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.