Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito

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Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito with cheese and beef wrapped in a tortilla

WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE

Taco Bell’s Beefy Melt Burrito is a popular choice for many taco lovers, and for a good reason. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make at home. When you prepare this recipe yourself, you can control the ingredients and make it just the way you like. Plus, it’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty snack. The combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and your favorite toppings wrapped in a warm tortilla provides a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

HOW TO MAKE Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
  • 1/4 cup water or beef broth
  • 1 cup refried beans (optional)
  • Tortillas
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream (optional)
  • Diced tomatoes (optional)
  • Chopped lettuce (optional)

DIRECTIONS

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, place the ground beef. Cook until it is browned, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add Seasoning: Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat. Then, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef. Pour in the water or beef broth. Stir well to combine everything. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld.
  3. Warm the Refried Beans: If you are using refried beans, heat them up in a separate saucepan over medium heat. This helps them to be spreadable when assembling your burrito.
  4. Assemble the Burrito: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. In the center of the tortilla, add a portion of the beef mixture. If you are using refried beans, spread a layer of them on top of the beef. Then sprinkle some cheddar cheese and any other toppings you like, such as diced tomatoes or chopped lettuce.
  5. Roll the Burrito: To roll your burrito, start at one end and fold it over the filling. Tuck in the sides as you continue to roll it tightly until you have a complete burrito.
  6. Serve: Place the burrito seam-side down on a plate. You can serve it with sour cream or any other additional toppings you desire.

HOW TO SERVE Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito

You can serve your Beefy Melt Burritos warm, straight from the skillet, or you can allow them to cool for a couple of minutes. They pair well with sides like tortilla chips, guacamole, or a simple salad. If you want to add an extra touch, you could warm the burrito in a skillet for a minute or two on each side to give it a nice crisp finish. Just be careful not to overdo it.

HOW TO STORE Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito

If you have leftovers, you can store the burritos in an airtight container. Place them in the refrigerator, and they should keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.

TIPS TO MAKE Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito

  • Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier option, choose lean ground beef. This will reduce the fat without sacrificing flavor.
  • Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add any of your favorite ingredients, like jalapeños, black olives, or different types of cheese.
  • Warm Your Tortillas: Heating your tortillas slightly before assembly makes them easier to roll and adds an extra layer of flavor.
  • Experiment with Spices: If you want a little more heat, try adding hot sauce or diced chilies to the beef mixture.

VARIATIONS

  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with quinoa or a mix of beans for a meatless option. You can also use additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
  • Add Rice: For a heartier burrito, add cooked rice to the filling. It adds bulk while also soaking in some flavors.
  • Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist, or even a mix of cheeses for more complexity.

FAQs

  1. Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the filling the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before wrapping it in tortillas.

  2. What can I use instead of taco seasoning?
    You can make your own taco seasoning using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. This allows you to control the flavors and spice level.

  3. How can I make these burritos less messy?
    Use a smaller amount of filling to avoid overstuffing. Additionally, make sure all ingredients, especially beans, are warm so they spread easily and don’t cool the tortilla too quickly.

By making the Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito at home, you not only savor a delicious meal but also enjoy the process of cooking. Share these tasty burritos with family and friends, and you may just find that they become a new favorite in your household!