This Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito is a tasty treat! Packed with seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and soft tortillas, it’s like a warm hug for your belly.
I love making these when I want a quick dinner. They’re super easy to whip up, plus you can add your favorite toppings like sour cream or hot sauce for extra yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 80% lean ground beef for that perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner meat, you can choose 90% lean, but it might be less juicy. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken can also work well!
Taco Seasoning: Using a packet is convenient, but homemade is great too! Just mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. This lets you adjust spices to your taste and control the salt level.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are classic for this recipe, but corn tortillas can be used if you prefer a gluten-free option. Just be gentle as they can break more easily.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a favorite for melting, but you can use a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat!
Optional Ingredients: The refried beans add creaminess, so give them a shot! For toppings, cilantro or jalapeños can also enhance your burrito.
How Do You Make Perfect Burritos Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling a burrito can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- Use enough filling, but don’t overstuff! About 1/2 cup of filling per burrito works well.
- Once you add your filling, fold the sides in first. This helps to keep everything secure.
- Then, start rolling from the bottom upwards tightly, but not so tight that it splits the tortilla.
- Make sure the seam is on the bottom when placing it in the skillet to help it stay closed.
Practicing this technique will make you a burrito-rolling pro in no time!
How to Make an Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade equivalent)
- 2/3 cup water
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/2 cup finely diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup canned refried beans (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that you can whip up even on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Brown it while breaking it up with a spoon. Once it’s nicely cooked, drain any excess fat so it’s not greasy.
2. Add Onions:
Toss in the diced onions and cook them with the beef for about 2-3 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Season the Mixture:
Stir in the taco seasoning mix along with the 2/3 cup of water. Let this simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors come together and thicken up the filling.
4. Optional Creaminess:
If you want a creamier filling, stir in the refried beans at this stage. It makes the mixture even more delicious!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In a dry skillet or the microwave, warm the flour tortillas until they are nice and pliable. This makes them easier to roll without tearing.
6. Assemble the Burrito:
Lay a warm tortilla flat on a plate and spoon a generous layer of the beef mixture down the center. Top it with shredded cheese and diced tomatoes, if you wish.
7. Roll It Up:
Carefully fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll from the bottom up tightly, securing all that goodness inside.
8. Cook the Burrito:
In the skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter over medium heat. Place the burrito seam side down in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip it over gently and cook the other side until golden and the cheese has melted.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the burrito from the skillet and repeat with the remaining ones. Serve warm with sour cream, salsa, or your favorite hot sauce on the side. Enjoy your delightful homemade Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burritos!
FAQ for Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just be aware that it might require a bit more seasoning to enhance its flavor, so feel free to add extra spices if needed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked black beans, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives. Just add some seasoning to mimic the taco flavor!
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Yes! You can make the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to assemble your burritos!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burritos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave until heated through, or warm them up in a skillet for a crispy finish.