This Taco Bell Beefy Crunch Burrito has become more than just a menu item; it’s a cult classic. I’m thrilled to share a step-by-step guide to making your own Beefy Crunch Burrito. So, if you’re like me, always craving that explosion of textures and flavors but not always near a Taco Bell, or perhaps you just enjoy the challenge of crafting fast-food favorites at home, you’re in for a treat.
Table of Contents
How to make Taco Bell Beefy Crunch Burrito
The Taco Bell Beefy Crunch Burrito is a fan-favorite menu item that features seasoned beef, Flamin’ Hot Fritos, seasoned rice, warm nacho cheese sauce, and reduced-fat sour cream, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef: This will form the base of your filling. If you prefer a lighter option, you can opt for lean beef.
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning: This gives the beef that signature Taco Bell flavor. You can use the store-bought packets or make your mix.
- 1 cup Mexican or long-grain rice: Cooked according to package instructions to ensure fluffiness.
- 1 cup water: For cooking the rice.
- 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce: You can find this at most grocery stores or make your own using melted cheese and milk.
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream: To add creaminess to the burrito.
- 1 bag of Flamin’ Hot Fritos: This is the crunch factor of the burrito. If you can’t find Flamin’ Hot Fritos, any hot cheese-flavored corn chips will do in a pinch.
- 4 large flour tortillas: To wrap up all the delicious ingredients. Make sure they’re large enough to hold everything comfortably.
Instructions:
- Prepare the beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and 3/4 cup of water, simmer until the water is absorbed and the beef is well-seasoned. Set aside.
- Prepare the rice: Cook the rice with 1 cup water according to the package instructions until tender. Once it’s done, consider mixing in some cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to add another layer of flavor.
- Warm the tortillas: This will make them more pliable and less likely to tear when you roll the burritos. Heat each tortilla for about 10-20 seconds per side in a dry skillet or on an open flame if you have a gas stove.
- Assemble the burritos: Lay out a warm tortilla and spread a scoop of nacho cheese sauce in the center. Next, add a layer of cooked rice. Add the seasoned beef to the rice, a dollop of sour cream, and a generous handful of Flamin’ Hot Fritos.
- Roll up the burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the fillings, then roll from the bottom up, tucking everything in tightly. Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas.
- Toast the burritos: To get that slight outer crispness, place the wrapped burritos seam-side down on a hot skillet for a couple of minutes on each side. This step is optional but adds a nice texture.
- Serve: Cut the burrito in half to see the beautiful layers of your creation, and enjoy it hot!
Tips:
- Get the right beef texture: To mimic Taco Bell’s beef, crumble the meat finely as it cooks. You can use a potato masher or fork to help break up the pieces.
- Seasoning: To make your taco seasoning, mix together chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the quantities to your taste.
- Cheese sauce consistency: If your nacho cheese sauce is too thick, thin it with a little milk or water until it is drizzleable.
- Wrap tightly: A well-rolled burrito shouldn’t spill its contents when you eat it. Tuck in the edges and roll it tightly to ensure it holds together.
- Customize: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients. For an added kick, you might want to include beans, diced tomatoes, lettuce, or even jalapeños.
What to serve with
Serving up a delicious homemade Taco Bell Beefy Crunch Burrito opens up a world of possibilities for side dishes that can turn a simple meal into a feast. When figuring out what to serve with your burrito, consider balance in flavors, textures, and the overall heaviness of the meal.
1. Mexican Rice: While the burrito itself contains rice, a side of Mexican rice can complement the other flavors. This version is usually tomato-based, adding a lovely, acidic brightness that pairs well with the burrito’s richness. Add some peas and carrots for extra texture and a pop of color.
2. Refried Beans: A staple in Mexican cuisine, refried beans are creamy and hearty, perfect for balancing the spiciness of the Taco Bell Beefy Crunch Burrito. To make them even more indulgent, top them with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob can add a sweet, charred contrast to your meal. Brush it with lime juice and sprinkle with chili powder, salt, and cotija cheese for a classic Mexican street corn flavor.
4. Guacamole: This creamy, rich dip made from avocados offers a cool contrast to the heat of the Taco Bell Beefy Crunch Burrito. Add in onions, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to taste. Serve it on the side or add a dollop to your burrito for extra richness.
5. Chips and Salsa: No Mexican meal seems complete without chips and salsa. Opt for a fresh pico de gallo or a salsa verde that can bring refreshing and tangy flavors to your palate. The crunch of the chips also complements the soft textures of the other dishes.
6. Cilantro Lime Slaw: Consider a slaw that uses lime juice and cilantro dressing rather than a heavy mayonnaise base for a lighter side. This can add a crunchy, fresh element that perfectly cuts through the burrito’s heaviness.
7. Pickled Vegetables: Pickling vegetables like carrots, onions, and jalapeños in a mix of vinegar, sugar, and salt can create a tangy treat that cuts through the fat and enriches every bit of the burrito with its sharp flavor profile.
8. Queso Dip: A warm queso dip can be an excellent addition if you fancy more cheese. It’s great for drizzling over your burrito or simply as a dip for chips.
9. Beverages: Consider classic beverages like horchata (a sweet rice milk beverage), cold beer, or freshly squeezed lime margaritas to wash down your meal. For a non-alcoholic option, a pitcher of iced lemonade or tamarind water complements the flavors of your meal nicely.
10. Desserts: Finish off with a light dessert like churros, flan, or tres leches cake, which provides a sweet end to your flavorful meal.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating the iconic Taco Bell Beefy Crunch Burrito at home can be a fun and fulfilling culinary adventure. Sometimes, you might find yourself without some specific ingredients or wishing to adapt the recipe to dietary preferences or restrictions.
1. Flour Tortillas:
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free tortillas, which are available at most health food stores.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Opt for low-carb or keto tortillas made with almond flour or coconut flour.
- Homemade Option: If you’re out of tortillas and up for some DIY, make a simple dough with flour, water, salt, and oil. AA blend of rice flour and tapioca flour can work well for gluten-free tortillas for gluten-free tortillas.
2. Seasoned Ground Beef:
- Vegetarian/Vegan Alternative: Substitute ground beef with cooked lentils, mashed chickpeas, or a plant-based ground meat substitute—season as you would the beef.
- Poultry Alternative: Ground chicken or turkey can be a leaner, healthier option that still absorbs the seasonings well.
3. Rice:
- Whole Grain Alternative: Swap white rice for brown rice or even quinoa for a fiber-rich, nutritious option.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb, low-calorie substitute that mimics the texture and role of rice in the burrito.
4. Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Many recipes online for vegan nacho cheese made from cashews, nutritional yeast, and peppers exist. Pre-made vegan cheese sauces are also available in many stores.
- Homemade Option: If you can’t find nacho cheese sauce, you can make a simple homemade version with cheddar cheese, milk, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.
5. Flamin’ Hot Fritos:
- Homemade Alternative: To mimic the spicy crunch without the exact ingredient, try tossing corn chips or similar snacks with a mix of chili powder, cayenne, and lime juice before baking them just until crispy.
- Healthier Alternative: For a lower-fat option, consider air-fried or baked tortilla chips lightly seasoned with a spicy seasoning blend.
6. Sour Cream:
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Many stores carry dairy-free sour cream made from almond, soy, or coconut.
- Light Alternative: Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute that still provides creaminess and tang.
7. Lettuce:
Substitute: While iceberg lettuce is traditionally used for its crunch, any crispy green, such as romaine or even shredded cabbage, can be used for a similar texture and a nutritional boost.
8. Tomatoes:
Substitute: If fresh tomatoes are not an option, drained canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch, or you could opt for salsa or pico de gallo for additional flavor.
Final Thoughts
Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell Beefy Crunch Burrito! This rendition should satisfy your cravings until this beloved item returns to the Taco Bell menu.
More Taco Bell Recipes:
- Copycat Taco Bell Churro Birthday Cake Recipe
- Homemade Taco Bell Steak Nacho Fries Recipe
- Copycat Taco Bell Dirty Baja Blast Recipe
- Copycat Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burrito Recipe
- Homemade Taco Bell Cheese Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup Mexican or long-grain rice
- 1 cup water: For cooking the rice.
- 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream
- 1 bag of Flamin' Hot Fritos
- 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and 3/4 cup of water, simmer until the water is absorbed and the beef is well-seasoned. Set aside.
- Prepare the rice: Cook the rice with 1 cup water according to the package instructions until tender. Once it's done, consider mixing in some cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to add another layer of flavor.
- Warm the tortillas: This will make them more pliable and less likely to tear when you roll the burritos. Heat each tortilla for about 10-20 seconds per side in a dry skillet or on an open flame if you have a gas stove.
- Assemble the burritos: Lay out a warm tortilla and spread a scoop of nacho cheese sauce in the center. Next, add a layer of cooked rice. Add the seasoned beef to the rice, a dollop of sour cream, and a generous handful of Flamin' Hot Fritos.
- Roll up the burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the fillings, then roll from the bottom up, tucking everything in tightly. Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas.
- Toast the burritos: To get that slight outer crispness, place the wrapped burritos seam-side down on a hot skillet for a couple of minutes on each side. This step is optional but adds a nice texture.
- Serve: Cut the burrito in half to see the beautiful layers of your creation, and enjoy it hot!
