Copycat Burrito Brothers Big-Beef Burrito

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Burrito Brothers started in the 1960s in California, serving only tacos, quesadillas, and their soon-to-be-famous Big-Beef burrito. The seasoning blend is key to copying this Cali-style recipe.

photo of Burrito Brothers Big-Beef Burrito

serves/makes:

ready in:
30-60 minutes

3 reviews

ingredients

3/4 pound ground beef
2 teaspoons dried onion flakes
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon Accent
1/4 teaspoon dehydrated garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pinch ground oregano
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup canned, diced green chilies
1/2 cup water
6 (10-inch size) flour tortillas, warmed

directions

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.

Add the seasonings, tomato sauce, green chiles, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.

To serve, place 1/4 cup of the beef filling on a flour tortilla shell. Fold the sides in, then roll the tortilla up from the bottom. Serve hot with sour cream and hot sauce.

recipe tips

Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper.

Serve the copycat burrito with a side of Mexican rice or a salad for a complete meal.

Warm the tortillas just before serving to keep them soft and pliable for rolling.

common recipe questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of dehydrated garlic?

Yes, fresh garlic can be used instead of dehydrated garlic. Use 1-2 cloves minced garlic for every 1/4 teaspoon of dehydrated garlic. The dehydrated garlic works well in this recipe because of the long simmering time and fresh garlic may start to lose its pungency.

How can I warm the flour tortillas?

To warm the flour tortillas, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for a few seconds, or heat them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side.

Can I make the beef filling in advance?

Yes, the beef filling can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before assembling the burritos.

How can I prevent the burrito from falling apart when rolling it?

To prevent the burrito from falling apart when rolling, fold the sides in first, then roll the tortilla up tightly from the bottom, tucking in the filling as you go. Also make sure to not overfill the tortilla if you are adding anything other than the 1/4 cup of beef filling.

tools needed

Skillet: For browning the ground beef over medium-high heat. A large skillet is recommended to allow for sufficient space to cook the meat and other ingredients.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients like the dried onion flakes, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, tomato sauce, diced green chiles, and water.

Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ground beef while cooking and mixing in the seasonings and other ingredients.

Colander: To drain the excess grease from the cooked ground beef after browning.

Tortilla Warmer or Clean Dish Towels: To keep the tortillas warm while you prepare the filling.

what goes with it?

Sour Cream: A classic accompaniment for burritos, the cool creaminess of sour cream balances the spicy and savory flavors of the beef filling.

Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds a layer of flavor with its fresh avocados, which work especially well with the spices from the burrito.

Spanish Rice: Serve alongside the burritos for a filling and comforting combo. The mild flavors of seasoned rice create a nice base for the more robust flavors of the burrito.

Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans can be served as a side or even as an additional filling in the burrito. They provide a hearty texture that pairs perfectly with the beef.

Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime adds a burst of freshness to each bite.

Hot Sauce: A variety of hot sauces can boost the flavor of the burrito, allowing spice lovers to customize their heat levels.

Queso Dip: A warm, spicy cheese dip works great for dipping chips or drizzling over the burritos, adding creaminess and richness.

Fried Plantains: The sweetness of batter-fried plantains provide a nice contrast to the savory burrito filling.

nutrition data

408 calories, 17 grams fat, 46 grams carbohydrates, 17 grams protein per serving.

reviews & comments

Bonanacroi REVIEW:
January 26, 2009

Great Recipe. I too am a fan of Burrito bros in Gainesville, used to live on it in college. My wife has had the burritos shipped to me. Is this recipe a take of the G-Ville store? The only thing I left out wa the Accent, I don't like to add MSG. Also, i was out of Cayenne so I used Chipotle powder.
manvo REVIEW:
December 9, 2007

This recipe is so easy to cook and it turned out fantastic. Very nice consistency to the burrito filling. I would recommend this recipe without question to any mexican food lovers. enjoy. n.
Ronny REVIEW:
January 21, 2007

Meg, First, thanks for your recipe. I live in Gainesville, FL where there is a Burrito Brothers and was really looking forward to making something that tastes just like theres. Looks like there may be more than one Burrito Brothers? Anyway, the taste is great and made a good meal and lunch for the next day (I doubled the amount) but the Buritto Brothers here in G'ville serve their burrito's more dry with a distinct flavor. I think the water and Ketchup made it more wet. Thanks for the recipe though. Ronny

Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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