Taco Bell 5 Layer Burrito Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb ground beef (~$2.40, or $5.60 for 1 lb if you want to make more burritos)
- 1 packet Taco Bell seasoning mix (~$0.80, or your favorite taco seasoning blend)
- 1 can refried beans (~$1.50)
- Nacho cheese sauce (~$2.60, or homemade cheese sauce)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (~$1.60)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese blend (~$1.98 for generic, any taco blend works)
- 8 large flour tortillas (~$1.62 for a pack)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef:
- In a skillet, cook the 1/2 lb of ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain any excess fat, then add the Taco Bell seasoning mix and follow the directions on the seasoning packet (usually involves adding water and letting the mixture simmer until thickened).
- Stir occasionally and set aside once ready.
2. Warm the refried beans:
- In a small saucepan, heat the can of refried beans over medium-low heat until warm. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Tip: If the beans seem too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to loosen them up.
3. Warm the nacho cheese sauce:
- Heat the nacho cheese sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm and easy to spread.
- Tip: You can use store-bought nacho cheese, or melt cheddar cheese with some milk and butter for a homemade version.
4. Prepare your tortillas:
- Warm the 8 large flour tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet for about 10-15 seconds each. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll.
5. Layering the burrito:
- Spread a layer of refried beans: Take one tortilla and spread a thin layer of warm refried beans onto the tortilla.
- Top with a tortilla: Add a second tortilla on top of the beans to create the « 5-layer » effect.
- Spread nacho cheese: Spread a generous layer of nacho cheese on top of the second tortilla.
- Add seasoned beef: Spoon a portion of the seasoned ground beef on top of the cheese layer.
- Top with sour cream: Add a dollop of sour cream over the beef and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese: Add a handful of shredded cheese over the sour cream layer.
6. Roll the burrito:
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly from one end to the other to form the burrito.
7. Repeat:
- Continue the process with the remaining tortillas and ingredients to make up to 8 burritos.
8. Optional step — Warm them up:
- If desired, place the rolled burritos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to lightly toast them, or pop them in a sandwich press for a slightly crispy exterior.
Cost Breakdown:
- Total cost of ingredients: Approximately $10.50 (or slightly more if you use a full pound of beef).
- Cost per burrito: Around $1.30 if you make 8 burritos, or even cheaper if you stretch the ingredients.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or lettuce for extra texture and flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese or tortillas to switch things up.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Taco Bell-style 5 Layer Burritos at a fraction of the cost!