Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito

This Beefy Melt Burrito delivers all the savory layers you crave from your favorite fast-food spot without leaving your kitchen. With well-seasoned beef, creamy nacho cheese, and the option for crunchy tortillas and fluffy rice, it is a satisfying and customizable meal for lunch or dinner.

The first time I tested this version my husband could not believe it was homemade and polished off two in one sitting.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose 80 20 for the juiciest and most flavorful filling look for fresh local meat if possible
• Taco Bell seasoning mix: Delivers that signature flavor you know or use your favorite homemade taco blend
• Water: Helps blend the seasoning into rich saucy beef
• Flour tortillas: Burrito size gives you room for all the fillings check for softness and bend to ensure freshness
• Nacho cheese sauce: Creates creamy gooey melt use store bought or melt Velveeta with a splash of milk for the best texture
• Sour cream: Adds a cool tangy layer always pick full fat for best flavor and texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend: Offers melty cheesy goodness freshly shredded cheese melts best
• Optional seasoned rice: Adds extra heartiness and that classic Taco Bell touch use day old rice for the best texture
• Optional crispy tostada shells: Brings crunch crush gently by hand for even pieces

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Beef:

Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat break it into crumbles with a spatula cook until fully browned and no pink remains this builds deep savory flavor

Drain excess fat then sprinkle over the taco seasoning pour in water and stir well simmer for five minutes or until the liquid is almost gone and the beef is saucy and fragrant:

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

Warm nacho cheese sauce in a small saucepan over low heat stir frequently until perfectly smooth if using Velveeta add a splash of milk and stir until velvety and creamy

Assemble the Burrito:

Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface place about a fourth of the seasoned beef in the center

Spoon a generous layer of hot nacho cheese sauce over the beef top with a spoonful of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese If you want crunch scatter some crushed tostada pieces now add a scoop of seasoned rice if using:

Roll It Up:

Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling then roll it up tightly from the bottom up tucking as you roll to keep everything inside

Toast and Serve:

Place burrito seam side down in a dry skillet over medium heat cook for two to three minutes per side until golden and just crisp cut in half and serve immediately while warm and melty

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I will never forget my kids’ faces when they first tried these homemade they both asked for seconds before they finished their first

Storage Tips

Wrap leftovers tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to three days For longer storage wrap individually in plastic then foil and freeze for up to two months Reheat in the microwave or a skillet for best results Heating in a dry pan after thawing will bring back that perfect crisped tortilla

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey for beef for a lighter version For a vegetarian twist fill with black or pinto beans or crumbled spicy tofu Dairy free cheese and sour cream work great here as well If you cannot find nacho cheese use shredded cheese and let it melt while the burrito warms in the pan

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burritos with classic restaurant toppings like pico de gallo shredded lettuce or guacamole For a party platter slice into thirds and arrange with a little bowl of salsa or creamy jalapeno sauce These burritos also pair perfectly with tortilla chips and a side of beans

Cultural Context

Inspired by beloved Tex Mex flavors and the famous Taco Bell lineup this recipe blends American fast food nostalgia with classic burrito comfort The cheese sauce and seasoned beef are a nod to the craveable drive thru specials that have become part of so many family traditions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make the burrito spicy?

For heat, add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy taco seasoning to the beef filling before rolling your burrito.

→ What can I use instead of beef?

Swap ground beef for black beans, refried beans, or seasoned tofu for a vegetarian option with the same delicious flavor.

→ How do I keep burritos from falling apart?

Don’t overfill the tortillas, fold in the edges tightly, and toast seam side down in a skillet to keep them intact.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the burritos, wrap them in foil, and refrigerate. Toast or microwave when ready to eat for best results.

→ Is the nacho cheese sauce essential?

Nacho cheese adds signature flavor and creaminess. Substitute with shredded cheese or a cheese blend if needed.

→ How do I add more texture?

Include crushed tostada shells or tortilla chips for crispiness, or try adding seasoned rice for extra bulk.