Beef and Bean Burritos

Frozen burritos were once a staple in my freezer. It was so easy to pop them into the oven or microwave for a quick meal. But the list of ingredients was a mile long. And frankly, the texture was a little scary at times.

These burritos are simple - just 5 ingredients, plus the tortillas. And they can be customized to suit your family's tastes. But best of all, they freeze wonderfully and taste delicious!

Here's what you need:

1 lb ground beef
2 cups refried beans (or one 15 oz can)
1 cup salsa - here's where you can adjust the heat if you like spicy
2 TBSP taco seasoning
1 cup shredded cheese
8 burrito sized tortillas

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain. Stir in the refried beans, salsa and taco seasoning until well blended.

Spread 1/3 cup of the mixture on the lower half of a tortilla. Sprinkle with cheese.

Fold in both sides, then roll up tightly.

Wrap the burrito in aluminum foil to bake immediately or to freeze for later. I have found it easiest to place the tortilla on the foil, then fill and roll up. Then it's a snap to wrap!

If you're serving these immediately, heat the oven to 400 degrees. Bake for 15 minutes.

If freezing for later, place the foil-wrapped burritos in a freezer bag. These will keep in the freezer for up to 6 months. You have some options for reheating them. Pick the one that is easiest for you!

You can thaw them completely in the fridge overnight. Pop them into a 400 degree oven for 15 minutes.

Unwrap from the foil, then put them into the microwave to defrost. Heat in the oven as directed above.

Or, if you want to reheat them from their frozen state, put them in the oven for about an hour. This method with ensure that you get some crispy goodness on the outside.