Carne Picada Burritos

Carne Picada Burritos are loaded with flavor and spice. 

They taste just like something you’d get from takeout or something your Mexican grandma would make. 

Stick the extras in the freezer and reheat on busy weeknights for a delicious and satisfying meal. 

🥩 What Type of Beef to Use

“Carne picada” literally translated means “chopped meat.”

This is chuck roast sliced in two large pieces. It’ll be easier to chop down once it’s cooked. I recommend chuck roast because of the fat content. You can also buy a large chuck roast and chop it down. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, you can find it as the grocery store. Look for “stew meat” or “chopped beef.”

🍅 Making the Sauce

• Sear the meat in a large stock pot and set aside.
• In the same pot, heat oil. 
• Add tomatoes, garlic, onion, and jalapenos in the pot. 
• Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes are soft. 
• Blend together with water, salt and pepper. 

👩🏼‍🍳 Pro Tips

• Make the sauce ahead of time to save on time. 
• If you like it spicier, use serrano peppers or more jalapenos. 
• To make it milder, use poblano peppers or anaheim chiles instead of jalapenos.
• Use store bought tomato salsa (don’t tell my mom I said that), and blend with more water. Add salt if needed. 

Cooking the Beef

• Add the bay leaves and 4 cups of water to the pot.
• Return the beef back to the pot.
• Cover and cook for 45 minutes or until the meat is tender.
• Remove the meat and chop into small pieces.
• Then return the beef to the pot and add the sauce.
• Cook for an additional 15 minutes. 

🫙 Storing Instructions

• Store the meat and tortillas separately. Place the meat in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Or place it in a large sealable bag. Remove as much air as possible. Store in the fridge for up to 4 months. 

🔥 Reheating Instructions

• To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight (if frozen). Place in the microwave for 3-3/12 minutes, depending on your microwave. Or on the stove in a pot for 4-5 minutes. 

More Burrito Recipes

• Carnitas Burrito Recipe
• Instant Pot Shredded Beef Burritos
• Mexican Corned Beef Burritos
• California Burrito
• Durango Burritos

This is the way my mom used to roll up burritos. If you’re storing, tuck in the sides and roll up.

Carne Picada Burritos are great for meal prep and standby freezer dinners. Tender beef cooked in a spicy sauce, this recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds! 

😋 Hungry for More 

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