Taco Bell Beefy Melt Burrito (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Filling

01 - 1 pound lean ground beef
02 - 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
03 - ¼ cup water or beef broth
04 - 1 cup refried beans (optional)
05 - 2 cups cooked Mexican rice (or instant Mexican rice)

→ For Assembly

06 - 4 burrito-sized flour tortillas
07 - 2 cups Fritos corn chips (or Doritos)
08 - 1 cup cheese dip, warmed (like Tostitos)
09 - 1 cup Mexican cheese blend, shredded
10 - ½ cup sour cream
11 - Salsa for serving (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, until no longer pink (about 7-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the taco seasoning and water or beef broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the seasoning coats the meat.
02 - If using refried beans, stir them into the seasoned beef mixture until well combined. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash more water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Reduce heat to low to keep warm while preparing other ingredients.
03 - Cook the instant Mexican rice according to package directions, or warm leftover rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Place the flour tortillas between slightly damp paper towels and microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm and pliable.
04 - Lay a warm tortilla flat on a work surface. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the meat mixture onto the center of the tortilla in a line, leaving about 2 inches of space on all sides. Top with about 3 tablespoons of the Mexican rice.
05 - Sprinkle a handful (about ¼ cup) of Fritos or Doritos over the rice. Drizzle with 2-3 tablespoons of warmed cheese dip. Add a generous pinch of shredded Mexican cheese blend and a dollop of sour cream.
06 - To fold the burrito, first fold in the sides toward the center. Then, while holding the sides in, fold the bottom edge up and over the filling. Continue rolling tightly until you reach the top edge. Place seam-side down. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
07 - For an extra-authentic touch, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and crispy. This step is optional but adds a nice texture contrast.
08 - Serve the burritos immediately while hot, with salsa on the side for dipping if desired. Cut in half diagonally for easier eating.

# Notes:

01 - These burritos are very customizable - try adding diced tomatoes, lettuce, or jalapeños for additional flavor and texture.
02 - For spicier burritos, use Nacho Cheese Doritos instead of Fritos, or add hot sauce to the beef mixture.
03 - To make preparation even quicker, cook a large batch of seasoned beef and rice ahead of time and refrigerate for quick assembly on busy weeknights.
04 - For an authentic Taco Bell experience, wrap the finished burritos in foil or parchment paper for easier handling while eating.