Let’s face it: Taco Bell is every college student’s guilty pleasure, and the Crunchwrap is a staple menu item. Containing seasoned beef with melted nacho cheese, shredded lettuce, tomatoes and tostada shells, the ingredients are all superbly wrapped together in a golden flaky tortilla. Although going to the drive-thru at 3 a.m. is a tempting option, there’s nothing more rewarding than cooking this fresh alternative recipe for yourself.
Getting your ingredients prepped and assembled is the most important step. The best thing about Crunchwraps is their versatility, which means you can pick and choose any toppings of your choice. While traditional Crunchwraps are made using beef, I prefer substituting it for minced chicken or ground turkey. Other ingredients to include are burrito size tortillas, refried beans, nacho cheese, tostadas, Spanish rice, thick-cut Tillamook shredded cheese, lettuce and salsa.
To prepare your meat, coat a medium-sized pan with a drop of olive oil or nonstick cooking spray. Mince the chicken or beef on a cutting board and add your seasoning of choice (I recommend Tajin seasoning and black pepper). Then, cook until your meat is browned and set aside for later. Next, cook your Spanish rice and beans in two separate small saucepans following the directions on the back of each package, bringing both ingredients to a soft consistency.
Once all the ingredients are prepared, it’s finally time to assemble the Crunchwrap. Before placing your ingredients within the tortilla, one pro tip is to warm up your tortilla beforehand, allowing the base to become stretchy and provide more room for toppings. When putting together your Crunchwrap, first, spread a layer of beans and nacho cheese on the tortilla. Secondly, break one tostada into fourths and place the pieces in the center of your crunchwrap.
To complete this sensational Crunchwrap, place your meat, cheese, rice and additional toppings in the center. Fold the edges of the tortilla toward the middle, including the corner pieces, and carefully place it on a nonstick skillet. Allow the heat to seal the tortilla, and cook both sides until golden brown.
Crunchwraps are a universal food that everyone can enjoy, given its endless options of toppings and spices. If you’re really wanting to treat yourself, I recommend serving this dish up with a side of guacamole chips and salsa. Whether you’re creating this dish alone or with friends and family, it will curb anyone’s late-night Taco Bell cravings.
Emily is a senior studying integrated strategic communication at WSU Vancouver.