Easy Pulled Pork Burrito Recipe: The Best Way to Transform Leftovers into a Delicious Meal
Pulled Pork Burritos are a phenomenal solution for transforming leftover pulled pork into an entirely new, incredibly satisfying meal. This recipe takes tender, succulent pulled pork and infuses it with a vibrant mix of warm, aromatic spices, crisp red bell peppers, sweet red onions, and hearty black beans. All these delicious components are then carefully wrapped in warm tortillas, complemented by fresh lettuce, melty cheese, and fragrant cilantro, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re planning for effortless meal prep or need a quick, delicious dinner on a busy weeknight, these burritos are your go-to – they’re perfect for making ahead and freezing!
Not long ago, I enthusiastically shared my Pork Enchilada Recipe, a culinary collaboration with the wonderful Ohio Pork Council. That recipe quickly became a resounding success in my home, proving just how much my family enjoys easy, flavorful Mexican-style dishes featuring pork. This sparked a new mission for me: to create even more accessible and delicious recipes that highlight the versatility of pork.
Today’s featured recipe, Pulled Pork Burritos, continues that delicious journey. It combines leftover pulled pork with fluffy rice, protein-packed black beans, crunchy red bell peppers, a medley of warm spices, rich cheese, and bright fresh cilantro. This combination ensures every bite is packed with savory goodness and satisfying textures. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can effortlessly use any leftover pulled pork you might have on hand, or choose to prepare some fresh using my highly-rated recipes such as the Boston Butt Recipe, a classic Slow Cooker Barbecue Pulled Pork, or even learn How to Make Pork Tenderloin in the Slow Cooker for a leaner option.
What truly makes this burrito recipe a standout is its incredible flexibility. It’s a fantastic “clean out the fridge” meal, allowing you to incorporate almost any ingredients you have in your pantry or refrigerator. I am a huge proponent of such adaptable and easy recipes! I often prepare a large batch of these burritos, keeping some in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners and freezing the rest for those particularly hectic evenings. Reheating is a breeze, whether you choose your microwave for speed or an air fryer for a wonderfully crispy finish.
If you’re as big a fan of Mexican-inspired pork dishes as my family is, you might also enjoy some of my other popular recipes, including these hearty Stuffed Poblano Peppers, the incredibly simple yet satisfying Easy Ground Pork Tacos, and a comforting bowl of Easy Pork Chili. Each offers a unique way to enjoy delicious pork with vibrant flavors.
Why You Will Love These Pulled Pork Burritos
These Pulled Pork Burritos aren’t just a meal; they’re a smart and delicious culinary solution for a variety of reasons. Here’s why they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortless Meal Prep: Burritos are truly a champion when it comes to weekend meal preparation. You can assemble a large batch, store them conveniently in the fridge for quick grab-and-go meals throughout the week, or freeze them for even longer-term solutions. I personally love to keep half in the fridge for immediate consumption and stash the rest in the freezer for those truly busy weeknights. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them up quickly in the microwave or air fryer. This foresight saves valuable time and ensures you always have a wholesome, delicious meal within reach.
- Incredibly Satisfying: These pork burritos are more than just hearty; they are exceptionally filling and satisfying. Loaded with flavorful pulled pork, nutrient-rich black beans, and fluffy rice, they provide a balanced meal that will keep you feeling full and energized. They make an excellent choice for a robust dinner after a long day or a substantial, flavorful lunch that will power you through the afternoon. The combination of protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables creates a fulfilling culinary experience.
- Perfect for Using Leftovers: There’s no better way to repurpose and revitalize leftovers than by turning them into these delectable burritos. Not only are they ideal for utilizing extra pulled pork, but they also offer a fantastic opportunity to incorporate leftover rice, various beans, a medley of sautéed or roasted vegetables, a dollop of salsa, fresh greens, and an assortment of herbs. It’s a truly tasty and efficient way to declutter your fridge and minimize food waste, transforming forgotten ingredients into a fresh, exciting dish.
Essential Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need
For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down on this page. Below is a breakdown of the key ingredients and some helpful notes for each:
- Vegetables: The core of our delicious pork mixture features sautéed red onion, which adds a wonderful sweetness and depth of flavor, alongside vibrant red bell pepper, contributing a touch of sweetness and a pleasant crunch. Feel free to experiment with any variety of onion or bell pepper you prefer – yellow onions work just as well, and green or yellow bell peppers can add different color and subtle flavor notes. I typically prefer to dice the bell pepper for even distribution, but thin slices are also a great option if you enjoy a different texture.
- Spices: A classic blend of chili powder, earthy cumin, and smoky paprika creates the quintessential taco-style flavor profile that beautifully complements the pulled pork. Don’t hesitate to adjust these spices to your personal taste. For those who enjoy a little extra kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can be added. Consider adding a touch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
- Rice: Brown rice is my preferred choice as it adds a fantastic nutty flavor and a desirable chewy texture, making the burrito even more wholesome and filling due to its fiber content. However, white rice, quick-cook rice, or even a flavorful cilantro-lime rice can be used depending on your preference and what you have on hand. Quinoa is also a great, high-protein alternative.
- Beans: Black beans are a crucial addition, providing a rich, earthy flavor and a significant boost of protein and fiber. It’s important to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the mix to prevent any excess moisture from making your burritos soggy.
- Pulled Pork: This recipe is specifically designed to be an excellent use of leftover pulled pork. If you don’t have any already prepared, I highly recommend making a batch. My Slow Cooker Barbecue Pulled Pork is a fan favorite and works perfectly here, whether you prefer it with or without the BBQ sauce.
- Greens: Finely chopped romaine lettuce is added for a refreshing crunch and acts as an important barrier, helping to absorb excess moisture and prevent the tortilla from becoming soggy. Other crisp greens like shredded iceberg lettuce or even finely chopped cabbage can also be used effectively. Just ensure they are washed and dried thoroughly before adding.
- Cheese: Shredded cheese is an optional but highly recommended addition, bringing a creamy, savory element that ties all the flavors together. Feel free to use your favorite type, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can easily omit it or use a plant-based shredded cheese.
- Tortillas: I consistently opt for large flour tortillas because of their superior pliability and ability to hold a substantial amount of filling without tearing. They are easy to fold and create a sturdy burrito. However, you can use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber or even corn tortillas (though these can be trickier to roll without breaking, so be sure to warm them well).
Delicious Ways to Modify Your Pulled Pork Burritos
One of the greatest joys of making burritos is how easily you can customize them to suit your taste, dietary needs, or simply to use up what you have in the fridge. Here are even more ways to get creative with your pulled pork burritos:
- Beans: While black beans offer a wonderful earthy flavor and creamy texture, don’t limit yourself! Kidney beans provide a slightly firmer texture and a rich, robust flavor. Red beans are similar but can be a bit milder. White beans (like cannellini or navy beans) offer a delicate flavor and soft consistency, while chickpeas add a unique, slightly nutty taste. Pinto beans are a classic choice for burritos, known for their creamy texture when mashed or their hearty bite when kept whole.
- Vegetables: These burritos are a perfect canvas for a wide array of vegetables. Consider adding roasted veggies like sweet potato or butternut squash for a touch of sweetness and added bulk. Shredded carrots can introduce a subtle sweetness and extra crunch. Sautéed mushrooms and zucchini will add an umami depth and tender texture. For a bit of heat and authentic Mexican flavor, try incorporating diced poblanos or jalapeños. Fresh elements like thinly sliced green onions or radishes can provide a sharp, peppery bite. Caramelized onions offer intense sweetness, while corn kernels add a pop of color and sweetness. Diced tomatoes contribute freshness and juiciness.
- Greens: Beyond romaine, explore other greens for added flavor and texture. Hearty kale, gently massaged, can add a slightly bitter, earthy note and boost nutrition. Arugula offers a peppery kick, while shredded iceberg provides maximum crispness.
- Cheese: If you’re including cheese, the options are plentiful. Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, offering a mild, stretchy consistency. Sharp cheddar provides a robust, tangy flavor. Pepper Jack cheese is excellent if you desire a spicy kick. Monterey Jack is a mild, melty choice, while cotija cheese, a dry, crumbly Mexican cheese, adds a salty, savory element when sprinkled on top. Chihuahua or queso fresco cheeses are also fantastic, offering a fresh, mild creaminess.
- Other Flavorful Additions: Elevate your burritos further with these delightful extras:
- Chopped Avocado: For creamy richness and healthy fats.
- A Squeeze of Lime Juice: Brightens all the flavors with a zesty tang.
- Green Chiles: Milder than jalapeños, they add a distinctive Southwestern flavor.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet and smoky, they enhance the overall complexity.
- Roasted Sweet Potato: Adds natural sweetness and a soft texture, making the burrito more filling.
- My homemade Quick Pickled Red Onions: Offer a tangy, bright contrast that cuts through the richness of the pork.
- A variety of Quick Pickled Vegetables: For an extra layer of zesty crunch.
- Pineapple Chunks: A surprising but delicious addition for a sweet and savory, slightly tropical twist.
How to Assemble Your Delicious Pulled Pork Burritos
Creating these flavorful pulled pork burritos is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect, satisfying meal:
Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Flavorful Filling: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, sturdy skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 2 minutes until it becomes wonderfully fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it. Next, introduce the diced red onions to the skillet and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and release their sweet aroma. Finally, add the diced red bell pepper along with the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Sauté this colorful mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the bell peppers have softened to your liking, and the spices have bloomed, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma.
Step 2: Incorporate Pork & Beans: Gently fold in the pre-cooked pulled pork and the drained and rinsed black beans into the sautéed vegetable and spice mixture. Continue to heat everything through for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure all the flavors meld together beautifully and the ingredients are warmed evenly. Once heated, remove the skillet from the heat and set the filling aside.
Step 3: Warm Your Tortillas for Pliable Perfection: Achieving a perfectly rolled burrito starts with a warm, pliable tortilla. Heat your tortillas one at a time. You can do this quickly on a microwave-safe plate for about 10 seconds per tortilla. Alternatively, you can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 15-20 seconds per side, or even wrap a stack in foil and heat them in a warm oven for a few minutes. Warming them prevents cracking and makes them much easier to fold and roll without tearing.
Step 4: Artfully Fill Your Burritos: Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. First, spread a thin, even layer of shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce across the center. This acts as a protective barrier, helping to prevent the tortilla from becoming soggy from the wetter ingredients. On top of the lettuce, evenly distribute about 1/2 cup of the warm pulled pork mixture, followed by 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese, 1/4 cup of cooked rice, and a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Add another thin layer of lettuce on top of these ingredients to further protect the tortilla and add extra crunch.
Step 5: Fold the Sides for Security: With the fillings neatly arranged, begin by carefully folding the left and right sides of the tortilla inward over the fillings. This crucial step creates a secure pocket that helps to keep the delicious contents contained and prevents them from spilling out as you roll, ensuring a tidy and enjoyable eating experience.
Step 6: Roll Your Burrito Tightly and Securely: Now, it’s time for the final roll! Start by taking the bottom edge of the tortilla and folding it up and over the fillings. As you begin to roll upwards, use your fingers to tuck the fillings in tightly, creating a snug, compact cylinder. Maintain this tight roll as you continue to roll the tortilla until you reach the top edge. The goal is to have the tortilla securely wrapped around all the delicious components. Once rolled, you can gently tuck in any loose bits of filling and place the burrito seam-side down to secure it. If you crave a delightful crispy exterior, you have a few options: toast the rolled burrito in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side until golden brown, or achieve a similar crispness in an air fryer or even on a grill. You can enjoy your perfectly crafted burrito immediately, or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and store it in the fridge or freezer for a convenient meal later on.
Expert Recipe Tips for Perfect Burritos
Mastering the art of burrito making is simple with a few key techniques. These tips will ensure your Pulled Pork Burritos are perfectly assembled, delicious, and easy to enjoy:
- Always Warm Your Tortillas: This is a non-negotiable step! Whether you use a dry skillet, a microwave, or a warm oven, gently warm your tortillas until they are soft and highly pliable. Warm tortillas are much more flexible, preventing them from cracking or tearing as you fold and roll. This ensures a smooth, intact burrito every time.
- Assemble Strategically: To combat sogginess and maintain a pleasant texture, layer your greens (like shredded lettuce) on both sides of the “wet” ingredients (like the pulled pork mixture). These layers act as a natural barrier, absorbing moisture and keeping your tortilla fresh. Additionally, avoid the temptation to overfill your burritos. While a generous filling is appealing, too much can make rolling difficult and lead to spillage.
- Roll Tightly for Structure: The secret to a well-structured burrito is a tight roll. Begin by folding in the opposite sides of the tortilla over the filling. Then, starting from the bottom, roll the tortilla upwards, pressing firmly but gently to keep the filling compactly in place. A tightly rolled burrito holds its shape better, making it easier to eat and preventing contents from falling out.
- Delay Cutting Until Serving: If you’re preparing burritos for later consumption or meal prep, resist the urge to cut them in half immediately. Cutting a burrito in advance can expose the filling, leading to faster sogginess of the tortilla and potential spillage of ingredients during storage. Wait until just before you’re ready to eat to make that perfect clean cut.
- Baking for a Melty, Cheesy Finish: For an extra layer of warmth and a beautifully melted cheese topping, consider baking your assembled burritos. Arrange them snugly in a casserole dish, sprinkle additional cheese over the top (if desired), and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted and the burritos are heated through. This method also helps to slightly crisp the exterior of the tortilla.
Optimal Reheating Tips for Burritos
Reheating your prepared burritos ensures they taste just as fresh and delicious as when they were first made. Whether they’re from the fridge or freezer, a few simple techniques can bring them back to life:
- Reheating Frozen Burritos: If reheating from frozen, it’s generally best to first unwrap the burritos from their foil or plastic wrap if you plan to microwave them, as foil cannot go into the microwave. Microwave them in short intervals, flipping occasionally, until heated through. However, if you’re using an oven or air fryer, you can often leave them wrapped in aluminum foil. The foil helps to retain moisture, preventing the tortilla from drying out and ensuring the filling warms evenly without burning.
- Food Safety First: Always ensure that your burritos are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. A food thermometer is the best way to confirm this.
- Labeling for Freshness: When preparing burritos for future use, make it a habit to label them with the date they were made or frozen. This simple practice helps you keep track of their freshness and ensures you enjoy them within their optimal storage period.
How to Reheat Burritos in an Air Fryer for Perfect Crispiness
The air fryer is an excellent tool for reheating burritos, as it can revive them to a wonderfully crispy state, mimicking a freshly made burrito. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to a temperature of approximately 350 degrees F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. Preheating is crucial for ensuring even heating, preventing soggy spots, and achieving that desirable crispy exterior.
- Step 2: Wrap the Burrito (Optional, but Recommended): If your burrito is already wrapped in aluminum foil from storage, you can leave it wrapped. This helps to lock in moisture, ensuring the tortilla remains soft on the inside while the filling heats thoroughly, and prevents the tortilla from becoming overly dry or tough during reheating. If it’s not wrapped, you can lightly wrap it in foil now, or place it directly in the air fryer for maximum crispness (though it might dry out slightly more).
- Step 3: Place the Burrito in the Air Fryer: Carefully position the burrito (or burritos) in the air fryer basket. If you are reheating multiple burritos, ensure you leave adequate space between them. This allows for proper air circulation, which is essential for uniform heating and achieving that all-important crispy texture. Avoid overcrowding the basket.
- Step 4: Reheat for a Few Minutes: Cook the burrito in the preheated air fryer for about 6-8 minutes. For even heating and crisping, remember to flip the burrito halfway through the cooking time. Keep in mind that cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of your burrito, as well as the specific model and wattage of your air fryer. Always check for internal warmth and desired crispness before serving.
Smart Storage Tips for Meal Prep and Freshness
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Pulled Pork Burritos as part of a successful meal-prep strategy or simply ensuring they remain delicious for later. Here’s how to store them effectively:
- Individual Wrapping is Essential: If you are preparing these burritos ahead of time for meal prep, it is crucial to wrap each one tightly and individually in aluminum foil. This tight wrapping serves multiple purposes: it protects the burrito from freezer burn, prevents it from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator, and most importantly, helps to retain its moisture content.
- Reheating in Foil: A significant advantage of wrapping burritos in aluminum foil is that you can often reheat them directly in the oven or air fryer while still wrapped. The foil creates a steam environment, which helps keep the tortilla soft and pliable, preventing it from drying out or becoming brittle during the reheating process. This method ensures a warm, flavorful filling and a tender wrapper.
- Refrigeration: When stored correctly in the refrigerator (tightly wrapped), your pulled pork burritos will maintain their quality and freshness for up to 4-5 days. This makes them ideal for a week’s worth of lunches or quick dinners.
- Freezing: For longer-term storage, burritos freeze exceptionally well. You can store them in the freezer for up to 1 to 2 months without any significant loss in the quality or flavor of the ingredients. Beyond two months, while still safe to eat, the texture and taste might start to degrade slightly. Always ensure they are properly sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain their deliciousness.
Discover More Delicious Pork Recipes
Pork
Instant Pot Pork Roast
Pork
Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
Pork
Air Fryer Pork Taquitos
Pork
Quick and Easy Pork Enchilada Recipe
Tried this recipe? Leave a star rating and comment below! Subscribe to my newsletter or follow me on
Facebook,
Instagram, or
Pinterest for the latest.
Pulled Pork Burrito
Pin
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeds removed, diced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 3 cups leftover pulled pork {with or without bbq sauce is up to you}
- 1 1/2 cups black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice {or rice of your choice}
- 6 tortillas {I use burrito style tortillas because they are large}
- 1 cup shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
-
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
-
Add the diced red onions and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
-
Stir in the diced red bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender-crisp and the spices are aromatic.
-
Add the pulled pork and black beans to the skillet. Continue to heat, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes to ensure all ingredients are warmed through and flavors are melded. Remove from heat and set aside. Meanwhile, warm the tortillas one at a time on a microwave-safe plate for 10 seconds each, or in a dry skillet until pliable.
-
Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of shredded iceberg lettuce across the center. Top with approximately 1/2 cup of the warm pulled pork mixture, followed by 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese, 1/4 cup of cooked rice, and a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Add another thin layer of lettuce on top of these ingredients.
-
Fold the left and right sides of the tortilla inward over the fillings. This crucial step helps to keep the fillings contained and prevents them from falling out as you roll.
-
Begin rolling the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the fillings, tucking them in tightly to create a compact, secure burrito.
-
Use your fingers to hold the fillings in place as you continue to roll. Keep rolling the tortilla until you reach the top edge, ensuring the tortilla is snugly wrapped around all the ingredients. Once the burrito is fully rolled, you can gently tuck in any loose filling and place it seam-side down to secure its shape.
-
For a deliciously crispy exterior, you can toast the finished burrito in a hot skillet, an air fryer, or on a grill for a few minutes on each side until it’s lightly golden brown and perfectly crispy. Enjoy your burrito right away, or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil for storage in the fridge or freezer to enjoy later.
Notes
- Storage: If you are making these burritos as part of meal-prep ahead of time, it is essential to wrap them tightly and individually in aluminum foil. When reheating in the oven or air fryer, you can often leave them wrapped in the foil. This helps significantly in retaining moisture and prevents the tortilla from drying out and becoming tough during the reheating process.
- You can safely store prepared burritos in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer preservation, they can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 to 2 months without any noticeable loss of quality or flavor of the ingredients. Always label with the date for best freshness tracking.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This post is sponsored by the Ohio Pork Council, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. I genuinely appreciate your support for pork farmers!