The Best Slow Cooker Beef Burritos for Busy Nights

Slow Cooker Beef Burritos deliver tender, shreddable beef wrapped in cheesy, saucy perfection—and it only takes a few minutes of active prep! This recipe is one of my secret weapons for hectic weeknights because the slow cooker handles the heavy lifting while you go about your day. Trust me, once you’ve made these, your burrito cravings will never involve takeout again.

I built this crockpot beef burritos recipe around keeping things simple without sacrificing flavor. Traditional beef burritos involve stovetop simmering or tons of extra steps, but who has time for that? Set it, forget it, and enjoy fall-apart beef that’s begging to be rolled into a cheesy burrito masterpiece.

Why This Slow Cooker Beef Burritos Is a Game-Changer

• Time-saving: Prep is just 20 minutes, and the slow cooker handles the rest—no standing over a pot stirring.
• Tender beef: The low-and-slow magic of the slow cooker ensures the chuck roast becomes melt-in-your-mouth perfect.
• Minimal hands-on work: Once everything’s in the pot, you’re free to run errands, help with homework, or just relax.
• Effortless cleanup: Only a handful of tools are needed, and you can line your slow cooker for even easier cleaning.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Beef Burritos

Here’s what’s essential to get this homemade beef burritos recipe just right:

• Slow cooker: I use a standard 6-quart slow cooker, but any size will work as long as it fits the beef and sauce comfortably.
• Large skillet: For browning the beef, which enhances its flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• 9×13 baking dish: For assembling and baking the burritos to melty, cheesy perfection.

If you’re in the market for a slow cooker, go for one with a timer function so it automatically switches to “warm” when the cooking time is done.

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Burritos

This recipe is all about pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here are the MVPs:

• Chuck roast: This cut of beef shreds like a dream after slow cooking. Swap in stewing beef if needed.
• Enchilada sauce: The secret to bold, saucy flavor. A 19-ounce canned version keeps things easy, but homemade enchilada sauce works too.
• Refried beans: These add creaminess and pair perfectly with the beef. Save time by using canned refried beans.
• Flour tortillas: The larger 12-inch burrito-sized kind work best for hearty wraps.

Pro tip: If you like things spicy, leave the jalapeño seeds in when chopping!

Slow Cooker Beef Burritos Recipe Details

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours

Slow Cooker Beef Burritos Ingredients

• 2 pounds chuck roast, cubed, or stewing beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 poblano pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, chopped
• 1 (19-ounce) can red enchilada sauce
• 1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
• 8 (12-inch) flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream, diced fresh tomatoes, chopped fresh cilantro

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Burritos

1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides.
2. Load the slow cooker: Add the browned beef, onion, poblano pepper, jalapeño, and garlic to your slow cooker. Pour the enchilada sauce over the top.
3. Cook: Set your slow cooker to high for 4 hours or low for 7–8 hours. Walk away—dinner is working itself out!
4. Shred the beef: Once the beef is fork-tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
5. Preheat oven and prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Strain the onions and peppers from the slow cooker sauce, then mix about ½ cup of the sauce with the shredded beef to keep it moist.
6. Heat the beans: Warm the refried beans in the microwave or on the stovetop.
7. Assemble: Spread a portion of beans and beef mixture onto each tortilla. Wrap tightly, folding the ends in, and place seam side down in a 9×13 baking dish.
8. Add toppings: Pour the remaining slow cooker sauce over the burritos and sprinkle with cheese.
9. Bake: Bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
10. Serve: Top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Serve hot!

Jake’s Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Burritos

• Sear for flavor: Don’t skip browning the beef! It adds depth that really brings the burritos to life.
• Line your slow cooker: A liner makes cleaning up a breeze.
• Make it ahead: The beef can be cooked up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the fridge with some sauce to keep it juicy.
• Freeze for later: Wrap individual burritos in foil before baking, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat perfectly: Pop frozen burritos into the oven at 375°F for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.

Easy Slow Cooker Beef Burritos Variations

• Extra cheesy: Add a layer of shredded cheese inside the burrito for extra gooeyness.
• Vegetarian swap: Substitute cooked black beans or lentils for the beef.
• Spice it up: Use pepper jack cheese or add a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Low-carb option: Use low-carb tortillas or skip the wrap entirely and make a burrito bowl!

Slow Cooker Beef Burritos FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, stewing beef works just as well, or even brisket if you have it on hand. Just make sure the pieces are properly trimmed and cubed.

How do I prevent soggy burritos?

Warm the tortillas slightly before assembling, and don’t overfill them with sauce inside.

Can I skip the oven step?

You can, but baking melts the cheese and brings everything together. If you’re in a hurry, just sprinkle cheese on top and microwave until melted.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Cover leftover burritos with foil and bake for 20 minutes at 350°F, or microwave on medium power to avoid drying them out.

What’s the difference between authentic Mexican burritos and these?

Authentic Mexican burritos are typically smaller with simpler fillings, while this cheesy beef burrito recipe is more of a Tex-Mex twist.

Now it’s your turn! What’s your favorite kitchen shortcut for busy nights? Try these Slow Cooker Beef Burritos and let me know in the comments below!