Name: Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper; 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper; 1 15 oz can Libby's Organic Black Beans, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup Libby's Organic Sweet Corn, rinsed and drained; 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; 10 burrito-sized flour tortillas

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a deliciously satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition, look no further than these Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos. This dish combines the earthy goodness of black beans and quinoa with vibrant vegetables and spices, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla and crisped to perfection. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner idea, these burritos are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to make, and with a few adjustments, you can customize them to your liking!

The Upside of Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos

These burritos are bursting with flavor and nutrition. The combination of black beans and quinoa provides a hearty source of protein and fiber, making them filling and satisfying. Plus, they are versatile and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner, making them a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. Not to mention, they are a hit at gatherings, making them a great choice for your next family get-together or potluck. You can serve them with a side of Creamy Avocado Yogurt Dip that adds a refreshing creaminess to each bite.

The Essentials

To create your own batch of Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos, you will need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1 (15 oz) can Libby’s Organic Black Beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup Libby’s Organic Sweet Corn, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
10 burrito-sized flour tortillas

Must-Have Equipment

To make the cooking process smoother, gather these essential tools:

Large skillet – for sautéing the vegetables and mixing the filling.
Spatula – for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Mixing bowl – to combine all the filling ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurately measuring ingredients.
Oven or air fryer – for crisping the burritos to perfection.

How to Prepare Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos

Follow these steps to whip up your Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos:

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Begin by cooking your quinoa according to the package instructions. Usually, you’ll want to combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the water is absorbed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add the Peppers and Beans

Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the rinsed black beans, sweet corn, chili powder, cumin, fresh cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 4: Combine with Quinoa

Once the quinoa has finished cooking, stir it into the vegetable and bean mixture. This is where the magic happens! Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Burritos

Lay out the flour tortillas and spoon a generous amount of the quinoa mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Top with a sprinkle of shredded Cheddar cheese, then fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to form a burrito.

Step 6: Crisp the Burritos

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your air fryer. Arrange the burritos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If using an air fryer, cook them in batches at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

Make It Your Way

These Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos are incredibly adaptable! Here are some ideas for customization:

Swap out black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas.
Add diced zucchini or corn for extra veggies.
Mix in cooked chicken or ground turkey for added protein.
Use different types of cheese, such as Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
Try whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a healthier twist.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

To ensure your Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Not draining the canned beans and corn properly can result in a soggy filling.
Overfilling the burritos can make them difficult to roll and may lead to leaks.
Not allowing the quinoa to cool slightly before mixing can lead to overly mushy burritos.
Baking at too high a temperature can cause the tortillas to burn before the filling is heated through.

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you find yourself with leftover Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos, here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate any leftover burritos in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, though the crispiness may be lost.

If you want to freeze burritos, wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should last up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

Common Qs About Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos

Can I make these burritos vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep them entirely plant-based.

What can I serve with these burritos?

These burritos pair wonderfully with a side of Creamy Avocado Yogurt Dip, fresh salsa, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake the burritos when you’re ready to serve.

Are these burritos gluten-free?

To make Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos gluten-free, simply use gluten-free tortillas and check that your spices are certified gluten-free.

Keep Cooking

If you enjoyed making these Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos, you’ll love trying out some of these other recipes:

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Crispy Black Bean Quinoa Burritos, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits. These burritos are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors, colors, and textures that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!