Beef and Bean Burritos: A Tasty and Nutritious Family Favourite

At Milestones, we know that mealtimes are about more than just filling hungry tummies—they’re an opportunity for children to enjoy delicious, nourishing food while developing healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

That’s why we love sharing nutritious and easy-to-make recipes like our Beef and Bean Burritos—one of the many delicious meals served at our centres! Packed with protein, fibre, and essential nutrients, this dish keeps little bodies fuelled for a day full of learning and play.

These burritos are a hit with children and so simple to prepare at home, making them a great go-to meal for busy families looking for something quick, delicious, and nutritious.

Beef and Bean Burritos

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ tbsp oil (sunflower, canola, or olive)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 500g lean beef mince
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp chilli powder (optional)
  • 440g tinned diced tomatoes
  • ½ red capsicum, chopped
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • ⅓ cup liquid beef stock
  • 200g tinned red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 8 medium tortillas
  • 160g reduced-fat cheddar cheese

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until onion is tender. Add mince and cook for 3 minutes, stirring until browned.
  2. Add cumin, paprika, and chilli powder. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until aromatic.
  3. Add tomatoes, capsicum, tomato paste, and stock. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes or until sauce thickens. Stir in beans.
  4. Warm tortillas following packet instructions. Divide beef mixture evenly between tortillas, spreading along the centre. Roll up tightly to enclose filling.
  5. Place burritos in a large greased baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and bake for 10 minutes, or until cheese melts and burritos start to brown.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Why Healthy Eating Matters for Children Under Five

The early years are a critical time for growth and development. The food children eat during this stage plays a huge role in their overall health, brain development, and ability to learn.

Read more: How Group Mealtime Encourages Healthy Eating in Early Childhood

At Milestones, we prioritise fresh, nutritious meals to ensure every child gets the best possible start in life. Our menus are designed with a balance of proteins, whole grains, fresh vegetables, and dairy, giving children the energy they need to explore, discover, and thrive.

We also believe that mealtimes should be fun and engaging. Encouraging children to try new foods in a positive and supportive way helps them develop a love for healthy eating and build confidence in making nutritious choices.

By offering wholesome, well-balanced meals, we help lay the foundation for lifelong healthy habits—ensuring that every bite is packed with goodness and made with care.

Discover what else is on the menu at Milestones.

Recipe: FeedAustralia.