If you’ve ever had a Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito, you already know—it’s crave-worthy comfort food wrapped in a warm tortilla. This homemade version gives you everything you love about the original: seasoned beef, fluffy rice, gooey cheese, and zesty sauces. The best part? You can whip it up at home in no time, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, satisfying, and downright delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and Filling: This burrito packs in flavor and protein, and it comes together quickly with just a few simple steps.
- Cheesy, Meaty Goodness: A perfect balance of melty cheese, seasoned beef, and creamy sauces, wrapped in a warm tortilla—need we say more?
- Customizable: Whether you like it spicy, mild, vegetarian, or extra saucy, this burrito is super easy to tweak to your taste.
- Budget-Friendly: Skip the drive-thru and save some money while still satisfying your fast food cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground beef: The hearty base of the burrito, seasoned to perfection with classic Tex-Mex spices.
- Taco seasoning: Adds depth, smokiness, and a kick of heat. Use homemade or your favorite store-bought mix.
- Cooked white rice: A fluffy filler that adds texture and makes the burrito extra satisfying.
- Nacho cheese sauce: For that signature creamy, cheesy melt—don’t skip this!
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Adds stretchiness and richness when melted inside the burrito.
- Sour cream: Creamy, tangy, and balances out the spices. You can also use a light or Greek yogurt alternative.
- Fiesta tortilla strips: For crunch! These add a surprise texture that keeps every bite interesting.
- Warm flour tortillas: Choose large burrito-size ones so you can stuff them full without breaking.
- Optional add-ins: Jalapeños, black beans, or diced tomatoes if you want more flair.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef for black beans, refried beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add pickled jalapeños, chipotle sauce, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the filling in a bowl over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
- Breakfast Style: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage for a hearty morning twist.
How to Make Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat, then add taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer for a few minutes until thick and fragrant.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the beef simmers, heat the nacho cheese sauce (a few seconds in the microwave works great) and warm your tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
Step 3: Assemble the Burrito
Lay a tortilla flat and spread a scoop of warm rice in the center. Top with a spoonful of seasoned beef, a drizzle of nacho cheese, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a small handful of tortilla strips.
Step 4: Fold and Toast
Fold the burrito tightly—sides in first, then roll from the bottom up. For an extra treat, toast the burrito seam-side down in a skillet for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Slice in half or enjoy whole with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or even more nacho cheese!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to load it up, but overfilling makes it hard to wrap. Keep portions moderate for the best results.
- Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh or freshly heated tortillas are less likely to tear and give you that soft, pillowy texture.
- Add Layers Strategically: Place cheese near the hot beef so it melts perfectly, and keep sour cream away from direct heat so it stays cool and creamy.
- Make it Crisp: Toasting the burrito in a skillet adds an extra layer of flavor and helps it hold together.
How to Serve
This burrito is satisfying all on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try these ideas:
Sides:
- A simple side of tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole.
- Street corn (elote) or a fresh corn salad for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- A chopped salad with lime vinaigrette to balance out the richness.
Sauces:
- Serve with extra nacho cheese, spicy ranch, or your favorite hot sauce for dipping.
Drink Pairings:
- A cold glass of horchata, a fizzy lime soda, or a light Mexican beer complements the bold flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap cooled burritos individually in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Wrap each burrito tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Label with the date so you don’t forget!
Reheating
Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through. For best results, unwrap and toast in a skillet after microwaving to regain that fresh texture.
FAQs
Can I make this burrito ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes! Assemble the burritos, wrap them in foil or parchment, and store in the fridge. Reheat when ready to eat. They’re great for grabbing on the go.
What type of rice works best?
White rice is classic, but feel free to use brown rice or cilantro-lime rice for extra flavor. Just make sure it’s cooked and fluffy.
Can I use shredded cheese instead of nacho cheese sauce?
You can, but the nacho cheese sauce gives the burrito its signature creaminess. Use both for the best of both worlds!
How do I keep the burrito from falling apart?
Warm tortillas and don’t overfill. Wrap tightly and consider toasting the burrito seam-side down to seal everything in.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito recipe brings that indulgent fast-food flavor straight to your kitchen with zero hassle. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make, even on your busiest nights. Try it once, and it just might become your new go-to burrito fix!
PrintTaco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This homemade version of Taco Bell’s Beefy Melt Burrito is packed with seasoned beef, creamy nacho cheese, fluffy rice, and crunchy tortilla strips—all wrapped in a warm tortilla for the ultimate comfort food fix.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fiesta tortilla strips
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
- Optional: jalapeños, black beans, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer until thickened and fragrant.
- Meanwhile, warm the nacho cheese sauce and tortillas.
- Lay a tortilla flat. Add a layer of rice, then beef, drizzle nacho cheese, sprinkle shredded cheese, add sour cream and tortilla strips.
- Fold the burrito tightly: sides in first, then roll from the bottom up.
- Toast seam-side down in a skillet for 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Use fresh or freshly heated tortillas to prevent tearing.
- To keep sour cream cool, add it after placing hot ingredients.
- Toast the burrito for added texture and to help it stay wrapped.
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