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When I want something crunchy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor, this Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito always hits the spot. If I'm super hungry and just want a melty handful, it's what I make. Warm tortillas filled with juicy beef, crispy Fritos, creamy cheese sauce, and beans—every bite's a total win.
Whenever these are on the table at home, everyone's finished before I can sit down. The kids are all smiles and begging for seconds every single time.
Dreamy Ingredients
- Water or beef broth: keeps the filling smooth and juicy If you've got beef broth, it makes everything richer
- Mexican cheese blend: gooey and stretchy Grab the pre-shredded kind to save some time
- Refried beans: smooth, creamy, and full of plant protein Want a little something different? Black beans work too
- Mexican rice: makes it super filling and cheesy Instant rice from the store is super quick
- Salsa (optional): brings fresh flavor Spoon on some chunky salsa from a jar or make a quick pico
- Fritos or Doritos: the crunch you crave Doritos give you a punchier flavor, but Fritos are the classic
- Taco seasoning: brings all those zesty flavors Low-sodium works if you're watching salt, or make your own for less or more heat
- Lean ground beef: hearty and satisfying For the juiciest result, try eighty five percent lean
- Burrito flour tortillas: soft and easy to roll Stay on the lookout for fresh tortillas—they're more bendy
- Cheese dip: adds melty creaminess Warm it first for spreading Queso works awesome here
- Sour cream: gives it a cool, tangy bite Whole milk kinds taste the richest
Simple Steps
- Spice Up the Filling:
- Once your beef is browned, sprinkle on the taco seasoning and add a splash of water or broth Mix it up and let it simmer so everything soaks up flavor and thickens a bit
- Brown Your Beef:
- Add ground beef to a pan and cook on medium Break it up and stir until no more pink—usually six to eight minutes
- Mix in the Beans:
- Toss those refried beans into your cooked meat Stir it all until creamy If it's getting thick, add a splash of water to loosen it
- Time to Build:
- Lay a tortilla flat, add a big scoop of the beef and bean mix in the middle Pile on hot rice Next, sprinkle on crushed Fritos or Doritos Drizzle on warm cheese dip Spread shredded cheese on top Then spoon on some sour cream
- Toast and Finish:
- Place each rolled burrito seam down in a dry skillet on medium Let it toast for a couple minutes, then flip Toast until you see a gold, crispy crust This locks in the crunch and flavor
- Get Your Rice and Tortillas Ready:
- Heat up leftover rice or cook instant following the package Warm up your tortillas wrapped in a damp towel in the microwave for around thirty seconds—makes them super soft
- Serve While Hot:
- Eat the burritos right away while everything is crunchy and cheese is nice and melty Add salsa on the side if you want These taste best fresh
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My favorite thing? It's gotta be those Fritos. That big crunch makes these totally craveable. Rolling these up is a fun family job—my kids love loading on their favorite toppings and rolling 'em just how they like.
Smart Leftovers
Wrap up any leftovers tight in plastic or foil to keep 'em moist. They'll hang out in the fridge for up to five days. Want that crunch back? Toss them in a hot skillet before serving. Thinking ahead? Skip the Fritos and freeze the burritos wrapped in foil. Good for about three months in the freezer. Reheat from frozen or thaw in the fridge, then pop in the oven or microwave.
Swap Options
Want a lighter bite? Trade beef for turkey or ground chicken. No refried beans or looking for more bite? Try pintos or black beans. Need to skip dairy? Use your favorite plant cheese and sour cream. Any tortilla works, but flour ones roll easiest, and honestly, whatever cheese you like will taste fine.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair your burrito with a crisp salad—add sliced avocado and a pop of lime to brighten it up. Mexican-style corn or beans and rice are perfect when you're hungry. Want finger food? Slice burritos into rolls for easy snacks. A spoonful more salsa and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro tops it all off.
Tasty Tidbits
Originating in northern Mexico over a century ago, burritos began as a simple, filling meal. Taco Bell put their twist on it for American eaters, adding cheesy layers and that must-have crunch. At home, you get to spin it your way—making it both a throwback and totally your own.
FAQs About the Recipe
- → How do I keep my chips snappy inside?
Wait to wrap your burrito until right before chowing down so those chips keep their crunch and don't get soggy.
- → Any subs for the beef?
Absolutely! Change it up with ground turkey, chicken, or toss in some plant-based crumbles. Still yummy and totally Tex-Mex.
- → What's the best cheese to use?
Pick up a bag of Mexican shredded blend for smooth melting—cheddar or Monterey Jack melt easy and taste just as good, too.
- → Should I pan-fry it or eat it soft?
Do what you like. Toasting it gives you a crispy layer on the outside, but eating it straight from assembly keeps everything soft and cozy.
- → Can I freeze extras?
Yes, totally! Just skip the chips before freezing since they'll turn mushy. Tuck in fresh chips once you reheat for maximum crunch.