its sharp flavour and melting capabilities elevate the dish. Shredding or grating the cheddar yourself can result in a better melt and a more even distribution of cheese throughout the burrito. For those who prefer to buy pre-shredded cheese, Tillamook Farmstyle Shreds are recommended as they melt well and don't have coatings that can hinder the perfect melt.
Monterey Jack is another excellent option for bean and cheese burritos. It has a mild and creamy flavour that pairs well with the other ingredients in the burrito. Monterey Jack is also a good substitute for queso Chihuahua, a classic Mexican melting cheese that can be challenging to find in certain regions.
For those who enjoy a little spice, Pepper Jack is a flavourful choice. It adds a nice kick to the burrito without overwhelming the other ingredients. Mexican blends, which often include a combination of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, and queso quesadilla, can also be used to add a complex and authentic flavour to your burrito.
When preparing your bean and cheese burrito, it is recommended to spread the refried beans in the centre of the tortilla and then top them with shredded cheese. This ensures that the cheese melts evenly and creates a delicious, gooey texture. The burrito can then be rolled, pan-fried, or baked to achieve a golden, crispy exterior and a warm, melted interior.
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Mozzarella, cojita, and queso or Chihuahua cheese are also popular options
Mozzarella, cojita, and queso or Chihuahua cheese are versatile and popular options for a beans and cheese burrito.
Mozzarella is a soft, stretchy, and stringy cheese that can add a gooey texture to the burrito. It pairs well with Monterey Jack, which has a mild flavour and good melting properties. This combination can be an excellent choice for those who want a balanced taste and a creamy, stretchy texture.
Cojita cheese, also known as "cotija" cheese, adds a salty and delicious touch to the burrito. It is a traditional Mexican cheese that is often used as a topping or garnish. Cojita cheese has a crumbly texture and a strong, salty flavour, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a savoury and flavourful bite.
Queso, or Chihuahua cheese, is another classic Mexican melting cheese. It is similar to Monterey Jack, making it a suitable substitute for those who cannot find Chihuahua cheese in their region. Queso or Chihuahua cheese has a mild and creamy flavour, making it a versatile option for those who want a creamy and smooth texture in their beans and cheese burrito.
These cheese options can be used individually or combined to create unique flavour profiles and textures. They are easily accessible and widely used in Mexican cuisine, making them popular choices for those who want an authentic and tasty beans and cheese burrito experience.
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Freshly grated cheese melts better and is usually more affordable
Freshly Grated Cheese for Beans and Cheese Burritos
When it comes to crafting the perfect bean and cheese burrito, the choice of cheese is crucial. While pre-shredded cheese may be convenient, freshly grated cheese has several advantages that make it the superior option. Firstly, freshly grated cheese melts better, resulting in a gooey and indulgent texture that is essential for a satisfying burrito experience. The melting ability of freshly grated cheese ensures that each bite is oozing with flavour and creaminess.
Additionally, freshly grated cheese tends to be more affordable than its pre-shredded counterpart. By purchasing a block of cheese and grating it yourself, you can often get more for your money. This is because pre-shredded cheese usually comes with a higher price tag due to the added convenience and processing. With freshly grated cheese, you can also control the size and thickness of the shreds, allowing you to customise the melting behaviour to your preference.
The type of cheese you choose also plays a significant role in the overall taste and texture of the burrito. For a classic bean and cheese burrito, a combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack is a popular choice. The sharp, deep flavour of aged cheddar adds a distinctive tang to the burrito, while Monterey Jack, a classic Mexican melting cheese, contributes to the creamy texture. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even mix in some mozzarella or try other varieties like queso Chihuahua, which is similar to Monterey Jack.
To elevate your bean and cheese burrito even further, consider freshly grating your cheese directly from a block of cheddar. This ensures maximum flavour and meltability. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents or other additives that can impact its melting properties and overall taste. By grating your own cheese, you can avoid these unwanted coatings and end up with a more authentic and delicious burrito.
In conclusion, freshly grated cheese is the key to crafting the ultimate bean and cheese burrito. Its superior melting ability creates a decadent and indulgent texture, enhancing the overall taste experience. Additionally, freshly grated cheese is typically more affordable, allowing you to indulge in your burrito cravings without breaking the bank. So, the next time you're assembling this classic dish, take the extra step to grate your own cheese—your taste buds will thank you!
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A 50/50 ratio of cheese to beans is recommended for a generous amount of cheese
The first step in assembling a bean and cheese burrito is to prepare the bean mixture. This involves combining refried beans with spices, salsa, and diced onions. For the beans, pinto beans are a popular choice, but black beans or canned refried beans can also be used. The beans should be warmed in a skillet over low heat and mashed to achieve a creamy consistency.
Once the bean mixture is ready, it's time to assemble the burrito. Start by placing a tortilla on a clean work surface. Spread approximately 1/3 cup of the bean mixture in the centre of the tortilla, creating a slight indent or divot in the beans. This indent will hold the enchilada sauce and prevent it from spilling out.
Now, it's time to add the cheese. For a 50/50 ratio, use shredded cheese and spread approximately 1/4 cup in the middle of the tortilla. You can use a single type of cheese or a combination of cheeses for added flavour. Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, and Mozerella are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with different varieties.
After adding the cheese, it's time to roll the burrito. First, fold in the sides of the tortilla, and then start rolling from the bottom, ensuring that the fillings stay securely inside. Continue rolling until the burrito is seam-side down.
Finally, cook the burrito in a skillet or oven to achieve a slightly crispy exterior. The heat will melt the cheese, creating a delicious and gooey texture. Serve the burrito with your favourite toppings, such as guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce, and enjoy the perfect combination of beans and cheese!
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Beans and cheese burritos can be baked or pan-fried, and served with toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream
Beans and cheese burritos are a delicious and easy meal that can be made in a variety of ways. While the specific ingredients and methods may vary, there are a few key steps to making this dish. Firstly, prepare the bean mixture by combining refried beans with spices, salsa, and other flavour enhancers. For the beans, pinto beans are a popular choice, but black beans or a combination of both can also be used. Canned beans are convenient, but homemade refried beans offer a more authentic flavour.
Next, it's time to assemble the burrito. Spread the bean mixture onto a flour tortilla, add shredded cheese, and fold. A 50/50 ratio of beans to cheese is often preferred, with cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend being popular choices. For an extra cheesy bite, some like to spread cheese onto the tortilla first, followed by the beans, so that the cheese ends up on the outside when rolled.
Now, it's time to cook. Beans and cheese burritos can be baked or pan-fried. Baking in the oven at 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit for around 12-15 minutes will give a crispy exterior, while pan-frying on a stovetop over medium-high heat will create a golden, crispy exterior with a melted cheese interior.
Finally, serve with your choice of toppings. Beans and cheese burritos pair well with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and hot sauce. For a more substantial meal, they can be served with a side of shredded lettuce, a salad, or even leftovers like chicken, beef, rice, or veggies.
Beans and cheese burritos are a versatile and satisfying meal that can be made ahead of time and frozen for later. They are a great option for those seeking a quick, easy, and customisable dish.
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Frequently asked questions
A mixture of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack is a classic combination.
Mozzarella, Pepper Jack, Cotija, or a Mexican Cheese blend are all good options.
Flour tortillas are the most commonly used, but corn tortillas are a good alternative.
The burrito can be baked in the oven or pan-fried.
Common toppings include guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and hot sauce.
