Name: Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground turkey; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup salsa or diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) refried beans; 1 cup cooked rice (optional); 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese; ½ cup sour cream; 6 large flour tortillas; Chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or hot sauce for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.2 from 46 reviews

If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with the bold flavors of the South, you’ve got to try this Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans Recipe. These burritos bring together tender, spiced ground turkey and creamy refried beans wrapped in warm tortillas, creating a delightful explosion of taste and texture in every bite. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal that the whole family will love, this recipe offers a perfect balance of protein, spice, and comfort food vibes that feel like a warm hug.

Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first exciting step in preparing this Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans Recipe. Each component is simple but plays a crucial role in layering flavor, texture, and vibrant color, making each bite unforgettable.

Olive oil: For sautéing and bringing out the flavors of the spices and turkey.
Ground turkey: The lean protein base that absorbs all the warm, southern spices beautifully.
Small onion (diced): Adds a sweet and savory depth when softened.
Garlic cloves (minced): Provides a punch of aromatic flavor that brightens the dish.
Chili powder: Gives a smoky, mild heat that ties Southern flavors together.
Cumin: Adds earthiness and complexity for that authentic Tex-Mex flair.
Smoked paprika: Contributes a subtle smoky richness enhancing the turkey’s savoriness.
Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the filling.
Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and sharpness to elevate the taste.
Refried beans (15 oz can): Creamy and comforting, blending perfectly with the seasoned turkey.
Cooked rice (optional): Adds extra texture and makes the burritos even more filling.
Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts inside the burrito for a gooey, irresistible finish.
Salsa or diced tomatoes: Brings freshness and a tangy zing to the filling.
Sour cream: Creamy topper that balances the spices.
Large flour tortillas: The soft, flexible wrap that holds everything together beautifully.
Chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or hot sauce (optional): Perfect finishing touches to elevate your burrito experience.

How to Make Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Cook the Turkey

Begin by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Softening diced onions for about 3 to 4 minutes unlocks their natural sweetness, making the dish richer. Next, add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant—this sets a flavorful foundation. Toss in the ground turkey, breaking it apart as it browns evenly. This process takes about 6 to 8 minutes, ensuring your protein is fully cooked and nicely golden.

Step 2: Infuse the Spices and Add the Tomatoes

Once your turkey is cooked, it’s time to layer in those signature Southern spices. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper directly into the skillet. Stir these spices thoroughly to coat the meat and bring out their deep, smoky notes. Then, add your salsa or diced tomatoes, letting the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This melds the flavors and adds a vibrant, saucy touch.

Step 3: Incorporate the Refried Beans

Lower the heat to a cozy simmer and stir in the refried beans. Mixing them until heated through gives you that creamy texture that complements the spiced turkey perfectly. Once everything is beautifully combined, you can remove the skillet from the heat and get ready to assemble your burritos.

Step 4: Assemble and Toast the Burritos

Warm your flour tortillas slightly to make folding effortless. Spoon a generous portion of the turkey and bean mixture into each one. Layer on shredded cheese, a spoonful of cooked rice if you’re using it, and a dollop of sour cream. Roll them up carefully, folding in the sides to keep the filling secure. For an extra special touch, place the burritos seam-side down on a preheated skillet or griddle for a couple of minutes per side until the tortillas are golden and crispy. This step adds a delightful crunch and melts the cheese inside beautifully.

How to Serve Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like vibrant chopped cilantro, creamy diced avocado, or a drizzle of spicy hot sauce turns your burritos from great to memorable. These toppings add fresh contrast, textural balance, and a pop of color that make the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

Pair these Southern Turkey Burritos with a simple side salad, Mexican street corn, or even a bowl of tortilla chips and guacamole. The creamy beans inside the burrito harmonize wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides that lighten the meal and keep your taste buds dancing.

Creative Ways to Present

Your Southern Turkey Burritos don’t have to stop at traditional wrapping. Try turning them into burrito bowls by skipping the tortilla and layering all the fillings over rice. Another fun idea is to slice the burritos into bite-sized pinwheels—perfect for parties or a fun family snack that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your fresh burritos, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen, and you’ll find the taste even more satisfying the next day.

Freezing

For meal prep or busy days, individually wrap burritos in foil or plastic wrap and freeze them. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. This makes it easy to defrost a quick, wholesome meal in no time!

Reheating

Reheat frozen burritos by removing the wrapping and microwaving for a couple of minutes or warming them in a 350°F oven until heated through. If frozen before toasting, you can crisp them briefly on a skillet afterward to regain that delicious crunch.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will work similarly, although turkey tends to hold spices a bit better. Just adjust cooking times to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Is it necessary to use refried beans in this recipe?

While refried beans add creaminess and depth, you can swap them with black beans or pinto beans mashed slightly if you prefer a different texture or want a lighter version.

Can I make these burritos vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the turkey and add extra beans, sautéed veggies, or a meat substitute to keep the filling hearty and delicious.

What’s the best way to warm tortillas for rolling?

Wrap them in a clean towel and microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm each on a dry skillet for a few seconds per side to make them soft and pliable.

Can I prepare these burritos ahead for a party?

Definitely. Assemble the burritos a few hours in advance or the day before, keep them wrapped, and toast them just before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that brings together the soulful flavors of the South with the comforting charm of a burrito, this Southern Turkey Burritos with Refried Beans Recipe is your new best friend. Easy to prepare, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for sharing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’re going to love every flavorful bite!