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Meal Prep Beef and Zucchini Burritos Recipe

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These meal prep beef burritos with zucchini are a perfect make-ahead freezer meal featuring lean ground beef, shredded zucchini, flavorful spices, and a combination of refried beans, rice, and cheese wrapped in burrito-sized tortillas. They reheat quickly for an easy, hearty dinner option ideal for busy weeknights.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 burritos

Ingredients

Vegetables and Fresh Ingredients

  • 1/2 small yellow onion, diced
  • 1 cup zucchini, shredded (from 1 small or 1/2 medium zucchini)

Meat and Protein

  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 1 can refried beans (14.5 oz.)

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic salt
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder

Other Ingredients

  • 1 cup salsa (heat level to your liking)
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice; microwaveable rice can be used)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 burrito-sized tortillas

Instructions

  1. Prepare the zucchini: Shred the zucchini and then squeeze it dry using paper towels, repeating the process about twice with 3 pieces of paper towel to remove as much excess liquid as possible. This prevents sogginess in the burritos.
  2. Cook the aromatics and beef: Heat 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil in a medium-large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until almost translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the shredded zucchini, ground beef, garlic salt, cumin, and chili powder. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks until no longer pink, approximately 5 minutes.
  3. Add salsa and reduce liquid: Stir in 1 cup of salsa and continue cooking until the liquid reduces and thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. This enhances flavor and consistency.
  4. Prepare rice and cheese: While the meat mixture cooks, prepare 2 cups of your preferred cooked rice (brown or white) and shred 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese.
  5. Assemble burritos: Lay out a tortilla and spread about 1-2 tablespoons of refried beans along the edge to help seal the burrito. Add about one-eighth of the meat mixture, rice, and a handful of shredded cheese to the center. Roll the tortilla tightly to form a burrito shape. Repeat this process for all 8 burritos.

Notes

  • Shredding and squeezing the zucchini thoroughly is key to avoid watery burritos.
  • Use lean ground beef to keep the burritos healthier and less greasy.
  • Burritos can be wrapped individually in foil and frozen for meal prep convenience; simply reheat in the microwave or oven.
  • Salsa heat level can be adjusted according to taste preferences.
  • Microwavable rice is a convenient shortcut for cooking rice quickly.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American
  • Diet: Low Fat