Stuffed Taco Bell Beef Burrito: A Delicious Copycat Recipe

Stuffed Taco Bell Beef Burrito: Craving that iconic Taco Bell flavor but want to enjoy it in an even bigger, bolder way? Then you’ve come to the right place! Forget waiting in line; we’re bringing the drive-thru experience straight to your kitchen with a homemade version that’s guaranteed to satisfy even the most intense cravings.

The humble burrito, a staple of Mexican cuisine, has a rich history rooted in practicality and deliciousness. Originally a simple way for field workers to transport their meals, the burrito has evolved into a globally beloved dish, adapted and reimagined in countless ways. Taco Bell’s interpretation, with its unique blend of seasoned beef, cheese, and signature sauces, has become a cultural phenomenon, a guilty pleasure for millions.

What’s not to love? The combination of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and tangy sauces, all wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla, is simply irresistible. And now, imagine all that goodness, amplified and stuffed to the brim! This Stuffed Taco Bell Beef Burrito recipe takes everything you adore about the original and elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun weekend gathering, or anytime you need a comforting and satisfying meal. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will have you saying, “Yo quiero!”

Ingredients:

• For the Seasoned Ground Beef:
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 packet Taco Bell Taco Seasoning (or homemade equivalent – see notes below)
• ¾ cup water
• For the Seasoned Rice:
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• For the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce:
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeño juice
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickled jalapeños
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• For the Fiesta Strips:
• 6 corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Salt, to taste
• For Assembly:
• 6 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)

Preparing the Seasoned Ground Beef:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. I find using a paper towel to soak up the grease works best.
2. Add Seasoning and Water: Stir in the Taco Bell Taco Seasoning packet and water. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer and Thicken: Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the beef is nicely seasoned and slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You want it to be saucy, but not watery.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the beef and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt or a little more chili powder if you like it spicier.

Cooking the Seasoned Rice:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, chicken broth, butter, salt, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
2. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Simmer and Cook: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time!
4. Fluff and Rest: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become perfectly fluffy. Fluff with a fork before using.

Making the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

1. Make a Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Be careful not to burn the roux, or it will taste bitter.
2. Whisk in Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents lumps from forming.
3. Simmer and Thicken: Continue to whisk constantly until the sauce begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Season and Adjust: Stir in the salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, continue to simmer it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.

Preparing the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, pickled jalapeño juice, finely chopped pickled jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Mix Well: Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust to Taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want it spicier, add more chopped jalapeños or a pinch more cayenne pepper. If you want it tangier, add a little more jalapeño juice.
4. Chill (Optional): For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Making the Fiesta Strips:

1. Cut the Tortillas: Stack the corn tortillas and cut them into thin strips, about ¼ inch wide.
2. Heat the Oil: Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a medium saucepan or deep fryer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or test the oil by dropping in a single tortilla strip – it should sizzle immediately.
3. Fry the Strips: Carefully add the tortilla strips to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain and Season: Remove the fried tortilla strips with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with salt.
5. Cool and Store: Let the fiesta strips cool completely before using. Store any leftover strips in an airtight container at room temperature.

Assembling the Stuffed Burrito:

1. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds each, or in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll.
2. Layer the Ingredients: On each tortilla, spread a generous amount of nacho cheese sauce in the center. Top with a layer of seasoned ground beef, followed by a layer of seasoned rice.
3. Add the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce: Drizzle a generous amount of creamy jalapeño sauce over the rice. Don’t be shy! This is what gives it that signature Taco Bell flavor.
4. Top with Fiesta Strips: Sprinkle a handful of fiesta strips over the creamy jalapeño sauce.
5. Fold the Burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold up the bottom and roll tightly to form a burrito. Make sure to tuck in the ingredients as you roll to keep everything secure.
6. Seal and Serve: If desired, you can seal the burrito by placing it seam-side down in a hot skillet for a minute or two until lightly browned. This will help keep it from unraveling.
7. Optional Toppings: Top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired, and serve immediately. I sometimes like to add a dollop of sour cream on top too!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Stuffed Taco Bell Beef Burrito recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a nostalgic trip back to those late-night Taco Bell runs, but elevated with homemade goodness and customizable to your exact cravings. I truly believe this is a must-try for any burrito lover, especially if you’re looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to put together.

Why is it a must-try? Because it perfectly captures the essence of a Taco Bell beef burrito, but with the added benefit of fresh ingredients and the ability to tailor it to your own preferences. Forget the drive-thru lines and the mystery meat; with this recipe, you control the quality and the quantity. You can adjust the spice level, add your favorite toppings, and even experiment with different types of cheese. Plus, let’s be honest, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating your own version of a beloved fast-food classic.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some grilled chicken or steak for an extra protein boost. Want to kick up the heat? Throw in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with seasoned black beans or lentils. You can even experiment with different types of tortillas, like whole wheat or spinach, to add a nutritional twist.

Serving suggestions? This Stuffed Taco Bell Beef Burrito is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole, a refreshing Mexican salad, or even just a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro. For a truly authentic Taco Bell experience, serve it with a Baja Blast (or your favorite soda!). And if you’re feeling extra fancy, you can even grill the burrito for a few minutes to give it a crispy, golden-brown exterior.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing party snack, or even a satisfying lunch to take on the go. The possibilities are endless!

Now, it’s your turn! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try. Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients; it’s all about layering flavors and creating a delicious, satisfying burrito that you can be proud of. And most importantly, have fun with it! Experiment with different toppings, spices, and variations to create your own signature Stuffed Taco Bell Beef Burrito.

Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite toppings? Did it bring back any nostalgic memories? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I’m always eager to see how you’ve put your own spin on my recipes. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to create a burrito masterpiece! I can’t wait to hear what you think! Happy cooking!

---