Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito Recipe – A Flavor-Packed Burrito You Can Make at Home
Craving a Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito but don’t feel like going out? Why not make this flavorful favorite right at home? Loaded with seasoned beef, gooey cheese, rice, and crunchy tortilla strips, this copycat recipe offers the delicious taste of Taco Bell with the satisfaction of a homemade meal. Read on to learn how to make this crowd-pleaser in just a few simple steps!
Why You’ll Love This Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito Recipe
The Beefy Melt Burrito is a combination of soft, cheesy, savory, and crunchy textures all wrapped in a warm tortilla. This recipe lets you control ingredients and adjust seasonings, giving you the ultimate taco-burrito experience without the drive-thru. Plus, it’s super easy to double up for a gathering or meal prep for the week!
Ingredients for Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito
This recipe is perfect for those who want to recreate Taco Bell’s popular burrito at home. You’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup tortilla strips (optional but adds great crunch)
- 4 large flour tortillas
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat, then add taco seasoning and a bit of water according to the packet instructions. Stir until the meat is fully coated and well-seasoned. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Rice
- Use freshly cooked rice, or reheat leftover rice if available. For added flavor, you can stir in a spoonful of the nacho cheese sauce or taco seasoning into the rice.
3. Assemble the Burrito
- Warm the flour tortillas in a pan or microwave to make them pliable.
- Spread a thin layer of nacho cheese sauce in the center of each tortilla.
- Add a layer of seasoned ground beef, a spoonful of rice, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
- For the signature Taco Bell crunch, add a handful of tortilla strips.
4. Wrap It Up
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up from bottom to top to form a burrito.
- For extra authenticity, you can lightly toast the burrito in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side to create a warm, crispy wrap.
Tips for Making the Perfect Beefy Melt Burrito
- Cheese Variations: You can substitute the cheese with any favorite type; try pepper jack for extra heat!
- Extra Toppings: Add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even guacamole for a more personalized burrito.
- Make it Spicy: Drizzle hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne to the beef for an extra kick.
- Healthier Option: Swap in ground turkey and low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Serving Tips for Your Beefy Melt Burrito
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Pair your burrito with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a spicy queso dip for added flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro, green onions, or a few slices of jalapeños on the side for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Side Options: Serve with classic Tex-Mex sides like chips and salsa, refried beans, or a fresh Mexican salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Refrigerating Leftovers
- Wrap Individually: Wrap each burrito in foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat in a skillet on medium for a crispier wrap.
Freezing for Later
- Freeze Individually: Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Freezer Storage: Store in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container for up to 1 month.
- Reheating from Frozen: Remove the foil and plastic wrap, cover with a paper towel, and microwave for 3-4 minutes. For a crisp finish, heat in a skillet for an additional minute or two.
These tips will keep your Beefy Melt Burrito fresh and ready for a quick, delicious meal anytime!
1. Can I make this burrito ahead of time?
Yes! You can make these burritos in advance for easy meal prep. Assemble them as directed, then wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or skillet when ready to eat.
2. What can I use as a substitute for ground beef?
You can easily swap the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative. Black beans, lentils, or refried beans also work well as vegetarian options and add great flavor.
3. How can I make this burrito spicier?
To add extra heat, mix a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper into the taco seasoning. You can also add diced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or use spicy nacho cheese for an extra kick.
4. What’s the best way to reheat a burrito without it getting soggy?
For the best texture, remove the burrito from any plastic wrap, wrap it in a paper towel, and microwave it for 1-2 minutes. For a crispy exterior, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warm and lightly toasted.
PrintTaco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito
Description
The Beefy Melt Burrito is a Taco Bell-inspired creation loaded with seasoned ground beef, seasoned rice, nacho cheese sauce, three-cheese blend, and crunchy tortilla strips, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. This DIY version brings the iconic flavors right to your kitchen!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos 1x
- Category: Main Course, Tex-Mex
- Method: Stovetop, Assembling
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Fast Food-Inspired
Ingredients
For the Seasoned Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
For the Seasoned Rice:
- 1 cup (185g) long-grain white rice
- 2 cups (480ml) water
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp taco seasoning
For Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito-sized)
- 1 cup (240ml) nacho cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded three-cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella)
- 1 cup (40g) crunchy tortilla strips or crushed nacho chips
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, butter, and 1 tsp of taco seasoning. Stir, cover, and reduce heat to low.
- Cook for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Cook the Seasoned Beef:
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Stir to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave or in a dry skillet to make them pliable for assembly.
- Assemble the Burritos:
- Lay a tortilla flat and spread 1/4 cup of nacho cheese sauce in the center.
- Add a scoop of seasoned rice, followed by a scoop of seasoned beef.
- Sprinkle with shredded three-cheese blend and add a handful of crunchy tortilla strips.
- Top with chopped cilantro, if desired.
- Wrap the Burrito:
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
- Serve:
- Slice in half and serve hot, with a side of sour cream or extra nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Add spice: Mix in chopped jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce for a spicier burrito.
- Make it creamy: Add a spoonful of sour cream or guacamole inside the burrito.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute seasoned beef with black beans or refried beans.