This Beefy Melt Burrito is a fun and easy way to enjoy a favorite fast-food treat at home! Packed with seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and creamy sauce, it’s super satisfying.
Who doesn’t love a burrito that’s cheesy and meaty? I usually make extra so I can have one for lunch the next day—because who wants to share? 😄
I love that making this at home is so simple! Just wrap it all up, heat it, and enjoy. It’s a delicious way to get that Taco Bell vibe without leaving the house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef helps keep your burrito hearty without too much grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives; they work great too!
Taco Seasoning: The packet is convenient, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. It’s a fun way to control the flavor and spice level!
Rice: White rice or Spanish rice both work nicely. If you’re short on time, consider using instant rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Nacho Cheese Sauce: For a homemade touch, you can melt processed cheese with a splash of milk and some jalapeños. If you’re avoiding dairy, look for vegan cheese options or skip it altogether.
Fritos Corn Chips: These add a nice crunch! You can substitute with crushed tortilla chips or even crispy corn cereal in a pinch!
How Do I Properly Assemble My Burrito?
Assembling a burrito can look tricky, but it’s really straightforward with a few tips. The key is to keep the filling centralized and avoid overstuffing, which can make it difficult to roll.
- First, lay your tortilla flat on a plate or clean surface.
- Add a portion of the beef in the center, followed by a layer of the rice and cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle some Fritos on top for crunch.
- If you want sour cream and hot sauce, add them next! It adds flavor without making it too messy.
- To wrap it, fold the sides toward the center, then roll from the bottom edge upwards until fully wrapped.
Finally, if you grill the burrito, it adds a nice crispy texture that’s hard to resist. Just remember to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
How to Make Taco Bell Copycat Beefy Melt Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or Spanish)
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Fritos corn chips
For the Burrito:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Hot sauce (optional, to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend some time cooking and mixing the ingredients before rolling them up in tortillas. If you choose to grill the burritos for a crispy finish, it adds a few more minutes to your cooking time. But overall, it’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet once the beef is cooked.
2. Season the Beef:
Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the cooked beef. Follow the instructions on the seasoning packet—usually, you’ll add a bit of water and let it simmer for a few minutes to really absorb the flavors.
3. Prepare the Rice and Cheese Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, nacho cheese sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well blended. This cheesy goodness is going to make your burrito extra tasty!
4. Assemble the Burritos:
Now, lay out the 4 flour tortillas on a flat surface. In the center of each tortilla, place a portion of the taco beef mixture. On top of that, spoon in a generous amount of the rice and cheese mixture. Sprinkle some Fritos corn chips on top for that crunch!
5. Add Extras:
If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dollop of sour cream and a splash of hot sauce to each burrito for extra flavor. This is totally optional, but it can really elevate your experience!
6. Roll the Burritos:
To fold up your burrito, first, tuck in the sides of the tortilla inward. Then, starting from the bottom, roll the burrito up tightly all the way to the top. Make sure everything is snug so nothing spills out!
7. Grill the Burritos (Optional):
If you want your burritos crispy, heat a skillet over medium heat again. Place the rolled burritos in the skillet and grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re lightly golden and crispy. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Taco Bell Copycat Beefy Melt Burritos are now ready to enjoy! Serve them warm and dig in. You won’t believe how delicious these homemade burritos are!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for ground beef. Just cook it in the same way, and you might want to add a bit more seasoning since turkey has a milder flavor. You can also ensure it stays juicy by not overcooking it.
What Can I Substitute for Nacho Cheese Sauce?
If you don’t have nacho cheese sauce, you can easily make your own! Just melt some cheddar cheese with a splash of milk and a bit of taco seasoning for flavor. Alternatively, you can use cream cheese mixed with shredded cheese to achieve a creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Burritos?
Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also wrap them in foil or plastic wrap for better preservation. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I Freeze These Burritos?
Yes, you can freeze the burritos! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then heat them in the microwave or oven.
