Who doesn’t love a hearty, satisfying burrito? Our potato burrito recipe takes this classic comfort food to the next level with its perfect blend of creamy, seasoned potatoes and bold, flavorful toppings. It’s a delicious twist on the traditional burrito that’s budget-friendly and incredibly easy to make.
Potatoes have been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries, and for good reason—they’re versatile, filling, and pair beautifully with so many ingredients. In this recipe, we combine them with spices, beans, and fresh veggies to create a burrito that’s both wholesome and crave-worthy.
Potato Burrito Recipe
Ingredients
Here is what we’ll need to make these flavorful potato burritos:
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 1/2 cup salsa (mild or spicy based on preference)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Stir to coat them in oil evenly.
- Sprinkle the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the potatoes.
- Stir and cook the potatoes for 12-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and fork-tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Once the potatoes are cooked, add the black beans and canned corn into the skillet.
- Stir well and cook for 3-5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Add the salsa and mix thoroughly. Let it heat through for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
- Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds until pliable.
- Lay one tortilla flat and spoon 1/4 of the potato mixture into the center.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over the filling.
- Add a dollop of sour cream (if using), a few avocado slices, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
Step 4: Wrap the Burrito
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling.
- Roll the bottom edge tightly up and over the filling, tucking it in as you go, to form a burrito.
Step 5: Optional: Grill the Burrito
- For a crispy exterior, place the wrapped burrito seam-side down in a heated skillet.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the potato burritos hot with extra salsa, guacamole, or a side salad.
- For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce inside your burrito.
Key Element | Details |
---|---|
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 20 minutes |
Total Time | 35 minutes |
Serving Size | Makes 4 burritos |
Ingredients
Let’s gather everything we need to make these irresistible potato burritos. Below, we’ve broken the ingredients into sections for the filling, tortilla, and optional toppings for ease.
For The Filling
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup black beans, cooked or canned, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sweet corn, fresh, canned, or frozen (thawed)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For The Tortilla
- 4 large flour tortillas, soft and pliable
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced or mashed
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
- A drizzle of hot sauce, optional for spice lovers
- A handful of shredded lettuce, for crunch
Tools And Equipment
To prepare our Potato Burrito Recipe efficiently, we need to ensure we have the right tools and equipment on hand. Having these items ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools you’ll need and their specific roles in creating this dish:
Essential Tools
- Chef’s knife: For dicing potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and other vegetables.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for safe chopping and slicing.
- Large skillet: Used for cooking the seasoned potatoes and sautéing vegetables if needed.
- Mixing bowl: For tossing the potatoes with olive oil and spices before cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring and flipping the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
- Colander: For draining and rinsing the black beans and corn.
- Grater (optional): If using shredded cheese as a topping, this will be handy.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To ensure accuracy when measuring spices, oil, and other ingredients.
- Tongs: Helpful for assembling and folding the burritos neatly.
- Foil or parchment paper: Used for wrapping burritos if they need to be grilled or stored.
Optional Equipment for Enhancements
- Grill pan: For adding those desirable char marks to the tortillas for a smoky flavor.
- Potato masher: If a creamy potato texture is preferred, you can partly mash the cooked potatoes.
- Blender or food processor: To prepare fresh salsa or creamy avocado sauce as a side.
- Instant-read thermometer: Ensures food is cooked to the right temperature for serving.
Overview of Tools
Tool | Purpose |
---|---|
Chef’s knife | Dicing vegetables and prepping ingredients |
Cutting board | Safe chopping surface |
Large skillet | Cooking seasoned potatoes and filling |
Mixing bowl | Tossing potatoes with spices and olive oil |
Wooden spoon/spatula | Stirring and ensuring even cooking |
Colander | Rinsing and draining beans and corn |
Grater (optional) | Shredding cheese for topping |
Measuring spoons and cups | Accurate measurement of ingredients |
Tongs | Assembling and folding burritos evenly |
Foil/parchment paper | Wrapping burritos for grilling or storage |
With these tools in our kitchen, we can prepare a seamless and stress-free potato burrito-making experience.
Directions
Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create a delicious Potato Burrito that’s packed with flavor and easy to customize. We’ll guide you through prepping, cooking, assembling, and even enhancing your dish.
Prep
- Dice the potatoes: Peel and cut 3 medium russet potatoes into ½-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop 1 large onion and dice 1 red bell pepper. Drain and rinse 1 cup of canned black beans and 1 cup of canned corn.
- Gather spices: Measure out 1 teaspoon each of smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Warm 4–6 large flour tortillas by wrapping them in foil and placing them in an oven preheated to 200°F, or warming them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side.
Cooking Tip: Use a sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board to ensure clean, even cuts when prepping your ingredients.
Cook
- Sauté the potatoes: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and sauté for 10–12 minutes until golden and cooked through. Stir frequently to ensure they don’t stick.
- Cook the vegetables: Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the other side. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Blend the flavors: Mix the vegetables with the potatoes, then sprinkle the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder evenly over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything with the spices.
- Add the black beans and corn, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
Step | Time Estimate | Details |
---|---|---|
Sauté potatoes | 10–12 min | Cook until golden and tender, stirring often. |
Cook veggies | 5 min | Soften onions and bell peppers. |
Add beans/corn | 2 min | Stir in and heat until warmed through. |
Pro Tip: Use medium heat to avoid burning the spices and ensure a well-balanced flavor in the filling.
Assemble
- Fill the tortillas: Lay each warmed tortilla flat. Spoon ½–⅔ cup of the potato mixture into the center of the tortilla.
- Add your toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice), a dollop of sour cream, and slices of fresh avocado—or any optional toppings you love.
- Fold into a burrito: Fold the sides in first, then roll the burrito tightly from the bottom up.
Topping Ideas: Salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, hot sauce, or lime juice can add even more bold flavors.
Optional Enhancements
- Grill the burritos: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down and cook for 2 minutes on each side for a crispy, golden exterior.
- Blend a sauce: Use a blender or food processor to create a spicy chipotle crema by combining 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce with ½ cup sour cream and a squeeze of lime juice. Drizzle over the burritos before serving.
- Make it extra cheesy: Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top and broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing components of our potato burrito recipe in advance can save time and make assembly effortless on busy days. Follow these steps to efficiently prep ahead while preserving the flavors and textures:
1. Pre-Cook the Potatoes
We can cook the potatoes up to 3 days ahead:
- Peel and dice 2 cups of russet potatoes, rinsing them to remove excess starch.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet, add potatoes, and cook until golden and tender, about 12-15 minutes.
- Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator.
2. Prep Other Burrito Filling Ingredients
- Black Beans and Corn: Rinse and drain 1 cup of black beans and 1 cup of corn. Store in separate airtight containers in the fridge.
- Vegetables: Dice 1 small onion and 1 medium bell pepper. Store together in a container or resealable bag.
- Cheese: Shred 1 cup of sharp cheddar or any preferred cheese and refrigerate in a covered container.
3. Prepare Optional Toppings
Toppings enhance flavors, so preparing them earlier is helpful:
- Slice avocado just before serving to prevent browning, but you can pre-make guacamole and store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed to the surface to minimize air contact.
- Chop fresh cilantro and refrigerate in a damp paper towel-lined bag.
- Sour Cream or Salsa: Store as-is in their original packaging until assembly.
4. Assemble in Advance or Store Separately
For fully prepped make-ahead potato burritos:
- Lay out each flour tortilla and spread cooled potatoes, beans, corn, veggies, and cheese evenly in the center.
- Roll the burritos tightly, wrapping each one in foil to retain moisture.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat Instructions:
- Remove the foil (for microwave heating): Heat a refrigerated burrito for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- To crisp frozen burritos, reheat on a skillet for 5-8 minutes over medium heat, flipping frequently.
At-a-Glance Storage Guide
Item | Refrigerator (max days) | Freezer (max months) |
---|---|---|
Potatoes (cooked) | 3 days | 1 month |
Pre-assembled Burritos | 2 days | 3 months |
Guacamole | 2 days | Not recommended |
By incorporating these make-ahead instructions, we’ll simplify prep while locking in the irresistible tastes of our potato burrito recipe.
Storage And Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating can ensure our potato burritos maintain their flavorful fillings and delicious textures. Follow these tips to keep your burritos fresh and convenient for quick meals.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Wrap individual burritos tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
- Place the wrapped burritos in an airtight container or resealable bag.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing:
- For long-term storage, freeze the burritos by wrapping them in aluminum foil and then placing them into a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking. Frozen burritos can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Toppings:
- If using fresh toppings like sour cream or guacamole, store them separately in airtight containers. These additions are best added after reheating to maintain freshness and flavor.
Reheating Tips
To enjoy your potato burritos with the same delicious taste:
Reheating Method | Steps | Best For |
---|---|---|
Microwave | 1. Unwrap and place burrito on a microwave-safe plate. 2. Cover with a paper towel to prevent drying. 3. Heat on high for 1–2 minutes, flipping halfway. |
Quick meals, soft tortillas |
Oven | 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Keep burrito wrapped in foil and place it on a baking sheet. 3. Heat for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. |
Crisp tortillas, even reheating |
Stovetop/Grill | 1. Unwrap and place on a hot skillet or grill pan. 2. Cook on medium heat for 3–5 minutes per side. |
Crispy exterior, toasted tortillas |
Pro Tips
- When reheating from frozen, thaw the burritos in the refrigerator overnight for better results.
- Add a splash of water inside the foil or on the plate to keep the filling moist and prevent dryness during reheating.
- For an enhanced flavor, reheat the burritos in a skillet with a bit of butter or olive oil to achieve a golden, crispy shell.
By following these storage and reheating techniques, we can savor every bite of these comforting potato burritos, no matter how busy our schedules are.
Conclusion
Potato burritos bring together comfort, flavor, and versatility in one satisfying dish. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for busy days.
By customizing toppings and utilizing proper storage techniques, we can enjoy these delicious burritos fresh or reheated without compromising taste. They’re a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing option that never disappoints. Let’s get cooking and savor every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this potato burrito recipe unique?
This recipe stands out because it combines creamy, seasoned potatoes with bold toppings like cheese, sour cream, and avocado. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and easy to customize, making it perfect for any meal.
Can I make the potato burrito filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato filling, black beans, corn, and vegetables in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days to save time during assembly.
What toppings work best for potato burritos?
Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, and avocado. You can also add hot sauce, chipotle crema, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.
How do I store leftover burritos?
Wrap leftover burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat potato burritos?
For reheating, use a microwave, oven, or stovetop. For crispy edges, heat on a grill pan or skillet. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option. For a vegan version, skip the cheese and sour cream or replace them with plant-based alternatives.
Do I need specific equipment for this recipe?
You’ll need a chef’s knife, cutting board, skillet, mixing bowl, and measuring tools. Optional tools like a grill pan or blender can enhance the cooking process.
How do I add more spice to the burritos?
You can increase the spice level by adding extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or spicy salsa. A drizzle of chipotle crema also adds a flavorful kick.
Can these burritos be frozen for meal prep?
Yes, they’re excellent for meal prep! Wrap assembled burritos tightly, freeze them in airtight containers, and reheat as needed for a quick, delicious meal.
Are grilled burritos better than soft ones?
Grilling the burritos gives them a crispy exterior and enhances their flavor, but soft burritos are equally delicious. It depends on your preference.