This Beefy Melt Burrito is a fun homemade version of your favorite Taco Bell treat! Filled with ground beef, cheesy goodness, and wrapped in a warm tortilla, it’s super satisfying.
Sometimes, I think the best part is how easy it is to whip up! I enjoy making a few extra to keep in the fridge—perfect for those late-night cravings when I really don’t want to cook!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the burrito hearty flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great too. You can also try plant-based meat for a vegetarian version!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but you can easily make your own with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder if you have those on hand. This way, you control the spiciness!
Rice: White or brown rice both work well. If you’re short on time, you can use instant rice. Quinoa or cauliflower rice is a nice healthy alternative for a lower-carb meal!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a classic flavor, but feel free to substitute with pepper jack for a little heat or Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Vegan cheese options are available if you’re dairy-free.
Fritos Corn Chips: These add fantastic crunch! If you don’t have Fritos, tortilla chips or crushed corn chips can provide a similar texture. You could also skip it if you’re looking for a healthier option.
How Do You Make Sure Your Burritos Don’t Fall Apart?
To keep your burritos intact, it’s key to manage how much filling you use. Overstuffing can lead to mess!
- Place the filling in the center of the tortilla, leaving about 1.5 inches on the sides.
- Fold in the sides first, then roll tightly from the bottom to the top. This helps seal everything inside.
If you want extra security, grill the burritos in a skillet as mentioned in the recipe. This not only makes them crispy but also helps seal the edges!
How to Make a Taco Bell Copycat Beefy Melt Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
For the Rice and Cheese Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
For Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup Fritos corn chips
- Optional: diced onions, jalapeños, or hot sauce for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the beef, and then around another 10-15 minutes assembling the burritos. If you choose to grill them for extra crispiness, add a few extra minutes. It’s easy and super tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat your stove to medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Season the Beef:
Stir in the taco seasoning and water into the cooked beef. Mix it well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will help the flavors combine and thicken the mixture a bit.
3. Prepare the Rice and Cheese Mixture:
While the beef is cooking, take a mixing bowl and combine the cooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and nacho cheese sauce. Stir everything together until well mixed and creamy.
4. Assemble the Burrito:
Take a flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spoon a portion of the beef mixture into the center of the tortilla. Follow that with a layer of the rice and cheese mixture. Top it off with a handful of Fritos corn chips for some incredible crunch!
5. Roll It Up:
To roll the burrito, first fold in the sides of the tortilla. Then, starting from the bottom, roll it up tightly to secure all the yummy fillings inside. Make sure it’s nice and snug!
6. Optional – Grill for Extra Crispiness:
If you like your burritos crispy, heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the rolled burritos in the skillet and grill each side for about 1-2 minutes or until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious homemade Beefy Melt Burritos immediately. You can drizzle some extra nacho cheese or add your favorite hot sauce on the side. Enjoy every bite of your tasty creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, but keep in mind that turkey might take a bit longer to brown than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier substitute. It provides a similar creaminess and tanginess. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, try using a cashew cream or even mashed avocado for a different flavor profile!
How to Store Leftover Burritos?
To store leftovers, wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly in the microwave or oven before consuming!
Can I Make These Burritos Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make these burritos vegetarian! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, or use black beans or refried beans for protein. Add your favorite veggies and toppings to customize your delicious vegetarian burrito!
