How To Reheat Frozen Burrito In Oven [FULL GUIDE]

Frozen burritos are a lifesaver for busy days when time is short, yet hunger is high. Packed with fillings like seasoned meats, beans, cheese, and vegetables, they are convenient, flavorful, and versatile. However, reheating a frozen burrito isn’t as simple as nuking it in the microwave and hoping for the best. Doing so improperly can result in a soggy, unevenly heated mess, with cold spots in the center and a chewy or dry tortilla. Reheating in the oven, by contrast, allows the burrito to regain a satisfying crisp exterior while ensuring the filling is heated evenly throughout. Understanding the right temperature, cooking time, and technique is essential to turning your frozen burrito into a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Best Temperature To Reheat Frozen Burrito In Oven

The key to reheating a frozen burrito perfectly lies in balancing heat intensity with even cooking. Too high, and the tortilla crisps or burns before the filling is properly warmed; too low, and you risk a cold or soggy center. Experts recommend preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal because it heats the burrito evenly, allowing the interior to thaw and warm gradually while giving the tortilla a light, golden-brown crunch. Some ovens run hotter or cooler than the dial indicates, so if you know your oven tends to overheat, slightly lowering the temperature to 325°F (163°C) can help prevent burning. Conversely, if your oven is underperforming, increasing it to 375°F (190°C) for a slightly shorter time can help achieve the same effect.

Best Cooking Time To Reheat Frozen Burrito In Oven

Cooking time depends on the size of your burrito and whether it’s wrapped in foil. On average, a standard frozen burrito requires 25-30 minutes in the oven. If the burrito is wrapped in foil, it will retain moisture and heat slightly faster; without foil, the tortilla will crisp more but may take a few extra minutes. Large or stuffed burritos may need up to 35 minutes. It’s crucial to check the internal temperature of the burrito to ensure safety and optimal taste. A fully reheated burrito should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring that all fillings, especially meats, are hot and safe to eat.

How To Reheat Frozen Burrito In Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wrap the burrito in foil if you want a softer tortilla, or leave it unwrapped for a crispier exterior.
3. Place the burrito on a baking sheet, ensuring it has space around it for even heat distribution.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway if desired for uniform crisping.
5. Check the internal temperature using a food thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes before unwrapping or slicing. This allows the heat to distribute evenly and prevents burns from super-hot fillings.

When Not To Reheat Frozen Burrito In The Oven

There are times when reheating in the oven may not be ideal:

• Extremely small portions: Tiny burritos or half-sized portions may dry out in a conventional oven.
• Microwave-safe quick meals: If convenience outweighs crispiness, a microwave may be faster.
• Burritos with delicate ingredients: Ingredients like leafy greens or fresh salsa may wilt or lose texture in the oven.
• Already overcooked tortilla: Some store-bought frozen burritos already have dry or brittle tortillas; oven reheating can exacerbate this.

Reheating Frozen Burrito More Than Once

Repeated reheating is strongly discouraged. Each reheating cycle increases the risk of uneven heating, soggy tortillas, and potential bacterial growth if the burrito isn’t cooled or stored properly. If you must reheat more than once, do so only after refrigerating promptly, and always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For best results, it’s better to reheat only the portion you intend to eat immediately.

What If I Use A Different Oven Temperature?

Using a different oven temperature can change both texture and heating efficiency. Lower temperatures (300-325°F / 150-163°C) allow gentle warming and are safer for delicate fillings but will extend cooking time significantly. Higher temperatures (375-400°F / 190-205°C) speed up the process but risk burning the tortilla or drying out the filling. The key is monitoring progress carefully and checking the internal temperature to prevent under- or overcooking.

What If I Use A Different Oven Cook Time?

Altering cook time also requires caution. Shorter cook times may leave the center cold or unevenly heated, especially for dense fillings like beans and meat. Longer cook times can dry out the tortilla and overcook the filling, causing texture and flavor loss. Always aim for the combination of temperature and time that allows the burrito to heat thoroughly without sacrificing the tortilla’s integrity.

Best Ways To Reheat Frozen Burrito

• Oven (recommended): Maintains crispness, ensures even heating, ideal for fully frozen burritos.
• Toaster oven: Perfect for one or two burritos; mimics the oven effect on a smaller scale.
• Skillet: Quick, adds a pan-seared crisp to the tortilla, but requires more attention to avoid burning.
• Microwave (emergency): Fastest method; wrap in a damp paper towel to reduce dryness, though texture will be softer.

Tips For Optimal Reheating Results

1. Use foil strategically: Wrap loosely for soft, steam-warmed tortilla; leave open for crisp edges.
2. Flip halfway: Ensures even browning on both sides.
3. Check internal temperature: Prevents cold spots and ensures safety.
4. Rest before eating: Avoid burning your mouth and allow heat to distribute.
5. Add moisture if needed: Sprinkle a few drops of water inside foil to keep the tortilla from drying out.
6. Avoid reheating multiple times: Only heat what you plan to eat immediately.

FAQs

What Is The Best Way To Reheat A Frozen Burrito In The Oven?

The best way to reheat a frozen burrito in the oven is by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the burrito in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, then place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the burrito reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Do I Need To Thaw The Frozen Burrito Before Reheating It In The Oven?

No, you do not need to thaw the frozen burrito before reheating it in the oven. Reheating from frozen is completely fine. However, if you thaw it beforehand, the reheating time will be reduced.

Can I Reheat A Frozen Burrito Without Using Aluminum Foil?

Yes, you can reheat a frozen burrito without aluminum foil, but wrapping it helps to retain moisture and avoid a dry texture. If you choose not to use foil, place the burrito directly on the baking sheet and consider covering it with a baking dish or parchment paper.

How Long Does It Take To Reheat A Frozen Burrito In The Oven?

It typically takes about 30-35 minutes to reheat a frozen burrito in the oven at 350°F (175°C). You should check the internal temperature to ensure it has reached 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Should I Flip The Frozen Burrito During Reheating In The Oven?

Flipping the burrito halfway through the reheating process is recommended to ensure even heating on all sides. This also prevents the bottom from becoming too crispy or burnt.

Can I Reheat Multiple Frozen Burritos At Once In The Oven?

Yes, you can reheat multiple frozen burritos at once in the oven. However, ensure they are arranged with enough space between them for proper heat circulation. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the overall cooking time.

Is It Necessary To Check The Internal Temperature Of A Reheated Frozen Burrito?

Yes, it is necessary to check the internal temperature of a reheated frozen burrito to ensure it has reached at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety. This ensures the burrito is thoroughly heated and safe to eat.

What Should I Do If The Burrito Is Not Fully Heated After 35 Minutes?

If the burrito is not fully heated after 35 minutes, you can leave it in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. If it is still cold in the center, check that the oven temperature is correct, and ensure the burrito is wrapped properly to maintain moisture.

Can I Use A Convection Oven To Reheat A Frozen Burrito?

Yes, you can use a convection oven to reheat a frozen burrito. If you’re using convection, lower the temperature to 325°F (163°C) and check the burrito after about 20-25 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

What Are Some Tips For Preventing A Frozen Burrito From Becoming Too Soggy In The Oven?

To prevent a frozen burrito from becoming soggy in the oven, make sure to wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. This helps to lock in moisture without making the outer tortilla too wet. Also, avoid overcooking it, as this can cause the filling to become too watery.