This Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito is packed with juicy beef, ooey-gooey cheese, and tasty sauces, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. It’s like a warm hug for your tummy!
I love making these burritos for a quick lunch or dinner. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Who needs takeout when you can whip this up at home? 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the burrito. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use ground turkey or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought seasoning is convenient, but making your own can be fun! Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a quick homemade mix that’s free of preservatives.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for burritos. If you want a lower-carb option, try using whole wheat or corn tortillas—just be aware that corn tortillas are more delicate.
Creamy Cheeses: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but you can swap it for a milder cheese or even pepper jack for a little kick. Mozzarella gives it that gooey texture, but you can use any melting cheese you like.
Beans: Refried beans add richness, but black beans or pinto beans can also work. If you want to skip the beans, just add extra rice!
How Do I Make the Perfect Burrito Roll?
Rolling a burrito tightly is crucial to keep all the delicious fillings securely inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with your tortilla warm so it’s more pliable.
- Add your fillings in the center, but don’t overstuff—1/3 of the tortilla should remain empty.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the fillings to hold everything in.
- With your thumbs, lift the edge closest to you and begin to roll away from you tightly.
- Continue rolling until the entire burrito is wrapped up, and tuck in the sides as you go to seal it.
When done correctly, your burrito should look well-prepared and inviting. Practice makes perfect!
Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
- 1 cup cooked white rice (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped
- 1/2 cup refried beans (optional)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup nacho cheese sauce (or processed cheese sauce)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burrito recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 15 minutes prepping and cooking the filling, and another 10-15 minutes assembling and cooking the burritos to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick homemade meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the diced onions and sautĂ© for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if needed!
2. Season the Beef:
Next, stir in the taco seasoning mix along with 1/2 cup of water. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and wraps around the beef. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While your beef is cooking, warm the flour tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until they’re flexible and easy to work with.
4. Assemble the Burritos:
To each tortilla, spread a spoonful of refried beans (if you’re using them), followed by a layer of cooked rice (if desired). Spoon on the flavorful seasoned beef, and generously sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. If you like, add diced tomatoes and pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
5. Add the Creamy Touch:
Drizzle some nacho cheese sauce over the fillings, and add a dollop of sour cream. Now it’s time to wrap!
6. Roll and Cook the Burritos:
Gently fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. Make sure everything is sealed inside! In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Place the burrito seam-side down and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until it turns golden brown and crispy. Flip it over and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Your homemade Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito is ready! Serve it hot with additional nacho cheese sauce or salsa on the side. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Bon appétit! 🌮🎉
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster than beef. Season well to ensure great flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or add more beans and vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a hearty filling.
Can I Freeze Leftover Burritos?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled burritos! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Burritos?
The best way to reheat burritos is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap the burrito in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the tortilla crispy and the filling warm!
