The Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito is the perfect homemade version of the fast-food favorite. This burrito features a delicious filling made with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. It’s easy to make at home, and the combination of chili powder, cayenne, and tomato paste gives the filling an irresistible bold flavor. Serve these burritos with sour cream, salsa, or your favorite toppings for a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
If you’re a fan of Taco Bell’s Chili Cheese Burrito, you’ll love this homemade version. With ground beef, melted cheese, and a flavorful chili sauce, these burritos are easy to make and absolutely delicious.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Beef: 1 pound, for a hearty filling.
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced, to add flavor to the beef.
- Chili Powder: 3 tablespoons, for that bold chili flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper: 1 teaspoon, to add a bit of heat.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to season the beef mixture.
- Water: 2 cups, to help create the chili sauce.
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons, to thicken the sauce.
- Refried Beans: 1 16-ounce can, for added creaminess.
- Tomato Paste: 1 6-ounce can (about 6 tablespoons), to give the sauce richness.
- Cheddar Cheese: 3 cups, shredded, for that melted cheesy goodness.
- Flour Tortillas: 10 10-inch tortillas, for wrapping the filling.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, cooking until the beef is browned.
- Step 2:
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then add the chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Step 3:
- Add the tomato paste and refried beans to the meat mixture. Stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Step 4:
- Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth, then add this mixture to the beef. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Step 5:
- Fold the shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture until it melts. Simmer the chili cheese sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 6:
- Warm each tortilla by microwaving for 15 seconds or lightly dampening with water and heating.
- Step 7:
- Place a tortilla on a clean surface, add a bit of cheese to the center, and scoop about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the meat mixture on top. Fold in the sides and roll into a burrito.
- Step 8:
- Repeat with the remaining filling and tortillas. Serve with sour cream and salsa if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these burritos hot, straight from the skillet, with your favorite sides like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
- If you have leftovers, wrap the burritos individually in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the burritos in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier burrito, increase the cayenne pepper or add sliced jalapeños to the filling.
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like rice, black beans, or extra vegetables for more texture and flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends using freshly grated cheddar cheese for a richer flavor and smoother melting.
- Rachael Ray suggests adding a drizzle of hot sauce over the burritos before serving for extra heat.
- Ina Garten advises using high-quality tomato paste for a deeper, richer sauce flavor.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- This homemade version of the Taco Bell classic is easy to make and full of flavor.
- It’s a customizable recipe—add your favorite toppings and sides for a personalized meal.
- Perfect for quick dinners or meal prep, these burritos are sure to satisfy any craving for cheesy, savory goodness.
VARIATIONS
- Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Add black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist on the classic flavor.