Get ready to fall in love with a dish that blends the heartiness of Southern comfort food with the irresistible flavors of Tex-Mex! Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans are a weeknight lifesaver, delightfully satisfying and packed with protein, fiber, and bold spices. Each bite wraps up creamy refried beans, juicy ground turkey, and gooey melted cheese, all tucked into a warm tortilla. These burritos are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anytime you crave something homemade, wholesome, and bursting with flavor. Trust me, once you try them, Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans will become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component in this recipe is simple but vital, coming together in perfect harmony. From the aromatic spices to the melty cheese, each ingredient in Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans brings something special to the table—think flavor, texture, and a splash of color that makes these burritos truly irresistible.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the aromatics to kickstart the flavor.
- Ground turkey: Lean and protein-packed, turkey absorbs the spices wonderfully for a lighter twist on classic burritos.
- Onion: Brings sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes in the pan.
- Garlic: A must-have for that warm, savory backbone every great burrito needs.
- Chili powder: Infuses the turkey with a gentle heat and classic Tex-Mex color.
- Cumin: Earthy and fragrant, cumin gives the filling its Southern soul.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: Just enough for a hint of sharpness that perks up the filling.
- Refried beans: Creamy, hearty, and the key to that iconic burrito texture.
- Salsa: Brings moisture, tang, and a pop of color to the filling.
- Water: Helps blend the beans and turkey into a perfectly scoopable mixture.
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into gooey goodness with every bite.
- Flour tortillas: The soft, pillowy wrap that holds everything together.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds color and a fresh herbal note at the finish.
- Sour cream and hot sauce (optional): Creamy and spicy toppings that make each burrito truly your own.
How to Make Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it turns soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—just long enough for that amazing aroma to fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown and cook through, which takes around 5 to 6 minutes. This is where the turkey starts soaking up all those savory onion and garlic flavors, getting ready to become the star of your Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so every bit of turkey is coated in those vibrant spices—this step gives the filling its signature warmth and boldness.
Step 4: Add Beans, Salsa, and Simmer
Now, stir in the refried beans, salsa, and water. Mix everything together until it’s creamy, smooth, and well combined. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. This is the luscious, hearty filling that makes Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans so comforting.
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
While the filling simmers, warm your flour tortillas. You can do this in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel, or briefly on a dry skillet for that extra toasty edge. Warm tortillas are key—they’re so much easier to roll and won’t split on you!
Step 6: Assemble and Roll
Spoon the hot turkey and bean mixture down the center of each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and then roll into burritos. Fold in the ends as you roll to keep all that deliciousness inside. Your Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans are now ready for the table!
How to Serve Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing, don’t hold back! A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness, while a generous dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce can take these burritos to the next level. You can even add sliced jalapeños for some extra kick or a few lime wedges for brightness.
Side Dishes
Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans pair beautifully with sides like a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or crisp corn chips with guacamole. If you want to keep it light, go for a tangy slaw or roasted veggies. These options round out the meal and make every bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the burritos in half and arrange them on a platter with vibrant salsas and dips for a party spread. Or wrap each in parchment and tie with twine for an easy, portable lunch. However you serve them, these Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans always look (and taste!) like a celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans are fantastic freezer meals. Let the burritos cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to three months. Just label and date them so you’ll always have a homemade meal ready to go!
Reheating
To reheat from the fridge, simply unwrap and microwave your burrito for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through. From frozen, you can bake them (still wrapped in foil) at 350°F for about 25 to 30 minutes. For a crispier exterior, unwrap and finish in a hot skillet for a minute or two per side.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While ground turkey makes these burritos light and protein-rich, ground chicken or beef work just as well. Just be sure to drain any excess fat if you use beef.
How do I prevent my burritos from getting soggy?
Let the filling cool slightly before assembling, and avoid overfilling the tortillas. Wrapping them in foil or parchment helps keep them intact and prevents excess moisture from softening the tortillas.
Are these burritos spicy?
Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans have a gentle warmth from the chili powder and salsa, but they’re not overly spicy. If you love heat, add extra hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the filling!
Can I add extra veggies to the filling?
Definitely! Sautéed bell peppers, corn, or even some spinach are delicious additions that bring color, crunch, and extra nutrition to your burritos.
What’s the best way to pack these burritos for lunch?
Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or parchment, and pack with a small container of salsa or sour cream on the side. They’re sturdy, portable, and taste great warm or at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing, comforting meal that’s easy to whip up and even easier to love, give Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans a try. They’re the perfect blend of hearty, wholesome, and totally crave-worthy flavors—trust me, your family and friends will be asking for these again and again!
Print
Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 burritos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, Southern
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans combine lean ground turkey with flavorful spices and creamy refried beans, wrapped in soft flour tortillas and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying Tex-Mex inspired meal that can easily be prepped ahead and frozen for convenience.
Ingredients
Protein & Beans
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup water
Others
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to release its aroma.
- Cook the turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure there are no pink parts remaining.
- Season the mixture: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the turkey with the spices and enhance the flavor.
- Add beans and salsa: Incorporate the refried beans, salsa, and water into the skillet. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are combined and the mixture is heated through.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to thicken slightly.
- Warm the tortillas: While the filling simmers, warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a dry skillet over medium heat to make them pliable and easier to roll.
- Assemble the burritos: Spoon a generous amount of the turkey and bean mixture down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. Roll the tortilla up tightly to enclose the filling.
- Serve: Serve the burritos warm, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Offer sour cream and hot sauce on the side for additional flavor options.
Notes
- These burritos can be prepped ahead of time and frozen. Wrap each burrito tightly in foil and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
- For added texture and flavor, you can include cooked rice, corn, or sautéed bell peppers in the filling.
- Omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese to make the recipe dairy-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 630 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
