This Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito is a satisfying and hearty meal that I love to make at home. It combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, Mexican rice, creamy cheese dip, fresh sour cream, and crunchy Fritos—all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. The mix of textures and flavors makes every bite enjoyable and deeply comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it perfectly captures the essence of the original Taco Bell favorite but with fresh, homemade ingredients. The seasoned beef is rich and flavorful, the cheese dip adds a gooey layer of indulgence, and the Fritos give a satisfying crunch. It’s easy to make, customizable, and comes together quickly, making it a great option for a filling dinner or lunch.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 pound lean ground beef
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1 packet taco seasoning
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¼ cup water or beef broth
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1 cup refried beans (optional)
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2 cups cooked Mexican rice
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4 large burrito-sized flour tortillas
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2 cups Fritos corn chips
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1 cup warm cheese dip (such as nacho cheese)
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1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
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½ cup sour cream
directions
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I start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up until fully cooked.
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I add taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine and letting it simmer for a few minutes. Then I mix in the refried beans to add creaminess to the filling.
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While the beef cooks, I warm the tortillas and Mexican rice separately.
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To assemble, I lay a tortilla flat and add a layer of the beef and bean mixture, followed by a scoop of rice.
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Next, I add a handful of Fritos for crunch, spoonful of warm cheese dip, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
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I fold in the sides and roll the tortilla tightly into a burrito shape.
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For extra crispness and melted cheese, I like to toast the burrito in a hot skillet for a minute or two on each side before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 burritos and takes about 30 minutes total—15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook.
Variations
I often swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if I want a lighter option. Adding sautéed onions, peppers, or corn adds extra veggies and flavor. For a spicier kick, I sometimes add jalapeños or hot sauce either inside or on top.
storage/reheating
Leftover burritos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I usually leave off the Fritos when storing, as they tend to get soggy. To reheat, I warm the burritos in a skillet or oven until heated through and add fresh chips on top to restore crunch. Burritos can also be frozen without chips for up to 3 months; I thaw and heat them before serving.
FAQs
Can I prepare these burritos ahead of time?
I prefer to assemble the burritos just before eating to keep the Fritos crunchy, but the filling can be made in advance.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
I use gluten-free tortillas and double-check that the taco seasoning doesn’t contain gluten.
Is it okay to skip the refried beans?
Yes, the burrito still tastes great without the beans or you can substitute black beans.
What kind of cheese dip should I use?
I use a warm nacho cheese dip, either store-bought or homemade, for the best melty texture.
How do I keep the tortilla from tearing?
Warming the tortillas briefly in the microwave makes them more pliable and easier to roll.
Conclusion
Making this Beefy Melt Burrito at home is a fun and tasty way to enjoy a Tex-Mex favorite. The blend of seasoned beef, creamy beans, gooey cheese, and crunchy Fritos wrapped in a warm tortilla hits every craving perfectly. It’s a quick meal I love to serve fresh and hot, especially when I want a satisfying comfort food fix.