The Shredded Beef Burrito from Del Taco features tender, slow-cooked shredded beef wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, layered with savory beans, melted cheese, and zesty salsa, delivering a hearty and flavorful Mexican-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Slow cooker or pot
- Mixing bowls
- Cheese grater
- Spoon or ladle
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Saucepan (for beans)
- Serving spoon
- Flour tortillas
- Plate or tray
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs (680g) beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 6 large flour tortillas
When preparing your shredded beef, choose a chuck roast because its marbling melts during slow cooking, ensuring tenderness and rich flavor. Use fresh onions and garlic to enhance the natural savory taste, while the diced green chilies add a subtle kick that complements the spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Opt for low-sodium beef broth to better control the saltiness, as the canned refried beans and cheese already contain salt. Warm the flour tortillas before assembly to prevent tearing and improve pliability, which helps your burrito hold together better. Your Shredded Beef Burrito from Del Taco copycat menu will shine with these thoughtful ingredient choices, delivering an authentic, hearty Mexican-inspired meal.
Instructions
- Prepare slow cooker or pot for cooking beef.
- Chop onion and mince garlic on cutting board with knife.
- Heat vegetable oil in slow cooker insert or pot.
- Season beef chuck roast with salt and pepper.
- Sear beef on all sides in hot oil.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and beef broth.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until beef is tender and shreddable.
- Remove beef from cooker and shred with forks.
- Mix shredded beef with some cooking juices for added flavor.
- Grate cheddar cheese using cheese grater.
- Warm refried beans in saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Warm flour tortillas on a plate or tray, using microwave or dry skillet.
- Lay out warmed tortilla; spread refried beans down the center.
- Add a generous layer of shredded beef on top of beans.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over beef.
- Spoon salsa over cheese and beef.
- Roll up tortilla, folding in the sides to secure filling.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- Serve burritos warm on plate or tray with extra salsa or toppings if desired.
Substitution
The Shredded Beef Burrito from Del Taco copycat menu can be easily adapted if you don't have beef chuck roast by using shredded rotisserie chicken or slow-cooked pork shoulder instead. If refried beans are not available, mashed black beans or pinto beans work well as a substitute while maintaining the creamy texture. When slow cooking isn't an option, simmering the beef in a covered pot on low heat until tender can achieve similar results. Your choice of salsa can be customized to match your heat preference, from mild to extra spicy, without compromising the overall flavor. Be sure to warm tortillas before assembling to keep them soft and pliable for wrapping.
Tips
Make sure to sear the beef properly on all sides to lock in juices before slow cooking, which ensures tender, flavorful meat. Keep some cooking juices when shredding the beef to mix back in for enhanced taste and moisture. Warm your flour tortillas briefly before assembling to make them pliable and prevent tearing when rolling. When layering, spread the refried beans evenly and avoid overfilling to make the burritos easier to roll and enjoy.
Nutritions
The Shredded Beef Burrito provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, with the beef chuck roast supplying essential amino acids and iron for muscle repair and energy metabolism. Refried beans contribute dietary fiber and plant-based protein, promoting digestive health and prolonged satiety. Cheddar cheese adds calcium and fat-soluble vitamins, supporting bone health and immune function. Your meal also contains spices like cumin and chili powder, which may enhance metabolic rate and provide antioxidants.
Storage
Store leftover shredded beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Wrap prepared burritos tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before refrigerating to prevent them from drying out. When ready to eat, reheat your burrito in the oven or microwave until heated through to ensure an enjoyable meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute beef chuck roast with shredded chicken or pulled pork for a different protein variation. Instead of refried beans, black beans or pinto beans offer a lighter, fiber-rich option that complements the filling well. For a creamier texture, stir in sour cream or Greek yogurt into the beans before spreading on the tortillas. Try adding chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice to the shredded beef for a brighter, more aromatic flavor profile.
Allergies
The Shredded Beef Burrito contains common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and gluten from flour tortillas, which may trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or celiac disease. The refried beans could also pose a risk if they contain lard or cross-contamination with soy or other allergens. You should check ingredient labels carefully and consult with restaurant staff if you have specific food allergies or sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
Shredded Beef Burrito from Del Taco features tender, slow-cooked beef seasoned with a blend of spices that delivers rich, savory flavor in every bite. Its combination of hearty beef, fresh ingredients, and the signature sauce creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that fans consistently crave. Making the copycat recipe lets you enjoy this iconic taste at home, customizing spice levels and freshness to match Your preferences. Replicating this popular dish saves money while providing a delicious and authentic alternative to dining out.