Delicious Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Craving the unmistakable flavors of your favorite fast food fix? Look no further than this homemade delight: the Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito. Recreating that addictive drive-through taste, this recipe hits all the right notes. The secret? Perfecting the chili mixture’s consistency with the ideal blend of seasonings, creating a hearty and savory filling that will have you coming back for more.

I’ve been on a quest to nail down this savory sensation, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and gooey cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla, is pure comfort food magic. Even my toughest critic – my hungry teenager – gave these burritos a resounding stamp of approval, preferring them over the fast-food version. A sentiment echoed in my household, where these burritos have become a go-to meal that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul.

And the best part? These Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos freeze like a dream, making them perfect for meal prep or those busy weeknights. With customizable ingredients and a freezer-friendly nature, this recipe is a winner for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of nostalgia with a homemade twist. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor every flavorful bite of these delicious burritos!

Quick Benefits

• Saves money by satisfying fast food cravings at home
• Freezes well for convenient future meals
• Customizable with additional vegetables, different cheeses, and meat options
• Easy to make and perfect for a comforting, satisfying meal

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe

• Authentic Taco Bell Flavor: Recreate the addictive taste of Taco Bell’s Chili Cheese Burrito at home with this recipe.
• Saves Time and Money: Say goodbye to late-night fast food runs or takeout orders by making these satisfying burritos in the comfort of your own kitchen.
• Perfectly Balanced Consistency: Master the art of achieving the right texture with the chili mixture – thick enough to stay put without becoming too pasty.
• Family Favorite: Win over picky eaters with these homemade burritos that even surpass the taste of the drive-through version, as proven by a hungry teenager’s approval.
• Versatile and Customizable: Customize your burritos with additional veggies, different cheeses, or even leaner protein options like ground turkey to suit your preferences.
• Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch and freeze individual burritos for a quick and convenient meal option that tastes just as delicious as freshly made.
• Kid-Approved Dipping Options: Serve with sour cream, salsa, ranch dressing, or tortilla chips for a fun, interactive meal experience that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients for Delicious Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Chili Beef Filling

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 cups water, plus 2 tablespoons divided
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 pound ground beef

Additional Filling & Assembly

• 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
• 10 (10 inch) flour tortillas
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (about 6 tablespoons)

How to Make Delicious Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Step 1: Cook beef and onion

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat, then add chili powder, cayenne, salt, and 2 cups of water.

Step 2: Thicken mixture

Combine cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Stir into the meat mixture and simmer until thickened.

Step 3: Add beans and tomato paste

Combine refried beans and tomato paste, stirring until mixed thoroughly.

Step 4: Melt cheese

Combine 1½ cups of shredded cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble burritos

Place a tortilla on a cutting board, warm in microwave for 15 seconds if necessary. Sprinkle a pinch of shredded cheese on the tortilla, then add ¼-½ cup of the meat mixture.

Step 6: Roll and serve

Fold the sides in and roll each tortilla into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Serve with sour cream and salsa, if desired.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and cooked the Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos, you can store the leftovers in the freezer for future consumption. To do this, wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness. Then, place the wrapped burritos in a freezer bag or airtight container to keep them organized and protected in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen burrito, simply microwave it for a couple of minutes until heated through, and it will taste just as delicious as when freshly made. These frozen burritos can be stored in the freezer for several months, making them a convenient and satisfying option for quick meals.

For short-term storage in the refrigerator, you can keep any leftover burritos in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the burritos cool completely before refrigerating them to maintain their texture and flavor. When you’re ready to eat the refrigerated burritos, you can reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole can enhance the flavors and freshness of the reheated burritos. Whether stored in the freezer for long-term convenience or in the refrigerator for a few days, these Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos are a versatile and delicious meal option that can be enjoyed anytime.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version of this Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito, you can easily substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu. Make sure to season the alternative protein with the chili powder and cayenne pepper as per the recipe instructions to achieve that distinct flavor profile. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth of flavor.

If you prefer a spicier kick to your burritos, consider swapping out the cheddar cheese for a melting cheese with more heat, such as pepper jack or a blend of cheeses with jalapeño. This will elevate the overall spiciness of the dish while still maintaining that gooey, cheesy texture. Feel free to customize the level of heat to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, set up a DIY burrito bar for a family meal or gathering. Lay out bowls of additional toppings like diced jalapeños, bell peppers, different cheeses, sour cream, salsa, and ranch dressing for everyone to customize their own copycat Taco Bell chili cheese burritos. Let each person fill their flour tortilla with the beef and bean mixture, sprinkle on their choice of toppings, and roll it up for a personalized burrito experience.

To elevate your copycat chili cheese burritos, try serving them with a side of homemade guacamole and tortilla chips for added crunch and freshness. The creamy texture of the guacamole complements the spicy and cheesy flavors of the burritos perfectly. You can also add a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad tossed in a simple lime vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the burritos. This complete meal will satisfy all your cravings and impress your family and friends with a delicious Tex-Mex feast.

FAQs for Delicious Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Can I omit the cornstarch in this recipe?

No, it’s best not to omit the cornstarch as it plays a crucial role in achieving the right consistency for the chili mixture. Without it, the mixture may end up too watery or you might overcook it trying to thicken it, resulting in tough meat.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey if you’re looking for a healthier option. The recipe will still turn out delicious with ground turkey.

How can I store these chili cheese burritos?

These burritos freeze incredibly well. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They can be reheated in the microwave for a couple of minutes straight from the freezer, making them a convenient make-ahead meal that lasts for months.

What are some additional toppings or side dishes that go well with these burritos?

Sour cream and salsa make great accompaniments for dipping. You can also serve them with Spanish rice, tortilla chips, or a side of diced jalapeños or bell peppers for extra flavor. Different cheeses like pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend can be used to add variety to the dish.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito brings the same comfort and convenience to your home as it has to mine. There’s something so satisfying about recreating a beloved fast food favorite in your own kitchen and making it even better. The balance of flavors and textures in these burritos is truly something special, and I love how customizable they are to suit different tastes and preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner option, a make-ahead meal for busy days, or a delicious snack to curb those fast food cravings, these chili cheese burritos have got you covered. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and make them your own. And remember, having a stash of these in the freezer is a game-changer for those moments when you need a tasty meal in a hurry. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito and savor the satisfaction of a job well done in the kitchen!

Delicious Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

“Recreate the iconic Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito at home with this recipe – perfectly seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheddar cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineMexican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings10 Servings (10 burritos)

Ingredients

Chili Beef Filling

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 cups water, plus 2 tablespoons divided
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 pound ground beef

Additional Filling & Assembly

• 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
• 10 (10 inch) flour tortillas
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (about 6 tablespoons)

Instructions

1. Cook beef and onion: 1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat, then add chili powder, cayenne, salt, and 2 cups of water.
2. Thicken mixture: Combine cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Stir into the meat mixture and simmer until thickened.
3. Add beans and tomato paste: Combine refried beans and tomato paste, stirring until mixed thoroughly.
4. Melt cheese: Combine 1½ cups of shredded cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
5. Assemble burritos: Place a tortilla on a cutting board, warm in microwave for 15 seconds if necessary. Sprinkle a pinch of shredded cheese on the tortilla, then add ¼-½ cup of the meat mixture.
6. Roll and serve: Fold the sides in and roll each tortilla into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Serve with sour cream and salsa, if desired.