Ah, freezer burritos. A true lifesaver on those chaotic weeknights when cooking feels like an insurmountable task. These Easy Rice and Beans Freezer Burritos are your answer to a quick, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and convenience. And the best part? You can customize them to fit your cravings or whatever you’ve got in the fridge. Let’s dive in!
How to Customize Your Freezer Burrito
The beauty of freezer burritos lies in their versatility. Want to add some spicy grilled chicken or leftover carne asada? Go for it. Craving melty cheese with a little jalapeño kick? Toss it in. Black beans, pinto beans, or even refried beans can all take the spotlight here. And for the veggie lovers out there—throw in some roasted peppers, sautéed spinach, or whatever veggies you need to use up.
Make it your own! Play around with sauces like salsa verde, smoky chipotle, or a tangy tomato-based salsa. Remember, it’s your canvas.
Tips for Making, Reheating, and Serving Freezer Burritos
Let’s get to the key part—making these bad boys freezer-friendly!
- Cool the filling: Always cool your rice and beans completely before assembling your burritos. Trust me, this little step prevents a soggy, sad burrito.
- Wrap like a pro: To prevent freezer burn, tightly wrap each burrito in aluminum foil, followed by a layer of plastic wrap or a ziplock freezer bag.
- Reheat with care: When reheating, unwrap the burrito from the foil and microwave for a minute or two. If you prefer crispier tortillas, finish them off in a hot skillet or oven for that golden brown crunch.
- Serve these with guacamole, sour cream, or even a handful of crunchy tortilla chips for the ultimate meal.
How To Involve Kids in Freezer Burrito Assembly
This is a perfect opportunity to bring the little ones into the kitchen. Kids love the idea of making their own burrito, and it’s a fantastic way to teach them about ingredients and how meals come together.
- Setup a burrito assembly line: Place bowls of the fillings out and let the kids pick what they want in their burritos. The trick? Make sure everything is portioned out, so they don’t go overboard with the fillings.
- Rolling fun: Teach them how to fold the burrito tightly (and give them a few practice tortillas—it’s all part of the learning process!). They’ll enjoy the sense of accomplishment, and you’ll get a helping hand in the kitchen.
Why We’re Fans of Freezer Burritos
Honestly, what’s not to love? These freezer burritos offer a fast, easy, and delicious meal that you can customize endlessly. Whether you’re rushing out the door or just need something simple after a long day, having a stockpile of these in your freezer will save the day.
Plus, they’re easy to batch-cook, making them a lifesaver for meal-prepping parents, busy professionals, or anyone who loves a quick, homemade meal on the go.
Effortless Rice and Beans Freezer Burritos
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or even a spiced variety)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combo)
- 1/2 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
- 8 large flour tortillas
- Optional add-ins: cooked chicken, beef, veggies, hot sauce, or sour cream
Method:
When ready to eat, unwrap and microwave until heated through—don’t forget to finish it off in the oven or a skillet for that extra crispy touch!
Start by warming your tortillas, so they’re soft and pliable—this makes wrapping easier!
Lay out each tortilla and spread an even layer of rice, followed by a generous spoonful of beans, some cheese, and salsa. (Here’s where you can add any extras too—like meat or veggies.)
Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. Boom! You’ve got a burrito.
Wrap each burrito in foil and store it in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer.