This Easy Beefy Melt Burrito is all about cheesy goodness and hearty beef! It wraps up seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and a touch of salsa in a warm tortilla—yum!
You’ll love how quick it is to make. Perfect for busy nights! I often add extra toppings like sour cream or guacamole to make it even more fun to eat. Who can resist a burrito party? 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds richness to the burrito. You can opt for lean beef if you prefer less fat or turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try using black beans or lentils instead.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning is super convenient but making your own with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder is fun and allows for customization! This way, you can adjust the spice levels to your liking.
Rice: I love using Mexican rice for that extra flavor, but plain white rice or even quinoa could work well too. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rice packets is a game changer.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives it that classic burrito taste, but if you’re looking for a different flavor, try Monterey Jack or a taco cheese blend. Vegan cheese can also work well for a plant-based option!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are my favorite for their softness, but corn tortillas are another option if you’re after a gluten-free version. Just remember, they are a bit smaller, so adjust your filling amount accordingly.
How Do I Make Sure My Burritos Stay Closed?
Folding burritos can be tricky! Here’s how to roll them right:
- Start with a warm tortilla, as this makes it more flexible. Lay it flat on a plate.
- Add your fillings in the center, but don’t overfill—about a few spoonfuls is perfect.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla in first, like tucking a napkin around food.
- Then, roll from the bottom up while keeping the sides tucked in. Press gently to seal.
- If needed, you can toast the seam side down in a skillet to help seal it even more.
With a bit of practice, you’ll become a burrito-rolling pro in no time!
Easy Beefy Melt Burrito
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup cooked Mexican or Spanish rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce (or processed cheese, melted)
- 1 cup corn chips or Fritos (optional for crunch)
- 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo (optional)
- Cooking oil (1 tbsp)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Beefy Melt Burrito takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from the start to the delicious finish. Quick and simple for a satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tablespoon of cooking oil, swirling it around to coat the skillet. When the oil is hot, dump in the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks until it’s fully browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
2. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is browned, you may want to drain any excess fat. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. If you’re using a seasoning packet, add the amount of water it calls for (usually about 1/4 cup) and stir everything together. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the beef is nicely coated and flavorful. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
While the beef is simmering, warm the tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will make them soft and easy to roll.
4. Assemble the Burrito:
Grab a warm tortilla and lay it flat on a plate. Spread a spoonful of sour cream in the center, followed by a big scoop of the seasoned beef. Layer on the cooked Mexican rice, then top it off with warm nacho cheese sauce and shredded cheddar cheese. If you want a bit of extra crunch, sprinkle on the corn chips or Fritos, and don’t forget to add some salsa or pico de gallo if you like!
5. Roll It Up:
Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. Ensure those fillings are snug inside so they don’t escape!
6. Get It Melty:
To give your burrito that extra melted cheese effect, place it seam side down on the same hot skillet you used for the beef. Let it cook for about 2 minutes on each side, pressing it down gently to get that crispy texture and help the cheese melt.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Once it’s all golden and melty, slice the burrito in half and serve it right away! You can pair it with additional sour cream or salsa on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy creation!
Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings—make it your own! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Beefy Melt Burrito
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative that will work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to season it well to keep the flavor strong!
How Can I Make This Burrito Vegetarian?
Simply swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. You can also add extra cheese and rice to fill it out!
Can I Prepare the Burrito Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the beef mixture and cook the rice a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, just warm them up and assemble your burritos!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burritos?
Wrap any leftover burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
