If you’ve ever found yourself craving that melty, cheesy magic from Taco Bell, but want to bring it right into your own kitchen, you are in the perfect spot. The Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat) Recipe is an irresistible blend of flavorful seasoned beef, gooey nacho cheese, and crispy tortilla strips wrapped inside a grilled burrito with a crispy cheesy crust that will have you hooked from the very first bite. This recipe combines familiar Mexican-inspired ingredients in a fun, comforting, and utterly delicious way, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the list intimidate you—these few, straightforward ingredients all play an essential role in bringing that authentic, crave-worthy taste and texture to life. From the savory taco-seasoned beef to the creamy chipotle mayonnaise sauce, each component complements the others to build the perfect Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat) Recipe experience.
- Lean ground beef: Use 1 pound for a hearty, protein-packed filling that carries all the rich flavors.
- Taco seasoning envelope: This will infuse the beef with that classic Mexican spice blend.
- Water (¼ cup): Helps create just the right consistency for the seasoned beef mixture.
- Rico’s nacho cheese sauce (15 oz can): Essential for that creamy, melty cheesy flavor signature to the copycat burrito.
- Prepared Mexican rice (2 cups): Adds substance and a subtle, savory base for the burrito’s filling.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Creates the creamy, luscious base for the chipotle sauce.
- Chipotle sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds smoky heat and a depth of flavor that’s uniquely delicious.
- Sour cream: For cooling contrast and creaminess, balancing spice and texture.
- Tortilla strips: Brings delightful crunch inside the burrito for texture contrast.
- Burrito size tortillas (4): To hold all the goodness together perfectly.
- Shredded Colby jack cheese (2 cups): For melting on the outside, creating that crispy, golden crust.
How to Make Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Start by browning 1 pound of lean ground beef in a medium skillet over medium heat. Make sure to cook it until it’s thoroughly browned, then drain off any excess fat. This step sets the foundation for a flavorful, juicy filling that is authentically seasoned.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Add an envelope of taco seasoning and ¼ cup of water to the drained beef. Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the meat beautifully. This seasoning step brings out the signature savory-slightly-spicy taste that makes this burrito so addictive.
Step 3: Prepare the Chipotle Mayo
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of chipotle sauce. This smoky, creamy sauce will add a perfect kick and richness that balances the hearty beef and cheesy layers.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out your 4 burrito-sized tortillas and start layering: spoon a generous amount of nacho cheese sauce on each tortilla, followed by a quarter of the seasoned ground beef and about ½ cup of the prepared Mexican rice. This combination ensures every bite is bursting with layered flavors.
Step 5: Add the Chipotle Sauce
Evenly divide the chipotle mayonnaise across the 4 burritos, spreading it on top of the rice and beef. This addition elevates the flavor with its creamy heat.
Step 6: Top and Fold
Top each burrito with a dollop of sour cream and a handful of crunchy tortilla strips. These add creaminess and a delightful contrast in texture. Fold each tortilla into a neat burrito, making sure it’s sealed well to hold all your tasty fillings inside.
Step 7: Prepare for Grilling
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and sprinkle about ¼ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese directly onto the pan. This cheese will melt and help form that crispy, golden crust on the burrito’s exterior.
Step 8: Grill the Burrito – First Side
Place each folded burrito seam-side down onto the melted cheese in the skillet. Let it cook until the cheese browns and adheres to the bottom of the burrito. This step locks everything in and develops an irresistibly crispy, cheesy crust.
Step 9: Grill the Burrito – Second Side
Carefully lift the burrito using a spatula, sprinkle another ¼ cup of shredded cheese in the skillet, and flip the burrito onto the melted cheese to cook the other side. This dual-side grilling gives you maximum melty- cheesy crispiness all around.
Step 10: Repeat and Enjoy
Repeat this grilling process with all four burritos, then serve hot and fresh for an experience that’s just like biting into a fresh Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burrito right at home.
How to Serve Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or sliced green onions on top for a vibrant pop of color and a fresh herby kick that complements the rich and cheesy filling perfectly. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness and balances the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
This copycat burrito pairs wonderfully with classic Mexican sides such as pico de gallo, guacamole, or a simple side salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette. For something crunchy, chips and salsa or seasoned black beans make terrific companions that complete your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these burritos into a fun party platter by slicing them into smaller “bites” and serving with dipping sauces like extra nacho cheese, creamy avocado dip, or spicy salsa. You can also turn the filling into a loaded bowl by skipping the tortilla and layering all the ingredients with chips on the side for a deconstructed version.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The leftovers of this Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat) Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing to keep that crispy cheese crust from getting soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled burritos before grilling by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.
Reheating
To reheat, place the burrito in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side, just like when cooking fresh. This method will help revive the crispy exterior and melty cheese inside without turning it soggy, unlike microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! While Colby jack is great for that melt and mild flavor, cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend will also work beautifully. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand or prefer.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with seasoned sautéed mushrooms, beans, or plant-based meat alternatives. The key is to keep the flavorful filling and plenty of cheese for that classic texture and taste.
How spicy is the chipotle sauce?
The chipotle sauce adds a moderate smokiness and heat level. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount or omit it altogether. For extra heat, you can add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Just swap out the burrito-sized tortillas for corn or gluten-free tortillas, and double-check that your seasoning and sauces are gluten-free. This way, you’ll still get all the deliciousness without the gluten.
What’s the best way to keep the tortilla from getting soggy?
Grilling the burritos seam-side down first helps seal the edges and keeps everything inside. Also, allowing the beef mixture to thicken properly and not overloading the burrito with sauce will prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat) Recipe is a total game-changer when you want that fast-food favorite made fresh, filled with flavor, and bursting with cheesy goodness. It’s fun to make, satisfying to eat, and sure to become a fast family favorite whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something special. Give it a try and discover your new go-to comfort food!
Print
Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This Grilled Cheese Burrito recipe is a delicious Taco Bell copycat that combines seasoned ground beef, nacho cheese sauce, Mexican rice, and a creamy chipotle mayo, all wrapped in a soft tortilla and finished with a crispy, cheesy grilled exterior. It’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal with a Tex-Mex flair.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 envelope taco seasoning
- ¼ cup water
Sauces and Condiments
- 15 ounces can Rico’s nacho cheese sauce
- 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 Tablespoon chipotle sauce
- Sour cream (to taste)
Other Fillings
- 2 cups prepared Mexican rice
- Tortilla strips (to taste)
Tortillas and Cheese
- 4 burrito size tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
- Add seasoning: Return the drained beef to the skillet and add the taco seasoning and ¼ cup of water. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Prepare chipotle mayo: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and chipotle sauce until well combined.
- Assemble burritos: Lay out each tortilla and add a layer of nacho cheese sauce, a quarter of the seasoned ground beef, and half a cup of prepared Mexican rice.
- Add chipotle sauce and toppings: Divide the chipotle mayo evenly among the burritos, then top each with sour cream and a generous amount of tortilla strips. Fold each burrito securely.
- Cook cheese base: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese into the pan.
- Grill burrito side one: Place a burrito seam side down on the melted cheese. Cook until the cheese browns and sticks to the burrito, creating a crispy edge.
- Flip and cook side two: Use a spatula to lift the burrito, sprinkle another ¼ cup of cheese in the pan, and flip the burrito onto the melted cheese. Cook until the cheese on this side browns and adheres.
- Repeat for remaining burritos: Continue the grilling process with the remaining burritos, ensuring each side is golden and crispy with melted cheese adhesion.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, serve the grilled cheese burritos hot and enjoy the melty, crispy, flavorful goodness.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for less grease and a healthier option.
- If you prefer spicier burritos, increase the chipotle sauce amount or add jalapeños.
- Mexican rice can be made ahead to save time or substituted with cilantro-lime rice.
- Ensure the skillet is non-stick to prevent the cheese from sticking and tearing the tortilla.
- You can substitute Colby jack cheese with Monterey Jack or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- To keep burritos warm before serving, wrap them in foil and place in a low oven (200°F) briefly.
