This Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito is packed with tasty beef, gooey cheese, and flavorful sauces all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. It’s a delightful treat that’s super satisfying!
Who doesn’t love a burrito that’s quick and easy to make? I can whip these up in no time. Plus, they taste just like my favorite Taco Bell treat at home—bonus points for not having to wait in line!
These burritos are my go-to for a fun family dinner or a movie night snack. Just heat, wrap, and enjoy watching everyone dig in. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of your burrito. If you want a leaner option, turkey or chicken works too. For vegetarian alternatives, try using lentils or black beans as a substitute!
Taco Seasoning: Pre-packaged mixes are convenient, but homemade gives more control over spices. You can swap out spices based on your taste. For heat, add more chili powder!
Tortillas: Large flour tortillas hold everything well, but feel free to use whole-wheat or corn tortillas if you prefer. Make sure they’re soft enough to fold easily.
Creamy Nacho Cheese: This adds that classic gooeyness, but you can skip it for a healthier version. Instead, use salsa or guacamole for a fresh touch!
Cheese Blend: I love the combination of cheddar and mozzarella for melting cheese, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack adds a kick!
How Do You Make Sure Your Beefy Melt Burrito is Packed and Delicious?
The assembly is a key part of making a great burrito. Here’s how to do it right:
- Lay the tortilla flat and make sure it’s warmed up. This prevents tearing when you fold it.
- Layer carefully! Start with refried beans to create a barrier that keeps the tortilla from getting soggy. Then, add the beef, onions, cheese, and nacho sauce.
- Be mindful not to overfill. You want to be able to roll it up securely. If it’s bursting at the seams, you’ll have a mess!
- When cooking in the skillet, keep an eye on the heat. Cooking too fast can burn the outside while the cheese inside stays unmelted.
With these tips, you’re on your way to making delicious burritos everyone will enjoy!
Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, salt and pepper to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/2 cup refried beans (optional)
- 1/2 cup creamy nacho cheese sauce or processed cheese sauce
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Cooking oil or butter for skillet
- Sour cream and salsa for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you can whip these delicious burritos up in about 25 minutes total! It’s a quick meal perfect for busy evenings or late-night cravings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s cooked all the way through. As it cooks, break it apart into smaller pieces with your spatula for even cooking. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep it from being too greasy.
2. Season the Beef:
Add the taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Stir everything together, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help thicken the beef mixture and make all those flavors really come alive.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm the tortillas so they’re nice and pliable. You can do this quickly in the microwave for about 30 seconds or lightly toast them in a skillet. Just be careful not to burn them!
4. Assemble the Burritos:
On each tortilla, start by spreading a spoonful of refried beans in the center if you’re using them. Then add a generous scoop of the seasoned beef mixture. Sprinkle finely chopped onions and jalapeños (if you like a bit of heat) on top of the beef.
5. Add the Cheese:
Top it all off with a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese for that melty goodness. You can also drizzle a couple of tablespoons of creamy nacho cheese sauce over the cheese layer for extra flavor!
6. Roll the Burrito:
Now it’s time to fold. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. Make sure it’s secure so nothing falls out!
7. Cook the Burritos:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil or butter. Place the burrito seam-side down in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese is melting. Flip it over and cook the other side until it’s just as nice and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once both sides are golden, remove the burritos from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Then, slice them in half if you’d like, and serve with sour cream and salsa on the side. Enjoy your delicious homemade Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito!
FAQ for Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just be mindful that turkey can dry out more easily, so consider adding a bit more moisture or seasoning for flavor.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
No problem! You can replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu. Just make sure to season them well to achieve that tasty flavor profile.
Can I Make These Burritos Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and assemble the burritos ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat them on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.