Skip the drive-thru and make the iconic Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito right in your kitchen! This easy and delicious copycat recipe captures all the flavors you love—seasoned beef, melty cheese, fluffy rice, and crispy tortilla strips wrapped in a warm tortilla. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Budget-Friendly: Make multiple burritos for a fraction of the cost of eating out.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients you likely already have.
Ingredients
This recipe calls for pantry staples like ground beef, cheese, and tortillas. Here’s a sneak peek of the ingredients you’ll need:
- Ground beef: The star of the show, seasoned to perfection.
- Taco seasoning: Adds that classic Mexican-inspired flavor.
- Cooked rice: Helps bulk up the burrito while staying tender.
- Nacho cheese sauce: For that signature Taco Bell creamy kick.
- Crispy tortilla strips: Add a satisfying crunch.
- The full ingredient list and measurements are down below!
Directions
- Cook the beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add taco seasoning and water, letting it simmer until fully cooked.
- Prepare the rice: Warm up cooked rice and mix in a little butter or lime juice for extra flavor.
- Assemble the burrito: Lay a warm tortilla flat, spread nacho cheese sauce, layer seasoned beef, rice, shredded cheese, and tortilla strips.
- Wrap it up: Fold in the sides, roll tightly, and warm the burrito on a skillet for a toasted finish.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave or oven to make them easier to fold.
- Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty cheese experience.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and crunch.
- Substitute the nacho cheese sauce with shredded cheese if you prefer a less creamy burrito.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve these burritos with a side of chips and salsa, guacamole, or a crisp green salad. For drinks, a zesty margarita or a cold soda pairs perfectly!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Wrap each burrito tightly in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet for a crispier texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble them, wrap in foil, and store in the fridge. Heat them up when you’re ready to eat.
Q: Can I freeze these burritos?
A: Absolutely! Wrap them in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Q: What kind of rice works best?
A: White or Spanish rice works great, but feel free to use brown rice for a healthier twist.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Swap the beef for seasoned black beans or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Conclusion
Recreating Taco Bell’s Beefy Melt Burrito at home has never been easier or tastier. This recipe delivers all the classic flavors you crave, with the bonus of being totally customizable. Perfect for taco nights, quick lunches, or anytime you want to treat yourself to some fast-food goodness without leaving the house. Enjoy!
Print
Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Assembling
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This copycat recipe replicates Taco Bell’s cheesy, crunchy Beefy Melt Burrito, featuring seasoned beef, Mexican rice, and Fritos, all wrapped in a warm tortilla for a satisfying bite every time.
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- 1 cup refried beans (optional)
- 2 cups cooked Mexican rice (instant or homemade)
- For the Assembly:
- 4 burrito-sized flour tortillas
- 2 cups Fritos (or substitute with Doritos for a twist)
- 1 cup nacho cheese dip (warmed)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart. Add taco seasoning and water or broth, stirring to coat. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes. Mix in refried beans if using. - Cook the Rice
Prepare Mexican rice as per package instructions or use leftovers. - Warm the Tortillas
Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them pliable. - Assemble the Burritos
- Lay a tortilla flat. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center.
- Top with an equal amount of rice, then add Fritos, cheese dip, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling.
- Toast (Optional)
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Toast each burrito seam-side down for 2-3 minutes, flipping to brown both sides. - Serve
Enjoy with a side of salsa, guacamole, or chips for the ultimate meal.
Notes
- Customizations: Add diced jalapeños, lettuce, or spicy sauces like Diablo for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with black beans or lentils.
- Storage: Refrigerate burritos for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: ~450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: ~950mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: ~50mg