Easy Copycat Taco Bell Bean Burrito Recipe for Beginners

Who doesn’t love the simple, comforting taste of a Taco Bell bean burrito? That warm, soft tortilla filled with creamy refried beans, melty cheese, a bit of crunchy onion, and a touch of tangy taco sauce—it’s a nostalgic favorite. But what if I told you that you could recreate this fast-food classic at home with just five simple ingredients and in only ten minutes?

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Many people turn to fast food for convenience, but making this burrito yourself is just as quick and even more satisfying. Plus, it allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the recipe to fit your tastes and dietary preferences. If you love Taco Bell but prefer home-cooked meals, this recipe is perfect for you.

This homemade bean burrito is great for beginners because it requires minimal cooking, uses basic ingredients, and delivers delicious results with very little effort. You won’t need any fancy kitchen equipment, and you can make adjustments to suit your flavor preferences. Whether you want a quick lunch, a simple dinner, or an easy meal prep option, this recipe is an excellent choice.

If you prefer adding more protein, this recipe can easily be modified by including seasoned chicken or ground beef, making it even more filling. The best part is that you can customize it to match your cravings without losing the essence of the classic Taco Bell burrito.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious copycat burrito at home.

Ingredients and Preparation

For this recipe, you only need five essential ingredients, all of which are easily available at most grocery stores.

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup refried beans – Canned refried beans work perfectly, but you can also mash your own cooked beans for a homemade touch.
• 4 heaping tablespoons finely shredded cheese – A bagged Mexican-style or fiesta cheese blend is ideal, but cheddar or Monterey Jack also work well.
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped yellow or white onion – Fresh onions add a bit of crunch and a mild sharpness to balance the creamy filling.
• 4 tablespoons taco sauce – Taco Bell’s mild sauce is a great option, but any taco sauce or even a mild salsa can be used.
• 2 burrito-sized flour tortillas – Soft, large tortillas that are pliable enough for folding without breaking.

Optional Additions:

If you want to add protein, here are some easy substitutions for a heartier burrito:

• Shredded chicken – Cook and shred chicken breast, then mix it with taco seasoning for extra flavor.
• Ground beef – Cook ground beef with seasoning and add a few spoonfuls to the burrito for a meaty version.
• Black beans – For a slightly different texture, black beans can be used instead of refried beans.

These substitutions allow you to customize the burrito while keeping the preparation just as easy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this burrito is incredibly simple and takes only a few minutes. The key is to work efficiently so that everything stays warm and the cheese melts properly.

Step 1: Heat the Refried Beans

1. Place the refried beans in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add a couple of tablespoons of water to loosen them up, as canned refried beans are often thick. Stir well to create a smoother consistency.
3. Cook until the beans are hot, then remove from heat and cover with a lid to keep them warm.

Beginner Tip: The amount of water needed will depend on the brand of beans you use. Start with a small amount and add more if necessary. You want the beans to be spreadable but not too runny.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

1. Heat a large, dry pan over medium heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the pan and heat for about 20 seconds on each side, just until warm and flexible.
3. Remove from the pan and set aside. Repeat with the second tortilla.

Beginner Tip: You don’t need to use oil or cooking spray. Just a few seconds in a warm pan will make the tortilla soft and easy to fold.

Step 3: Assemble the Burrito

1. Place one warm tortilla on a flat surface.
2. Spread about 1/3 cup of the heated refried beans in the center of the tortilla.
3. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top of the beans.
4. Add about one tablespoon of chopped onion.
5. Drizzle one to two tablespoons of taco sauce over the filling.

Step 4: Fold and Roll the Burrito

1. Fold in the sides of the tortilla to keep the filling secure.
2. Starting from the bottom, roll the tortilla tightly over the filling until it is completely wrapped.
3. If needed, place the burrito seam-side down in the pan for a few seconds to help seal it.

Beginner Tip: If you want extra melty cheese, assemble the burrito quickly while everything is still hot. Letting it sit for a minute before eating can also help the cheese soften.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Even though this recipe is simple, here are a few tips to ensure the best results:

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them:

• If the beans are too thick and hard to spread… Add a little more water while heating them to make them smoother.
• If the tortilla tears when rolling… Make sure it is warm and pliable before assembling the burrito.
• If the cheese doesn’t melt enough… Wrap the burrito in foil and let it sit for a few minutes, or place it in a warm oven for a few minutes.

Helpful Kitchen Tips:

• Prepping efficiently: Chop the onions and have all ingredients ready before heating the tortillas. This will help with quick assembly.
• Substituting tools: If you don’t have a pan to warm the tortillas, you can use a microwave. Wrap the tortilla in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15 seconds.

Serving Suggestions

This bean burrito is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal with some simple additions.

Side Dish Ideas:

• Spanish rice: A classic pairing that makes the meal more filling.
• Grilled vegetables: Adds extra nutrients and a fresh element.
• Tortilla chips and guacamole: A simple, crunchy side that complements the burrito perfectly.

Storage and Leftovers:

If you have leftover burritos, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a warm pan or microwave until heated through.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare a batch of burritos, wrap them individually, and freeze them for a quick meal option. To reheat from frozen, microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Conclusion: Try This Easy Burrito and Share Your Experience

This copycat Taco Bell bean burrito recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create a delicious, satisfying meal. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, meal prepping, or just craving the classic fast-food taste at home, this recipe is an excellent choice for beginners.

The beauty of this burrito is in its versatility. You can enjoy it as-is, add your favorite proteins, or experiment with different sauces and toppings. Once you make it a couple of times, you’ll realize how easy it is to customize.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out. Did you stick to the classic version, or did you add your own twist? Share your experience and tips in the comments. Happy cooking!