This Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito is a tasty treat packed with seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and zesty sauce—all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. It’s quick and oh-so-yummy!
It’s like having a fast-food favorite at home! I love customizing mine with extra cheese or some spicy salsa—because why not spice things up? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This provides the main protein. You can substitute ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative to cater to different diets.
Taco Seasoning: Using a packet saves time, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a fresher taste.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar works well, but feel free to blend in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor. Vegan cheese is an option if you’re going dairy-free.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are classic, but you can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. Just be gentle when rolling them up.
How Do You Get Your Burritos Extra Cheesy?
To achieve that delightful melty cheese effect inside your burrito, layering the cheese in two spots is key. First, sprinkle some on the seasoned beef, then add more after folding the sides. This ensures cheese melts on both the inside and ends.
- Warm tortillas for pliability, making them easier to roll.
- Cooking burritos seam-side down helps keep them rolled up while crisping them nicely.
- Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning, ensuring the insides get nice and warm without overcooking.
Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/4 cup water
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), drained
- 1/4 cup sour cream or nacho cheese sauce (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter, for cooking
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to get these delicious burritos ready to serve! Perfect for a quick meal any time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions (if you’re using them). Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s extra grease, just drain it off to keep it nice and lean.
2. Season the Beef:
Next, stir in the taco seasoning mix along with 1/4 cup of water. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer, stirring occasionally until most of the liquid has absorbed and the beef is well flavored—this will take about 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm your flour tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds until soft and pliable. This makes them easier to roll!
4. Fill the Tortillas:
Lay each tortilla flat on your workspace and scoop a quarter of the seasoned beef mixture into the center of each. Top that with a good sprinkle of shredded cheese and some of the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies for that extra kick.
5. Add Toppings:
If you want, drizzle on some sour cream or nacho cheese sauce for added creaminess. Yum!
6. Roll Your Burritos:
To wrap up your burrito, fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling first, then roll it up tightly from one end to the other. Make sure the filling stays snug inside!
7. Cook the Burritos:
In a clean skillet, heat the vegetable oil or butter over medium heat. Place the burritos seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Carefully flip them over and cook the other side until golden as well and the cheese inside is melted.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove from the skillet and serve hot! Add any optional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or your favorite salsa to take it to the next level.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Beefy Melt Burrito just like they make at Taco Bell, right from the comfort of your kitchen!
FAQ for Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great low-fat alternative to beef. Just make sure to season it well, as it can be less flavorful on its own. The taco seasoning will help with that!
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Adjust according to your taste for a personal touch!
Can I Freeze Leftover Burritos?
Yes, you can freeze the burritos! Wrap them tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, just unwrap and warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
How Do I Make This Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply swap the ground beef for a mixture of beans (like black beans or refried beans), and add extra veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added flavor and texture!