Table of Contents
If you’re a fan of Mexican-inspired fast food, you’ve probably come across the Beefy Melt Burrito at Taco Bell. This tasty creation combines seasoned beef, creamy nacho cheese, and a medley of flavorful ingredients, making it a fan favorite. But what exactly makes it so special? And why do some people swear it’s the best burrito Taco Bell has ever made?
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Beefy Melt Burrito from its mouthwatering ingredients and flavor profile to its history, nutritional value, and even how to make it at home. We’ll also compare it with the Beefy Crunch Burrito and answer some of the most common questions people have about this beloved menu item.
Get ready to dive into the cheesy, beefy goodness that is the Beefy Melt Burrito!
Introduction to the Beefy Melt Burrito
What is the Beefy Melt Burrito?
The Beefy Melt Burrito is one of Taco Bell’s most popular and flavorful burritos. It features seasoned beef, seasoned rice, a blend of three cheeses, reduced-fat sour cream, nacho cheese sauce, and crispy fiesta strips all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. First introduced as part of Taco Bell’s value menu, this burrito quickly gained a loyal following thanks to its rich taste and perfect balance of textures.
But what sets it apart from other Taco Bell burritos? It’s the combination of creamy nacho cheese sauce and the crunchy fiesta strips that gives it that signature taste and texture. Unlike the Beefy Crunch Burrito, which relies heavily on Fritos for crunch, the Beefy Melt Burrito offers a more balanced, cheesy bite.
Why is it Popular?
The Beefy Melt Burrito has become a fan favorite for a few key reasons:
- Affordability – It’s part of Taco Bell’s Cravings Menu, making it a budget-friendly option without sacrificing flavor.
- Flavor Explosion – The blend of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and crunchy fiesta strips creates a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
- Portion Size – It’s filling enough to serve as a full meal but not so heavy that it leaves you feeling sluggish.
Taco Bell’s ability to mix bold flavors with affordable pricing is part of what makes the Beefy Melt Burrito such a hit. Whether you’re craving something cheesy, beefy, or crunchy, this burrito delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients and Flavor Profile
Seasoned Beef and Its Role
At the heart of the Beefy Melt Burrito is Taco Bell’s signature seasoned beef. This isn’t just any ground beef it’s cooked with a carefully balanced blend of spices, including chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder. The seasoned beef provides a savory, slightly spicy base that complements the creamy and crunchy elements of the burrito.
What makes Taco Bell’s seasoned beef so addictive? It’s the mix of fat and spice that gives it a rich, deep flavor. Combined with the other ingredients, it creates a perfect balance of texture and taste. No wonder fans keep coming back for more!
Cheese Blend and Nacho Cheese Sauce
Cheese lovers, rejoice! The Beefy Melt Burrito doesn’t skimp on the cheese. It includes a three-cheese blend cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack which melts perfectly into the beef and rice. On top of that, you get a generous helping of nacho cheese sauce.
The creamy, salty flavor of the nacho cheese sauce ties the whole burrito together. When paired with the seasoned beef, the result is a rich, cheesy bite that’s impossible to resist. The sauce also adds moisture, ensuring the burrito isn’t too dry.
Seasoned Rice and Fiesta Strips
Seasoned rice is another key player in the Beefy Melt Burrito. Cooked with a mix of Mexican-inspired spices, the rice adds a mild, savory flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. It also helps to bulk up the burrito, making it more filling.
Then there are the fiesta strips crunchy red tortilla strips that add a satisfying crunch. Their slightly salty flavor contrasts beautifully with the soft rice and gooey cheese, giving each bite a layered texture that keeps things interesting.
Sour Cream and Additional Flavors
Finally, the Beefy Melt Burrito includes a dollop of reduced-fat sour cream. The tangy creaminess cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef, creating a balanced flavor profile. You also get hints of tomato and mild pepper in the seasoning, which gives the burrito a subtle kick without being overpowering.
History and Evolution of the Beefy Melt Burrito
Origins at Taco Bell
The Beefy Melt Burrito made its debut as part of Taco Bell’s value menu, quickly becoming a hit among fans looking for a filling, budget-friendly meal. Taco Bell has a long history of experimenting with beef and cheese combinations, but this burrito took things to another level by adding the crunchy fiesta strips.
Initially marketed as a limited-time item, the Beefy Melt Burrito proved so popular that Taco Bell brought it back multiple times due to customer demand. It eventually earned a permanent spot on the Cravings Menu.
Major Changes Over the Years
While the core ingredients have remained the same, Taco Bell has made subtle tweaks to the Beefy Melt Burrito over the years. At one point, they experimented with different cheese blends and even considered adding jalapeños for extra spice. However, the classic combo of seasoned beef, nacho cheese, and fiesta strips has remained the fan favorite.
Interestingly, the Beefy Crunch Burrito has often been compared to the Beefy Melt Burrito. While both feature seasoned beef and cheese, the Beefy Crunch Burrito relies on Fritos for crunch, whereas the Beefy Melt Burrito uses the more subtle fiesta strips.
How the Recipe Has Evolved
The biggest evolution came when Taco Bell simplified the recipe to improve consistency. They fine-tuned the seasoning mix for the beef and increased the portion of nacho cheese sauce to make the burrito even creamier.
Today, the Beefy Melt Burrito remains a staple on Taco Bell’s menu, appealing to both long-time fans and new customers alike. Its perfect balance of flavor, texture, and value ensures that it will stay a crowd-pleaser for years to come.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
Calorie Count and Macros
If you’re wondering whether the Beefy Melt Burrito fits into your diet, it’s worth breaking down the nutrition facts. A standard Beefy Melt Burrito from Taco Bell contains around 470 calories, with approximately 20 grams of fat, 14 grams of protein, and 54 grams of carbohydrates.
While 470 calories may sound reasonable for a meal, the high fat and sodium content can add up quickly if you’re watching your intake. The nacho cheese sauce and sour cream contribute to the higher fat content, while the seasoned beef and cheese blend are the main sources of protein.
Comparing Nutritional Value to Other Burritos
Compared to other Taco Bell burritos, the Beefy Melt Burrito falls somewhere in the middle in terms of calories and fat. For example:
- The Bean Burrito has about 350 calories and 9 grams of fat.
- The Beefy 5-Layer Burrito packs 490 calories and 18 grams of fat.
- The Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito comes in at 420 calories with 13 grams of fat.
Although the Beefy Melt Burrito isn’t the healthiest option on the menu, it’s not the worst either. Its balance of protein, carbs, and fat makes it a satisfying option when you need a quick, filling meal.
Health-Conscious Customizations
If you want to make the Beefy Melt Burrito a bit healthier, Taco Bell offers several customization options:
- Light cheese – Cutting back on the cheese can save you about 50 calories and reduce the fat content.
- Extra veggies – Adding tomatoes, lettuce, or onions boosts fiber and vitamins without adding significant calories.
- Swap out the sour cream – Removing the sour cream reduces fat and calorie content.
- Skip the nacho cheese sauce – This saves approximately 70 calories and cuts down on saturated fat.
Taco Bell’s app allows you to customize your order easily, so you can adjust the Beefy Melt Burrito to fit your dietary needs.
How to Make a Beefy Melt Burrito at Home
Ingredients You’ll Need
Recreating the Beefy Melt Burrito at home is surprisingly simple. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1 cup of seasoned rice (cook with a mix of chicken broth, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder)
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup of nacho cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup of sour cream (optional)
- 1/2 cup of fiesta strips (crushed tortilla chips can work as a substitute)
- 4 large flour tortillas
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Cook the ground beef – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and about 1/4 cup of water. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Prepare the seasoned rice – Cook the rice according to package instructions. Add cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and a dash of salt for extra flavor.
- Warm the tortillas – Heat the tortillas in a pan or microwave until they’re soft and flexible.
- Assemble the burrito – Lay out a tortilla. Spread about 1/4 cup of seasoned rice in the center. Add a scoop of beef, followed by shredded cheese, nacho cheese sauce, and sour cream (if using). Top with fiesta strips.
- Fold and wrap – Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom.
- Heat it up – For extra crispiness, grill the burrito on a skillet for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve and enjoy – Slice the burrito in half and serve it with your favorite hot sauce or salsa.
Tips for Enhancing the Flavor
- Use fresh tortillas – Fresh, soft tortillas make a big difference in the overall texture.
- Mix up the cheese – Try adding pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor twist.
- Add some spice – Toss in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give the burrito some heat.
Want More Tasty Recipes?
If you’re craving more delicious burrito ideas, check out our recipe for a crispy potato taco it pairs perfectly with the Beefy Melt Burrito!
Customer Reviews and Public Reception
Positive Feedback
The Beefy Melt Burrito has earned a loyal following, and for good reason. Fans rave about its balanced mix of flavors the seasoned beef, gooey nacho cheese, and crispy fiesta strips create a combination that’s hard to beat. Many customers appreciate that it’s filling without being too heavy, making it a great grab-and-go meal.
One customer review on Taco Bell’s website highlighted the burrito’s consistency:
“The Beefy Melt Burrito hits the spot every time! The crunch from the fiesta strips combined with the creamy cheese makes it one of my favorites.”
Fans on social media have also shared their love for the Beefy Melt Burrito, with many calling it a “comfort food classic.” It’s become a go-to option for those looking for a satisfying yet affordable meal.
Common Complaints
Despite its popularity, the Beefy Melt Burrito isn’t perfect in everyone’s eyes. Some customers have mentioned that the burrito can sometimes be inconsistent in terms of portion size and ingredient distribution. A few have noted that the nacho cheese sauce can overwhelm the other flavors if too much is used.
Another common complaint involves the fiesta strips while they add a satisfying crunch, they can sometimes become soggy if the burrito sits too long before eating. This isn’t a dealbreaker for most fans, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer a crispier texture.
On Reddit, one user commented:
“Love the taste, but I wish Taco Bell would be more consistent with the amount of cheese and beef. Sometimes you get a perfect burrito, other times it’s more rice than anything else.”
Overall, the Beefy Melt Burrito maintains a strong reputation despite these minor issues. Its combination of bold flavors and textures keeps customers coming back for more.
Availability and Variations
Is the Beefy Melt Burrito Still Available?
Yes, the Beefy Melt Burrito is currently available at most Taco Bell locations across the U.S. It’s part of Taco Bell’s Cravings Menu, which means it’s priced competitively to appeal to budget-conscious customers.
However, availability can vary by region. Some Taco Bell locations may offer limited-time variations of the burrito or slightly tweak the recipe based on local preferences. For example, some locations add extra jalapeños or swap the fiesta strips for Fritos to create a spicier version.
Taco Bell has occasionally removed the Beefy Melt Burrito from the menu, only to bring it back due to popular demand. This back-and-forth has created a bit of a cult following among Taco Bell fans who eagerly await its return whenever it’s temporarily discontinued.
Regional Differences
Taco Bell has been known to test out different variations of the Beefy Melt Burrito in select markets. In some areas, you can find a “Deluxe” version that includes guacamole and pico de gallo. Other regions have experimented with adding a spicy chipotle sauce to give the burrito an extra kick.
Internationally, Taco Bell locations in Canada and the UK offer slightly different versions of the Beefy Melt Burrito due to differences in ingredient availability. In the UK, for instance, the burrito is often served with a tangy yogurt-based sauce instead of sour cream.
Limited-Time Offers and Specials
Taco Bell frequently features the Beefy Melt Burrito as part of limited-time promotions. It’s been included in “$5 Box” deals, which combine the burrito with a drink, a side of nachos, and a dessert.
For those looking to recreate the burrito at home or explore similar recipes, websites like AllRecipes offer a wide range of burrito-making tips and Mexican-inspired recipes. You might even discover a new favorite!
FAQs About the Beefy Melt Burrito
What is in a Beefy Melt Burrito?
The Beefy Melt Burrito is packed with a flavorful mix of seasoned beef, seasoned rice, a three-cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack), nacho cheese sauce, sour cream, and crunchy fiesta strips all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla.
The key to its taste lies in the balance of textures and flavors. The seasoned beef provides a savory, slightly spicy kick, while the nacho cheese sauce and sour cream add creamy richness. The fiesta strips deliver a satisfying crunch, giving the burrito that signature Taco Bell texture.
Is the Beefy Melt Burrito still available?
Yes, the Beefy Melt Burrito is currently available at most Taco Bell locations. However, availability can vary depending on the region and time of year. Taco Bell occasionally features the burrito as part of promotional deals, so you might even find it in a value box combo.
If your local Taco Bell isn’t offering the Beefy Melt Burrito, you can always try making it at home. Websites like Food.com have plenty of burrito recipes that you can customize to get that Taco Bell taste.
What happened to the Beefy Melt Burrito at Taco Bell?
Taco Bell has had an on-again, off-again relationship with the Beefy Melt Burrito. It was originally introduced as a limited-time item, but due to strong customer demand, it became a regular menu option.
That said, Taco Bell occasionally rotates menu items to make room for new offerings. The Beefy Melt Burrito has been removed from the menu in the past, only to return after fans voiced their frustration on social media. Its popularity has ensured that it remains a fan favorite whenever it makes a comeback.
What is the new name for the Beefy Melt Burrito?
There’s no official new name for the Beefy Melt Burrito, but Taco Bell has experimented with different variations. In some regions, it’s been sold as the “Cheesy Beefy Melt” or the “Fiesta Beef Burrito.” Despite these changes, the core ingredients have remained the same seasoned beef, cheese, rice, and fiesta strips.
Taco Bell’s approach to naming reflects its strategy of creating fresh excitement around existing menu items. Even if the name changes, the loyal fanbase ensures that the Beefy Melt Burrito remains a go-to order for many Taco Bell lovers.
Beefy Melt Burrito vs. Beefy Crunch Burrito
Key Differences
While the Beefy Melt Burrito and the Beefy Crunch Burrito sound similar, they offer different flavor experiences. The biggest difference lies in the crunch factor.
- The Beefy Melt Burrito uses fiesta strips red tortilla strips that have a mild saltiness and a lighter crunch.
- The Beefy Crunch Burrito features Fritos corn chips with a stronger, more noticeable crunch and a slightly toasty flavor.
Additionally, the Beefy Crunch Burrito tends to have a bit more spice, thanks to the Fritos’ seasoning. The Beefy Melt Burrito, on the other hand, leans toward a creamier taste because of the nacho cheese and sour cream.
Flavor and Texture Comparison
The Beefy Melt Burrito delivers a smooth and creamy texture with a balanced blend of cheese, beef, and rice. The fiesta strips provide a satisfying crunch without overwhelming the softer elements.
The Beefy Crunch Burrito, by contrast, offers a bolder, more aggressive crunch due to the Fritos. The seasoning on the Fritos also gives it a stronger salty and spicy kick. If you prefer a milder, cheesier flavor, the Beefy Melt Burrito is your best bet. If you’re craving something more intense and crunchy, the Beefy Crunch Burrito might win you over.
Customer Preferences
Opinions are split among Taco Bell fans. Some prefer the balanced, creamy taste of the Beefy Melt Burrito, while others crave the stronger crunch and saltiness of the Beefy Crunch Burrito.
Social media polls often show mixed results, but the Beefy Melt Burrito tends to attract those who prefer a more classic burrito experience. The combination of cheese, beef, and a light crunch from the fiesta strips makes it appealing to a broader audience.
Ultimately, both burritos have their strengths, and Taco Bell fans are lucky to have options that satisfy different cravings. If you can’t decide which one to try, why not order both and do your own taste test?
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Beefy Melt Burrito has proven itself to be more than just a fast-food item it’s a fan-favorite that strikes the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and value. Its combination of seasoned beef, gooey cheese, crunchy fiesta strips, and creamy sour cream delivers a satisfying bite every time.
Taco Bell’s ability to blend rich flavors with a satisfying crunch is what makes the Beefy Melt Burrito stand out. Whether you prefer it over the Beefy Crunch Burrito or just enjoy it as part of your Taco Bell rotation, it’s clear that this burrito has earned its spot on the menu.
While Taco Bell may tweak the recipe or rotate it off the menu from time to time, the Beefy Melt Burrito has built a loyal fanbase that ensures it will always find its way back. Its balance of taste and texture makes it a go-to option for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful meal.
So, the next time you’re at Taco Bell, don’t hesitate to give the Beefy Melt Burrito a try. If it’s not available, consider making your own at home you might even discover a way to make it taste better than the original!
Beefy Melt Burrito
Equipment
- Skillet
- Microwave
Ingredients
Burrito Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup seasoned rice Cook with chicken broth, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella
- 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce Store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup sour cream Optional
- 1/2 cup fiesta strips Crushed tortilla chips can work as a substitute
- 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and about 1/4 cup of water. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions. Add cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and a dash of salt for extra flavor.
- Heat the tortillas in a pan or microwave until they’re soft and flexible.
- Lay out a tortilla. Spread about 1/4 cup of seasoned rice in the center. Add a scoop of beef, followed by shredded cheese, nacho cheese sauce, and sour cream (if using). Top with fiesta strips.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom.
- Grill the burrito on a skillet for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Slice the burrito in half and serve it with your favorite hot sauce or salsa.