Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm burrito, especially when it’s packed with flavors that remind you of home. This Southern Turkey Burrito recipe is a delightful combination of seasoned ground turkey, refried beans, and all the classic toppings that make burritos a beloved dish. I remember the first time I made these for my family; the kitchen was filled with delicious aromas, and by the time dinner rolled around, everyone was eagerly waiting at the table. The kids couldn’t get enough of the cheesy goodness, while the adults appreciated the healthy twist with ground turkey and beans. It’s become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (16-ounce) cans pinto beans, undrained
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 3 cups cooked white rice
• 8 flour or corn tortillas
• Sour cream
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 (16-ounce) jar tomato salsa

Instructions

Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 2.5 minutes.

Cook Beans

3. Stir in the undrained pinto beans along with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 7-10 minutes, allowing the beans to soften.
5. Use a potato masher to partially mash the beans for a creamier texture.
6. Continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Cook Ground Turkey

7. In a separate skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
8. Add any remaining spices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
9. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare Ingredients

10. Divide the cooked rice and shredded cheese into two medium bowls.
11. Warm the tortillas in a skillet for about 30 seconds per side until pliable.

Assemble Burritos

12. Lay a tortilla on a clean surface.
13. Add a line of turkey, beans, rice, and cheese.
14. Top with sour cream, salsa, cilantro, and lime juice (if desired).
15. Fold the bottom of the tortilla up, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly.
16. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and ingredients.

Serve

17. Serve burritos immediately, optionally with extra salsa and sour cream on the side.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 410
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro.
• Offer side dishes like:
• Extra salsa
• Light sour cream
• Guacamole
• Corn chips

Additional Tips

1. Use Lean Turkey: Opt for 93% lean ground turkey to reduce fat content while keeping the flavor.
2. Spice Adjustment: Adjust the spice levels according to your taste by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños.
3. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh cilantro and lime juice for a burst of flavor.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate for quick assembly later.
5. Sauté Veggies: Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground turkey with crumbled tofu or additional beans.
• Different Beans: Try using black beans or refried beans for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or queso fresco for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh garden salad.
• Pair with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a margarita.
• Enjoy as a party platter by cutting burritos in half and arranging them on a serving tray.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Wrap assembled burritos tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, unwrap and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

• Yes, ground beef works well, but be sure to drain excess fat.

1. What can I substitute for pinto beans?

• Black beans or kidney beans are great alternatives.

1. How can I make these burritos gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular flour or corn tortillas.

1. Can I prepare the filling in advance?

• Absolutely! The filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

1. What type of cheese is best for these burritos?

• A Mexican cheese blend works best, but feel free to use your favorite cheese.

1. How spicy are these burritos?

• They are mildly spicy; adjust spices to suit your heat preference.

1. Can I add more vegetables?

• Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can be great additions.

1. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

• Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I grill the burritos?

• Yes! Grilling adds a nice char and extra flavor.

1. How can I make these burritos healthier?

• Use whole wheat tortillas, reduce cheese, and increase the amount of veggies.

Conclusion

These Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans are not only delicious but also a hearty meal that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of seasoned turkey, creamy beans, and fresh toppings creates a flavorful experience that everyone will enjoy. So grab your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with these fantastic burritos!

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