If you want to run the runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, one of the most important things to know is this – these races can sell out FASTER than Lightning McQueen and he is speed.
I’ve run multiple runDisney race weekends over the years, including the Princess races, Disneyland races and Halloween races — and registration day can honestly feel more stressful than race day if you’re not prepared. The good news is that once you understand how runDisney registration works, it becomes much easier to improve your chances of getting into the race you want.
This guide will walk you through exactly how to register for the runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend including:
the 5K
the 10K
the Half Marathon
challenge options
registration day tips
how quickly races sell out
what to do if a race sells out
and mistakes to avoid
Whether this is your first runDisney race or your tenth, here’s exactly what you need to know.
What Is the runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend?
The runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is one of the most popular race weekends hosted by runDisney at Walt Disney World in Florida. The event usually takes place in February and includes multiple race distances over the course of the weekend.
The 2027 Princess Half Marathon Weekend includes:
Princess 5K
Princess 10K
Princess Half Marathon
Fairy Tale Challenge (10K + Half Marathon)
Tip: If you want to run all 3 races you should register for the 5K and the Fairy Tale Challenge.
One reason these races are so popular is because they combine:
Disney entertainment
character stops
themed costumes
on-course entertainment
medals
and the fun energy of a Disney vacation
A lot of runners choose Princess Weekend as their very first race or first half marathon because the atmosphere is supportive and beginner friendly.
When Does runDisney Princess Half Marathon Registration Open?
Registration for the 2027 runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend opens in June 2, 2026 (for general registration, Club Run Disney members have an earlier date). runDisney usually opens registration several months before race weekend, and popular races usually sell out the same day.
There are typically multiple registration dates:
Club runDisney early registration
General public registration
Charity bib registration
If you’re planning to register during general registration, I strongly recommend being online early and ready before registration opens which we’ll walk/run through below.
Step 1: Create a runDisney Account
Before registration day, create your runDisney account ahead of time. Do NOT wait until registration morning.
You’ll want:
your login information saved
payment method ready
your personal information updated
emergency contact info prepared
This saves valuable time during checkout.
Step 2: Know Which Race You Want (and your 2nd/3rd choice)
Decide ahead of time whether you want to run but be flexible in case it’s sold out before you get a chance to register.
the 5K
10K
Half Marathon
or Fairy Tale Challenge
Rank what races you want to do in order so when you get to the registration page you can quickly decide on your 2nd or 3rd choice if your 1st distance is sold out.
If you’re new to runDisney, know that:
the 5K is untimed and beginner friendly
the 10K is a great first longer race
the Half Marathon is the most popular event
the Challenge includes two races on back-to-back days
My Biggest runDisney Registration Tip
Log in early and stay calm. Seriously. A lot of runners panic when they see long wait times or virtual queues.
Sometimes the site pauses. Sometimes it updates and a box will pop up with an update on what races have sold out. Sometimes it looks frozen.
That’s normal on major registration days. I usually open the registration page early on both my computer and phone just in case one freezes or crashes.
How Fast Do runDisney Races Sell Out?
It varies every year, but Princess Weekend is one of the fastest-selling runDisney weekends.
Historically:
the Half Marathon often sells out first
challenge bibs also go quickly
the 5K can sell out surprisingly fast because many families participate
Some races sell out within hours. Some sell out within minutes. Demand has increased a lot in recent years.
What Happens During runDisney Registration?
When registration opens, runners are usually placed into a virtual waiting room or queue system.
Once it’s your turn:
select your race
enter participant information
complete payment
receive confirmation email
I highly recommend screenshotting your confirmation page immediately after checkout.
Common runDisney Registration Mistakes
Waiting Until Registration Day to Make an Account
This wastes time and adds stress.
Using Slow Internet
If possible, use reliable WiFi and avoid public internet.
Not Having Payment Ready
You do not want to search for your credit card while races are actively selling out.
Trying to Register a Large Group Together
This can slow things down significantly. Sometimes it’s smarter for each person to register separately.
Refreshing Constantly
Aggressive refreshing can sometimes create more issues during high traffic periods.
What If the runDisney Princess Half Marathon Sells Out?
Don’t panic yet. You still may have options.
Charity Bibs
Many charities receive race bibs. This usually requires fundraising, but it can be a great option if general registration sells out.
Travel Providers
Some official travel providers may offer race packages that include bibs.
Registration Reopens
Occasionally small numbers of bibs reappear later. There are no guarantees, but it does happen.
Is Club runDisney Worth It?
Club runDisney offers benefits like:
early registration access
merchandise opportunities
member perks
For runners who do multiple runDisney events every year, it can sometimes be worth considering. But for occasional runners, the cost may not make sense. The biggest benefit is definitely early registration access.
Do You Need Proof of Time?
No, you don’t *need* proof of time. This is one of the fields to complete in the registration process, but you can skip this when you’re first registering to save time. Then, after you complete the registration, pay and get the confirmation you can log back in and add your proof of time. For beginners this is not something to stress about.
There is no proof of time for the 5K. You can put in a self reported time for the 10K. The half marathon has an option to put in proof of time if your estimated finish time for the half marathon is under 2 hours and 30 minutes.
What Pace Do You Need for runDisney?
runDisney races typically require runners to maintain about a 16 minute per mile pace. If you’re newer to running, don’t let that scare you. The Run/Walk method is a mainstay in the Run Disney Training Plans and very popular among participants. This is one of the most Run/Walk friendly races in the world.
What Makes runDisney Different From Other Races?
Honestly, the atmosphere. There’s just something fun about:
seeing runners in costumes
taking castle photos
hearing Disney music on course
spotting characters during the race
and running through the parks before sunrise
It feels more like an experience than just a race. That’s a huge reason so many runners come back year after year.
My Advice for First-Time runDisney Runners
If this is your first runDisney event:
don’t stress about pace
don’t stress about perfect costumes
and definitely don’t compare yourself to experienced runners
Focus on enjoying the experience. The energy at Princess Weekend is honestly one of the most supportive race environments I’ve experienced.
FAQ About runDisney Princess Half Marathon Registration
When does runDisney Princess Half Marathon registration open?
Registration for the 2027 Princess Half Marathon Weekend opens in June 2, 2026. Princess Half Marathon weekend is February 2027.
Which race sells out first?
Usually the Half Marathon or challenge events sell out first, but every year is different.
Can beginners do the runDisney Princess races?
Absolutely. Many runners choose Princess Weekend as their first 5K, 10K or Half Marathon.
Can you walk the runDisney Princess Half Marathon?
Yes, as long as participants maintain the required pace guidelines.
Are costumes required?
No, but many runners wear Disney-inspired outfits and costumes.
What happens if I miss registration?
You can still check:
charity bibs
travel packages
or possible future registration reopenings
Final Thoughts on runDisney Princess Half Marathon Registration
If you want to run the runDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, preparation matters almost as much for registration day as race day. These races are incredibly popular for a reason. The combination of Disney magic, race energy, costumes, medals and community makes Princess Weekend one of the most fun race experiences out there.
My biggest recommendation?
Prepare early. Log in early. Know your race choice ahead of time. And don’t panic during the queue process.
Hopefully I’ll see you at the start line! YOU GOT THIS.
And when you’re getting ready for the race here’s a list of RUN DISNEY TRAINING MUST HAVES.
Pasta e Ceci is a simple Italian pasta and chickpea dish that turns pantry staples into a comforting meal. Made with chickpeas, marinara sauce, pasta, garlic, and Parmesan, it’s an easy one-pot dinner, but also super satisfying!
Pasta e ceci makes a little feel like a lot!
And by “a little,” I mean a pretty short list of ingredients—many of which you probably have in your kitchen right now.
That’s what I love most about Italian food. So many Italian dishes are incredibly simple, with just a handful of ingredients, but the finished result is rich, robust, and more flavorful than you’d expect.
In pasta e ceci, I think it’s all about how the ingredients interact with each other. The chickpeas release starch into the broth. The pasta thickens everything into something halfway between soup and stew. Parmesan infuses flavor into the liquid, adding savory umami to every bite. Bliss!
Let’s talk about what makes this recipe an Italian classic:
Comforting, Not Heavy. Don’t be mistaken, pasta with chickpeas is definitely cozy comfort food, but it’s still light enough for any time of year.
Budget-Friendly. Chickpeas and pasta make a filling meal without any meat.
One Pot Dinner. Fewer dishes to wash is always welcome! (Here are some more One Pot Meals to try!)
Ingredients and Substitutions
You’ll find the full ingredient list in the recipe card below, but here are a few helpful notes before you begin.
Chickpeas. Canned chickpeas are one of my favorite pantry staples! If you want to use dried chickpeas instead, you’ll need to cook them separately; you’ll need 1 1/2 cups of cooked chickpeas.
Olive Oil. You can use any cooking olive oil for toasting the chickpeas and softening the garlic, but for finishing, I recommend a good quality extra-virgin olive oil.
Garlic. Is it even possible to make Italian food without it?
Marinara Sauce. A shortcut that gives the broth instant richness and flavor.
Ditalini Pasta. Or another very small pasta shape.
Parmesan. Parm for serving is a must, and a rind adds incredible depth to the recipe as it simmers if you happen to have one tucked in the fridge.
Fresh Herbs. Basil or parsley brighten everything at the end.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Reserve the Chickpea Liquid (photo 1). Drain the chickpeas, reserving the liquid from the can. Add enough water to the reserved liquid to equal 2 cups total.
Cook the Chickpeas (photo 2). Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chickpeas and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to pop slightly.
Build the Flavor (photo 3). Add the salt, pepper, and garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce.
Add the Liquid (photo 4). Pour in the chickpea liquid mixture, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer.
Cook the Pasta (photo 5). Add the pasta and Parmesan rind if using. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick, until the pasta is tender and the broth thickens slightly, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Serve (photo 6). Remove and discard any remaining waxy parts of the Parmesan rind. Adjust the seasonings to taste. Ladle into bowls and top generously with Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. ENJOY!
What to Serve with Pasta e Ceci
Crusty Bread. No Knead Bread or store-bought baguette slices are perfect for soaking up the tomato-y broth.
Focaccia. This No Knead Focaccia recipe is easy-peasy!
Salad. Go simple with this Arugula Salad or stretch your pot of pasta e ceci a little further by pairing it with something more substantial, like this Italian Chopped Salad.
Pasta e ceci combines tender pasta and creamy chickpeas in a rich, comforting Italian dish made with simple pantry ingredients.
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1(15-ounce) can reduced-sodium chickpeas
Water
2tablespoonsolive oil
3clovesgarlicminced (about 1 tablespoon)
½teaspoonkosher salt
¼teaspoonground black pepper
1cupgood-quality store-bought marinara sauceI like Delallo, Rao’s, and Carbone
½cupuncooked ditalini pastaor another small shape; about 2 ounces
Parmesan rindoptional (add it if you have it)
¼cupgrated Parmesan cheesefor serving
Chopped fresh basil or parsleyfor serving
Good quality extra-virgin olive oilfor serving
Drain the chickpeas, reserving their liquid (I drain the can through a sieve set over a large liquid measuring cup). Add water to the reserved liquid until you have 2 cups total.
In a Dutch oven or similar large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chickpeas and cook, stirring every minute or so, until they begin to pop, 3 to 4 minutes—stand back as the oil may spatter.
Add the salt, pepper, and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly just until fragrant, 30 seconds. Stir in the sauce.
Pour in the chickpea water mixture. Stir to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Increase the heat and bring to a simmer.
Once the liquid is bubbling all around the edges, add the pasta and Parmesan rind. Reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently, stirring periodically to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot, until the pasta is al dente and much of the liquid has been absorbed, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir and remove any waxy parts of the Parmesan rind that haven’t dissolved. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle into bowls, then top each serving with a generous heap of Parmesan, sprinkle of herbs, and drizzle of good quality olive oil. Enjoy hot.
TO STORE: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
TO REHEAT: Warm gently on the stove with an extra splash of water or broth, since the pasta will absorb liquid as it sits.
TO FREEZE: Best frozen without the pasta for ideal texture, though leftovers can still be frozen for up to 2 months.
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Need an easy dinner with minimal cleanup? This sheet pan gnocchi and sausage is one of those recipes that feels way more impressive than the effort it takes.
Sheet Pan Gnocchi and Sausage
If you love a one-pan dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup, this Sheet Pan Gnocchi and Sausage will be a repeat. Everything—crispy golden gnocchi, juicy tomatoes, caramelized broccolini, and savory sausage—roasts together on one pan, making dinner hands-off and ready in about 30 minutes. If you enjoy easy meals with few dirty dishes, you’ll also love my other sheet pan dinners and quick one-pot dishes. They’re perfect for busy weeknights.
Why This Sheet Pan Gnocchi Works
This is one of those meals I prepare on busy nights when I want something satisfying but don’t feel like juggling multiple pots. The gnocchi gets lightly crisp on the outside while staying tender inside, and the sausage provides plenty of protein to make it filling. I love finishing it with a sprinkle of Parmesan for that balanced flavor.
One pan, little cleanup—everything roasts together.
High-protein thanks to the sausage (easy to boost with chicken or turkey sausage)
Packed with veggies–and loaded with fiber.
Easy Weeknight Dinner– no need to boil the gnocchi!
What You’ll Need
You only need 4 main ingredients, plus spices you probably already have in your kitchen, to make this simple one-pan meal. See the recipe card below for the exact measurements.
Italian chicken sausage is rich in lean protein and full of flavor. Be sure to buy pre-cooked sausage.
Broccolini is thinner and more tender than regular broccoli.
Cherry tomatoes soften and caramelize when roasted in the oven. I thought the multi-colored ones added a pretty pop of color, but all red ones work too.
Gnocchi: You don’t need to boil gnocchi before baking it in the oven. It will be firmer than boiled gnocchi but still soft. I like DeLallo’s gnocchi.
Olive oil prevents everything from drying out and helps the gnocchi and veggies brown.
Seasoning: Kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder
Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle some on before serving for a cheesy, flavorful touch.
How to Make Sheet Pan Sausage Gnocchi
Seasoning the ingredients in a bowl ensures everything’s evenly coated, but if you want to save a dish, you can toss everything together on the sheet pan. Check the recipe card at the bottom for printable directions.
Season: Drizzle the sausage, gnocchi, and vegetables with olive oil, then sprinkle all the spices. Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each ingredient so they don’t steam. If everything’s too crowded, use two pans.
Bake for 20 minutes at 425°F. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the gnocchi is tender and the tomatoes have burst. If you prefer it slightly charred with more color, broil the pan for the last couple of minutes.
Serve: Divide it between four bowls and top with parmesan.
Customize It
Use plant-based sausage to make it vegetarian.
Replace chicken sausage with Italian turkey sausage.
Add red onion or bell peppers for more vegetables.
Swap broccolini with broccoli if it’s easier to find.
Toss in spinach at the end for an extra serving of greens. The heat from the ingredients will wilt it.
Garnish with fresh basil, rosemary, or oregano.
Storage
Refrigerate up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet or oven for the best texture.
Freezing isn’t ideal because it can change the gnocchi’s texture.
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Gnocchi
This is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with one of the sides below to make it more filling.
More Sheet Pan Dinners You’ll Love
When you’re not in the mood to cook, try one of these other sheet pan recipes!
Prep: 10 minutesmins
Cook: 20 minutesmins
Total: 30 minutesmins
Preheat the oven to 425° F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Add the sausage, broccolini, cherry tomatoes, and gnocchi to a mixing bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, then season with the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss well to combine.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and spread into an even layer.
Place the pan in the oven to roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the gnocchi is tender and the tomatoes have softened and burst.
Remove from the oven. Spoon the mixture into bowls and serve topped with parmesan cheese.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.
Everything is perfectly cooked (but not charred) at 20 minutes, if you want a little more color you can broil for the last couple of minutes.
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June Cooking Challenge Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Well Plated Monthly Cooking Challenge?
It’s a meaningful way for me to connect with you, see what you are making, and inspire all of us to try something new! Each month, I’ll select a challenge recipe and encourage you to roll up your sleeves, try it, and leave a review. The point is to learn, have fun, and of course to eat delicious food.
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Sharing a roundup of the latest books and if they’re worth adding to your collection.
Hi friends! How are you? I hope your week is off to a great start. We’re exploring Kyoto – SO gorgeous here!!- and having the best time. I’ll share more pics in Friday Faves and a recap when we’re back.
In the meantime, I wanted to chat about books. TBH, my book goal has kind of fallen by the wayside this year. I was so consistent the past few years, but lately, by the time we go to bed, I’m exhausted and crash out. I might read for five minutes before I decide to go to sleep… and it takes a long time to finish a book that way!
Now that summer is here, I’m going to spend more time reading with the crew, during the day (<— hoping this makes a huge difference). My current plan (we’ll see how this works) is that in order to have screens, the kids have to make their bed, get dressed and brush their teeth, complete two chores, read for 30 minutes, and move their body (or at least plan to swim or move their body somehow during the day). I’m going to join them for the 30 minutes of reading time and use the time that they’re completing chores to get work stuff done, and we can head out for the adventures of the day. We’ll see how this pans out in real life lol.
Here’s a recap of some of the books I’ve read lately. If you have any summer reads that you’re enjoying, please share the goods in the comments!
latest book recap
Good Grief by Sara Goodman Confino
She’s one of my favorite authors for lighthearted reads and this one is about a new widow, who has an unexpected long-term visit from her mother-in-law. Her plan to get rid of her is to find her a man and she eventually discovers that her mother-in-law has the same plan for HER. There’s lots of shenanigans and I found this to be a sweet read, but not my favorite. (My favorite SGC novel is Don’t Forget to Write). 6/10
From Amazon:
It’s 1963, two years since Barbara Feldman’s husband died. Raising two kids, she’s finally emerging from her cocoon of grief. Not yet a butterfly, but she’s anxious to spread her wings.
Then one day her mother-in-law, Ruth, shows up on her doorstep with five suitcases, expecting a room of her own with a suitable mattress. Abrasive and stuck in her ways yet well meaning, Mother Ruth arrives without warning to help with the children. How can Barbara say no to a woman who is not only a widow herself but also a grieving mother? As Ruth’s prickly visit turns from days to weeks to what seems like forever, Barbara realizes Ruth has got to go. But Barbara has an ingenious plan: introduce Ruth to some fine gentlemen and marry her off as fast as she can.
Soon enough, something tells Barbara that Ruth is trying to do the same for her. At least they’re finding common ground—helping each other to move forward. Even if it is in the most unpredictable ways two totally different women ever imagined.
The Hearts Invisible Furies
This is one of those books that spans an entire lifetime, and took me an entire lifetime to finish it.
It’s about Cyril Avery, a man who grows up with adoptive parents in 1940s Ireland, the circumstances behind his birth, his evoltion and the relationships in his life (and how they all intertwine). As I read this book, I found myself wondering if all of the extra storylines and details were totally necessary… and they were. It broke my heart slowly and the end was absolutely gorgeous. It’s well-written, vivid, descriptive – a deep and compelling read. 10/10
From Amazon:
Cyril Avery is not a real Avery — or at least, that’s what his adoptive parents tell him. And he never will be. But if he isn’t a real Avery, then who is he?
Born out of wedlock to a teenage girl cast out from her rural Irish community and adopted by a well-to-do if eccentric Dublin couple via the intervention of a hunchbacked Redemptorist nun, Cyril is adrift in the world, anchored only tenuously by his heartfelt friendship with the infinitely more glamourous and dangerous Julian Woodbead. At the mercy of fortune and coincidence, he will spend a lifetime coming to know himself and where he came from – and over his many years, will struggle to discover an identity, a home, a country, and much more.
In this, Boyne’s most transcendent work to date, we are shown the story of Ireland from the 1940s to today through the eyes of one ordinary man. The Heart’s Invisible Furies is a novel to make you laugh and cry while reminding us all of the redemptive power of the human spirit.
High Protein Plate by Rachael DeVaux
This was a new addition to the cookbook collection since I’m always looking for healthy protein and fiber-dense meal ideas. I have Rachael’s previous book and we love so many of the recipes, so I was excited for some new ideas! I’ve read it cover to cover and while I haven’t made anything yet – I received it in the middle of packing and planning mode for our trip – I’ll definitely report back.
From Amazon:
Getting enough protein is essential. It’s needed for health and strength at every stage of life. The more protein you eat, the more satisfied, energized, and resilient you’ll feel. It builds muscle, fuels hormones, and supports every organ.
In The High Protein Plate, Rachael DeVaux, New York Times bestselling author of Rachael’s Good Eats, shows how anyone at any stage of life can easily incorporate protein into their diet. The High Protein Plate includes the following:
– 100 high-protein, craveable recipes for packing protein from breakfast through dessert.
– Straightforward guidance on how much protein you really need—and why it matters.
– Macros for every recipe, so you can easily track what’s best for you.
– Confidence to plan and prepare balanced, purposeful meals.
– Meal prep tips to set you up for success all week long.
– A 28-day plan to help get you started and stay on track.
Real-life practicality meets science-backed nutrition in Rachael’s approach. She embraces better-for-you swaps over strict food rules and shares alternatives to packaged foods so you can build balanced protein-forward plates that are satisfying and simple. From Buffalo Chicken Baked Tacos and Honey Blackberry Overnight Oats to Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta, these meals are made for everyday life.
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
Lisa See is another one of my favorite authors (read Lady Tan’s Circle of Women if you haven’t) and this was a beautiful story about sisterhood, resilience, and what it may have been like to grow up as a woman in 19th century China. 9/10
From Amazon:
In nineteenth-century China, when wives and daughters were foot-bound and lived in almost total seclusion, the women in one remote Hunan county developed their own secret code for communication: nu shu (“women’s writing”). Some girls were paired with laotongs, “old sames,” in emotional matches that lasted throughout their lives. They painted letters on fans, embroidered messages on handkerchiefs, and composed stories, thereby reaching out of their isolation to share their hopes, dreams, and accomplishments.
With the arrival of a silk fan on which Snow Flower has composed for Lily a poem of introduction in nu shu, their friendship is sealed and they become “old sames” at the tender age of seven. As the years pass, through famine and rebellion, they reflect upon their arranged marriages, loneliness, and the joys and tragedies of motherhood. The two find solace, developing a bond that keeps their spirits alive. But when a misunderstanding arises, their lifelong friendship suddenly threatens to tear apart.
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is a brilliantly realistic journey back to an era of Chinese history that is as deeply moving as it is sorrowful. With the period detail and deep resonance of Memoirs of a Geisha, this lyrical and emotionally charged novel delves into one of the most mysterious of human relationships: female friendship.
Ok friends, what books have you read lately? What’s on your current list?
I’m currently reading The Hormone Shift and Our Perfect Storm.
xo
Gina
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These Korean beef smash burritos are the ultimate fusion dinner — seasoned ground beef is pressed directly into a tortilla and seared in a cast iron skillet until crispy, then loaded with crunchy sesame slaw, jasmine rice, cucumbers, and triple-drizzled with Japanese BBQ sauce, kewpie mayo, and chili crisp. If you love my smash burger tacos, you’re going to lose it over these.
The smash technique is what makes these burritos next-level. Instead of cooking the beef separately and adding it as a filling, you press raw seasoned beef directly onto the tortilla and cook them together. The result? A crispy, caramelized layer of beef that’s fused to the tortilla — no falling apart, no soggy bottoms, just pure flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love Korean Beef Smash Burritos
The smash technique: Pressing raw beef into the tortilla and searing them together creates an insanely crispy, caramelized crust that stays put.
Korean-inspired flavor bomb: Ginger, garlic, sesame, and chili crisp bring bold Asian-inspired flavors that pair perfectly with the crunchy slaw.
Ready in under an hour: 30 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking — that’s a weeknight-friendly timeline for a restaurant-quality meal.
Customizable toppings: Go heavy on the kewpie, light on the chili crisp, or pile on extra slaw — these burritos are built for personalization.
Ingredients for Korean Beef Smash Burritos
Here’s what you need for these loaded smash burritos:
For the Smashed Beef Tortillas
Ground beef: I use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and enough fat to get that crispy sear. You can sub ground chicken or turkey — just know it’ll change the flavor (and you may need a little extra oil).
Garlic and ginger: Fresh is non-negotiable here. These two are the backbone of the Korean-inspired flavor profile.
Minced carrot: Adds a subtle sweetness and keeps the meat mixture moist.
Sesame seeds, cilantro, and sesame oil: Layers of nutty, herby, aromatic flavor throughout the beef.
Large burrito tortillas: Go big — you need enough surface area for the smash technique and all those fillings.
For the Sesame Slaw and Toppings
Red cabbage slaw: Shredded red cabbage, cilantro, green onions, and matchstick carrots tossed with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and lime juice. It’s crunchy, tangy, and the perfect contrast to the rich beef.
Cucumber sticks: Cool, crisp mini cucumbers add freshness and crunch.
Japanese BBQ sauce: Sweet, savory, and slightly smoky — it ties everything together.
Kewpie mayo: Creamier and tangier than regular mayo. Regular mayo works in a pinch.
Chili crisp: That spicy, crunchy, oily heat that makes everything better. If you love it in my chili crunch Brussels sprouts, you’ll love it here too.
Jasmine rice: Fluffy, fragrant jasmine rice adds substance and soaks up all the sauces.
How to Make Korean Beef Smash Burritos
Step 1: Mix the Beef
Combine the ground beef, garlic, ginger, carrot, sesame seeds, cilantro, sesame oil, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl. Mix until just combined — don’t overwork the meat or it’ll get tough.
Step 2: Make the Slaw
Toss the shredded cabbage, cilantro, green onions, and matchstick carrots with sesame oil, rice vinegar, lime juice, and salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands to soften it — this helps it absorb the dressing and makes it easier to roll.
Step 3: Smash the Beef into Tortillas
Divide the beef into 4 equal portions and roll into balls. Place a ball on a tortilla and press the meat as thin as possible, spreading it all the way to the edges. This is the smash technique — the thinner the beef, the crispier the result.
Step 4: Sear in Cast Iron
Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla meat-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes until the beef is crispy and caramelized. Flip and cook 30 seconds more to brown the tortilla. Remove to a clean surface.
Step 5: Build and Roll
While the tortilla is still warm and pliable, spread 1 tablespoon each of BBQ sauce, kewpie, and chili crisp over the beef. Add ½ cup of jasmine rice, ⅓ cup of slaw, and a few cucumber sticks. Roll tightly and repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Tips for the Best Smash Burritos
Press the meat thin: The thinner you press the beef, the crispier it gets. Don’t leave thick spots in the middle.
Hot skillet, no oil needed: The beef fat renders as it cooks — no extra oil necessary. Just make sure your skillet is properly preheated.
Roll while warm: The tortilla needs to be warm and flexible to roll without cracking. Build your burrito right off the skillet.
Don’t overmix the meat: Mix until just combined. Overworking ground beef makes it dense and chewy.
Serving Suggestions
These smash burritos are a complete meal on their own, but if you want to go all-out, serve them alongside:
Substitutions and Variations
Ground meat: Ground chicken, turkey, or pork all work. Leaner meats may need 1–2 tablespoons extra oil mixed in.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for rolling. Whole wheat or spinach tortillas are great swaps.
Spice level: Skip the chili crisp and use hoisin sauce for a milder option, or double the chili crisp if you like it hot.
Kewpie mayo: Regular mayo or a sriracha mayo both work as substitutes.
Rice: Swap jasmine rice for brown rice, cauliflower rice, or skip it entirely for a lighter burrito.
How to Store Korean Beef Smash Burritos
Refrigerator: Store assembled burritos wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to re-crisp.
Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in a skillet.
Meal prep tip: Cook the beef tortillas and store flat. Make the slaw separately. Assemble fresh when ready to eat for the crunchiest result.
FAQ
What makes these “smash” burritos?
The smash technique means pressing raw seasoned beef directly onto the tortilla before cooking. The beef and tortilla cook together in a hot skillet, creating a crispy, caramelized beef layer that’s fused to the tortilla.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or pork all work well. If using a leaner meat, add 1–2 tablespoons of extra oil to the mixture so it still gets crispy in the skillet.
What is kewpie mayo?
Kewpie is a Japanese-style mayo made with egg yolks only (no whites), plus rice vinegar instead of distilled vinegar. It’s creamier, tangier, and slightly sweeter than American mayo. You can find it at most grocery stores in the international aisle.
Do I need to add oil to the skillet?
Nope! The fat from the ground beef renders as it cooks, creating its own cooking oil. Just make sure your cast iron is properly preheated.
