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🌯 Protein-Packed Cheesy Orzo Beef Burrito

Macros per Serving

🔥 Calories: ~525 kcal
🥩 Protein: ~35g
🍚 Carbohydrates: ~45g
🥑 Fat: ~20g
🌽 Fibre: ~7g

A creamy, cheesy orzo and beef mince filling wrapped in a golden toasted burrito – this high-protein meal is perfect for lunch, dinner, or post-workout refuelling. It’s packed with flavour, satisfies cravings, and is super easy to make in under 30 minutes!

Total Time: ~25 mins (10 mins prep time, 15 mins cook time)

💰 Total cost (2 servings): ≈ £3.80

🍽️ Cost per serving: ≈ £1.90

This is an approximate calculation, but it should give you a good idea of the cost of making these 2 servings. The cost per meal comes down significantly when buying ingredients in larger quantities, especially for pantry staples like olive oil, spices, and seasonings.


Ingredients (2 servings)

🥩 For the Filling

• 250g lean beef mince
• 100g orzo pasta
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
• 30g grated cheddar
• 1 tbsp light cream cheese (optional)
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp beef stock

🌯 For the Wrap

• 2 large tortilla wraps
• Optional: jalapeños, hot sauce, spring onions, salsa


Instructions (2 servings)

1. 🔪 Cook the Orzo

Boil orzo in salted water for ~8–10 mins until al dente.
Drain well and set aside.

2. 🔥 Cook the Beef

• In a frying pan, cook the beef mince over medium heat until browned.
• Add tomato purée, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stir well and cook for another 2–3 mins, adding a splash of stock or water if needed.

3. 🧀 Make it Cheesy

Add the drained orzo to the beef mixture.
• Stir in the grated cheese and optional cream cheese, along with a splash of milk and/or stock.
• Mix until the filling becomes creamy and well combined. Let it simmer on low heat for 1–2 mins.

4. 🌯 Assemble the Burritos

Spoon the cheesy beef orzo filling into the centre of each tortilla wrap.
• Add any optional extras like jalapeños, spring onions, or hot sauce.
Fold and roll each wrap into a tight burrito.

5. 🥙 Toast & Serve

Toast each burrito in a dry frying pan for ~2 mins per side until golden and crispy.
Serve hot and enjoy!


Health Benefits of the Dish

🥩 Muscle-Building Protein

Lean beef, cheddar, and a little cream cheese provide a high-quality source of complete protein. This supports muscle repair, growth, and recovery, making this burrito a great option after training. Protein also promotes satiety, helping to manage hunger and support lean muscle goals.

🔥 Balanced Fuel for Energy

The combination of orzo pasta, beef, and a small amount of healthy fat provides steady, balanced energy to keep you going throughout the day. These nutrients work together to support physical performance, improve focus, and help you avoid midday crashes often caused by low-energy, unbalanced meals.

🧠 Brain-Boosting Nutrients

Beef mince is rich in key nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and zinc, which are essential for mental clarity, energy metabolism, and a healthy immune system. These nutrients help reduce brain fog, support consistent energy levels, and keep you performing at your best throughout the day.

💡 Tips & Variations


🧀 Extra Creamy? – Add a little more cream cheese or stir in a spoonful of Greek yoghurt for added richness and protein.

🌶️ Spice It Up – Mix in chilli flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some fresh jalapeños if you prefer a fiery kick.

🌯 Lower Calorie Option? – Use a low-calorie wrap, 5% fat beef mince, and skip the cream cheese to lighten things up without sacrificing flavour.

🌱 Meat-Free? – Swap the beef for lentils, quorn mince, or chopped mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version with a similar texture.

📦 Meal Prep Friendly? – Make the filling in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze in portions for a quick grab-and-go option. Toast the wrap fresh for the best texture.

🧄 Flavour Boost? – Sauté some onions and garlic with the beef mince for extra depth, or add herbs like coriander or parsley to freshen things up.

🧠 Macro Flexibility? – Need more carbs? Serve with a side of rice or chips. Want more protein? Add an egg or extra cheese inside the burrito.


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