There’s a thrill that comes from transforming beloved fast-food favorites into homemade delights, and my Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos are no exception. Picture this: a warm, cheesy burrito cradling perfectly seasoned beef, fluffy Spanish rice, and the satisfying crunch of tortilla chips, all encased in a golden, crispy shell. It’s the comforting meal you crave, but with the added joy of knowing exactly what’s inside, made right in your kitchen—no late-night drive-thru necessary!
After a long day, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as sinking your teeth into this hearty treat that marries convenience and indulgence. These burritos not only capture the essence of that iconic fast-food dish but also allow for a sprinkle of creativity—feel free to customize with your favorite fillings or tweak the spice levels to suit your palate. In just about an hour, you can serve up delicious memories that will leave your family asking for seconds. Ready to dive into this cheesy goodness? Let’s get started!
Why will you love Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos?
Ultimate Comfort Food: Melted cheese and savory beef make these burritos an irresistible treat.
Quick to Prepare: In just an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve!
Customization Galore: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or add veggies for a delicious twist.
Crispy Perfection: The golden, crispy exterior holds all that cheesy goodness inside.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults alike will love these burritos—perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings!
No Drive-Thru Needed: Get that fast-food fix from the comfort of your home, knowing exactly what’s inside.
Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos Ingredients
For the Filling
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and depth to the filling for a more flavorful experience.
- Uncooked Basmati Rice – Provides a fluffy base; can be swapped with any long-grain rice you prefer.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory flavor; fresh garlic is a great alternative if you want a punchier taste.
- Kosher Salt – Balances and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Onion Powder – Contributes a mild onion flavor; fresh onions can be sautéed for extra aroma.
- Low-sodium Chicken Broth – Cooks the rice while adding flavor without overwhelming; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Tomato Sauce – Moistens the filling and adds a hint of acidity for balance.
- Ground Beef – The heartiness you crave; ground turkey or plant-based meat can lower fat content.
- Ground Cumin, Chili Powder, Paprika – This spice blend creates depth and complexity in flavor.
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang to the filling mix.
- Mayonnaise – Enriches the flavor of the sauce; plain yogurt is a lighter substitution.
For the Assembly
- Flour Tortillas – The perfect wrap for all this delicious filling; corn tortillas can also be used if preferred.
- Store-bought or Homemade Queso – Adds an indulgent, melty texture you can’t resist.
- Red Tortilla Chips – Sprinkle for that satisfying crunch; regular tortilla chips can be an easy substitute.
- Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully to create that iconic grilled cheese experience; Monterey Jack works well for a milder taste.
For Dipping
- Chipotle Sauce – Introduces a smoky kick; taco sauce is a great alternative for those who prefer less heat.
- Sour Cream and Hot Sauce – Serve together to elevate the flavor and spice level even more in your meal.
With these Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a delicious, homemade version of your fast-food favorite!
How to Make Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos
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Prepare Rice: In a pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup of uncooked basmati rice and toast briefly. Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, and ½ cup of tomato sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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Cook Beef: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over medium heat. Cook 1 pound of ground beef, seasoning with 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika, until browned and crumbly. Mix in remaining garlic powder, broth, and tomato sauce; combine this mixture with the cooked rice and let it cool slightly.
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Assemble Burritos: Lay out flour tortillas and spread a generous amount of the filling in each. Top with ½ cup of queso, a handful of crushed red tortilla chips for crunch, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Roll each burrito tightly, tucking in the ends to seal.
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Fry Burritos: In a nonstick pan, heat enough oil to coat the bottom over medium heat. Fry the burritos seam-side down until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Prepare Dipping Sauce: In a bowl, mix together ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of chipotle sauce, and a pinch of salt to create a delicious dipping sauce.
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Serve: Carefully cut the burritos in half and serve with the dipping sauce and a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh guacamole for a delightfully creamy addition.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos
Fridge: Store leftover burritos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents sogginess.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through, ensuring that the outer layer stays crispy.
Avoid Moisture: Prevent sogginess by avoiding direct moisture when wrapping or storing, and ensure they cool completely before refrigerating.
Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delightful burrito recipe to suit your tastes!
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap ground beef for lentils or black beans for a hearty, meatless option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. These legumes also add protein and fiber!
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Try substituting cheddar cheese with pepper jack for an extra kick of spice and creaminess. Melted pepper jack will give you that delightful warmth!
- Heat Index: If you love a bit of heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into your filling. It’s a simple way to elevate the spice level!
- Sautéed Veggies: Boost nutrition and flavor by adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the filling. Their fresh flavors will add a delightful crunch!
- Spicy Chipotle: For a smoky twist, add extra chipotle sauce into the filling or the dipping sauce for a deeper layer of flavor. It complements the cheese beautifully!
- Taco Fiesta: Add taco seasoning to the beef mix for a burst of additional flavor. It’s like tasting all the best taco ingredients in every bite!
- Crunch Boost: Replace red tortilla chips with crumbled nacho cheese chips for a cheesy crunch that surprises the palate and keeps the flavor game strong.
- Sour Cream Swap: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter option that still gives great creaminess without sacrificing flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, rice, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain flavor and freshness. Additionally, you can assemble the burritos (without frying) and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just heat a nonstick pan and fry the burritos until golden brown. You’ll have a quick and satisfying meal that retains all the deliciousness of freshly made burritos—ideal for busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos?
Elevate your homemade burrito experience with delightful sides that bring out the best in these cheesy wonders.
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Guacamole: Creamy and refreshing, guacamole adds a rich texture and bright flavors that perfectly balance the savory burritos. Each scoop not only complements the spices but also adds a refreshing coolness.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden, crunchy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the gooey burrito filling. Serve them with a sprinkle of seasoning for extra flavor enhancement!
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Fresh Salsa: A vibrant, zesty salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brightens every bite. The acidity cuts through the richness, making it an irresistible addition to your meal.
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Spanish Rice: Fluffy, seasoned Spanish rice brings a comforting warmth that harmonizes with the burritos. Serve on the side for a fulfilling plate that invites hearty enjoyment.
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Coleslaw: Crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy burritos. It brings a delightful crunch while enhancing your meal with its tangy dressing.
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Mexican Street Corn: Sweet and spicy elote topped with cotija cheese offers a flavorful twist that enhances your burrito experience. The bold flavors make it a delightful sidekick to your main dish.
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Chipotle Dipping Sauce: How about a side of extra flavor? A chipotle dipping sauce made from sour cream and chipotle sauce amplifies the spicy notes, perfect for those wanting to turn up the heat.
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Refreshing Lemonade or Iced Tea: Quench your thirst and add a refreshing element to your meal with a tall glass of lemonade or iced tea. The cooling flavors contrast beautifully with the warm, savory burritos.
Expert Tips for Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos
- Perfectly Crispy: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that golden, crispy exterior without burning the burritos.
- Even Filling Distribution: Avoid overfilling by using a modest amount of the mixture; this helps prevent spills during frying.
- Temperature Check: A nonstick pan is key to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Keep adjusting heat levels as needed.
- Texture Contrast: For added crunch, don’t skip the red tortilla chips—these elevate the burrito experience and replicate that beloved fast-food texture.
- Customizable Spice: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference. You can easily make milder Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos!
Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for the filling?
Absolutely! For the most flavorful filling, I recommend using fresh ingredients. Look for basmati rice that is fluffy and has no broken grains. For the ground beef, choose lean cuts to reduce grease, while cheese should be freshly shredded for a superior melt. Avoid any tomatoes with dark spots, as they may be overripe.
How should I store leftover burritos?
To keep your Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making them a perfect meal prep option!
Can I freeze these burritos, and how do I reheat them?
Definitely! To freeze your burritos, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. For reheating, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the wrapped burritos directly on the oven rack, and heat for about 20 minutes. This method keeps them crispy outside while ensuring they are heated through.
What should I do if my burritos are soggy?
If your burritos turn out soggy, this might be due to excess moisture in the filling or from frying at a too-low temperature. To avoid this, make sure to let your filling cool before assembling and fry them in hot oil. If they are already soggy, you can crisp them up by placing them back in the pan or oven for a few minutes.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This recipe can easily accommodate dietary restrictions. For gluten-free options, use corn tortillas instead of flour. If you’re concerned about calories or fat, consider substituting ground beef with ground turkey or a meat alternative. Remember, if serving to young children or pets, check the spice levels, as chipotle sauce may be too hot!
Delicious Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos At Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Rice: In a pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup of uncooked basmati rice and toast briefly. Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, and ½ cup of tomato sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Cook Beef: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over medium heat. Cook 1 pound of ground beef, seasoning with 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika, until browned and crumbly. Mix in remaining garlic powder, broth, and tomato sauce; combine this mixture with the cooked rice and let it cool slightly.
- Assemble Burritos: Lay out flour tortillas and spread a generous amount of the filling in each. Top with ½ cup of queso, a handful of crushed red tortilla chips for crunch, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Roll each burrito tightly, tucking in the ends to seal.
- Fry Burritos: In a nonstick pan, heat enough oil to coat the bottom over medium heat. Fry the burritos seam-side down until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Prepare Dipping Sauce: In a bowl, mix together ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of chipotle sauce, and a pinch of salt to create a delicious dipping sauce.
- Serve: Carefully cut the burritos in half and serve with the dipping sauce and a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!