This Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito is a tasty wrap filled with seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and zesty sauce. It’s like a fiesta in every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives. Both work well and provide similar flavor.
Taco Seasoning: I love using homemade seasoning for freshness. You can mix spices according to your taste. If you prefer less spice, skip the chili powder and stick to cumin and paprika.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice! I mix in mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese or leave it out entirely for a lighter burrito.
Flour Tortillas: Large tortillas are the best for wrapping. If you’re gluten-free, corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps can substitute. Just be careful when rolling them as they may crack.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Flavorful Beef?
Getting the beef just right is key for this burrito’s flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Brown the beef in a hot skillet to develop a nice crust. This adds flavor.
- Don’t rush! Cook the onions with the beef for a few minutes until they’re soft and sweet.
- Let the taco seasoning mix thoroughly with the beef and simmer to let all flavors meld together. It makes a big difference!
By taking these steps, you’ll create a tasty filling that really captures that Taco Bell vibe at home!
How to Make an Easy Taco Bell Style Beefy Melt Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp oregano, salt & pepper to taste)
- 2/3 cup water
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies or jalapeños (optional for heat)
For the Cheese and Tortillas:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
For the Spread and Cooking:
- 1/4 cup sour cream or creamy taco sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter for grilling
- Optional: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or salsa for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and cooking, plus a few minutes to let the burritos rest. In total, you can have your Beefy Melt Burrito ready in about 25 minutes. Quick and scrumptious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, place the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep cooking it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.
2. Add Vegetables:
If you’re using onions and green chilies or jalapeños, add them to the beef now. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Season the Mixture:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef. Pour in the water, and stir everything well. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to let it thicken for about 5 minutes. Once it’s thickened, take it off the heat.
4. Prepare the Tortillas:
To make the tortillas easier to wrap, warm them up slightly. You can do this in the microwave for about 20 seconds or on a dry skillet until they’re a bit soft.
5. Assemble the Burritos:
Spread a spoonful of sour cream or taco sauce onto each tortilla. Then, spoon a generous serving of the beef mixture down the center of each tortilla. Top the beef with a mix of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
6. Roll Them Up:
To wrap the burritos, fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly starting from the bottom. Make sure to enfold the filling securely.
7. Grill the Burritos:
In a clean skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil or butter over medium heat. Place each burrito seam-side down in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Flip them over and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through. Add more oil or butter as needed.
8. Serve:
Take the burritos out of the skillet and let them rest for a minute. This makes sure everything inside settles a bit. Serve the burritos hot with optional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, or guacamole on the side. Enjoy your Beefy Melt Burrito!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lower-fat alternative and works well in this recipe. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor compared to beef.
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own using spices you likely have at home. Combine 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, and a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano for a tasty homemade mix!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. For vegan, make sure to use dairy-free cheese and leave out the sour cream or use a vegan version!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap burritos in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or heat them on a skillet until warmed through.
