Name: Savory Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Made Easy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (or ground turkey); 1 medium Yellow Onion (diced); 2 tbsp Chili Powder (smoked chili powder optional); 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (omit for milder burrito); 1 tsp Salt (to taste); 2 cups Water (or chicken/vegetable broth); 2 tbsp Cornstarch (with 1/4 cup water for thickening); 1 can Refried Beans (or black beans); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (or canned diced tomatoes); 1.5 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded); 4 large Flour Tortillas (or whole wheat/corn tortillas)

As I stood by the stove, the warm scents of cumin and sizzling beef transported me back to countless late-night cravings. There’s something undeniably special about the Taco Bell classic, and today, I’m thrilled to share my version of the Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito. This homemade delight not only brings that beloved fast-food taste to your kitchen, but it also comes together in just under thirty minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when everyone’s hungry. With the ability to customize the ingredients, you can make it as healthy or indulgent as you desire, all while keeping your family smiling at the dinner table. Ready to dig into this comforting treasure? Let’s dive in!

Why is this burrito so satisfying?

Homemade Comfort: This Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito brings the warmth and satisfaction of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. It’s customizable, allowing you to adapt ingredients such as cheese or beans to fit your palate.

Quick and Easy: With just under thirty minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll find it’s just as efficient as ordering takeout, but with the added benefit of controlling every ingredient.

Versatile Flavor: From the savory blend of ground beef to the creamy refried beans, every bite is packed with flavor. Feel free to add jalapeños or swap in black beans for an extra kick!

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this burrito will be a hit. Served with fresh guacamole or homemade salsa, it’s impossible not to impress!

By making this delightful burrito at home, you can reclaim those late-night cravings while ensuring it’s always fresh. Dive into this recipe today, and see for yourself why everyone loves it!

Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Ingredients

For the Filling

Ground Beef – The main protein source; swap with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Medium Yellow Onion – Adds flavor and aroma; shallots can offer a milder taste.
Chili Powder – Provides spice and warmth; consider smoked chili powder for a deeper flavor.
Cayenne Pepper – Enhances heat; omit if you prefer a milder burrito.
Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
Water – Helps create a savory sauce; use chicken or vegetable broth for additional flavor.
Cornstarch – Thickens the mixture; flour or arrowroot powder works as a substitute.

For the Creamy Layer

Refried Beans – Adds creaminess and texture; black beans can provide a different twist.
Tomato Paste – Brings depth and sweetness; canned diced tomatoes are a fresh alternative.
Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully; alternatives include mozzarella or pepper jack for extra kick.

For the Wrap

Flour Tortillas – Encases the filling; opt for whole wheat or corn tortillas for a unique taste.

By gathering these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating delightful Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos that warm the heart and satisfy cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat and add your ground beef along with the diced medium yellow onion. Cook the mixture for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a cleaner, heartier filling for your Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito.

Step 2: Season the Mixture
Once the beef is browned, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well, allowing the spices to coat the meat evenly, which should take about 1–2 minutes. You’ll begin to notice the fragrant aromas meld together, enhancing the flavors that will define your burrito.

Step 3: Create the Sauce
Pour 2 cups of water into the skillet with the seasoned beef. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water, stirring until smooth. Slowly add this mixture into the skillet while stirring continuously. Let the entire mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens to a saucy consistency, creating a rich filling for your burrito.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Cheese
Stir in the refried beans and tomato paste into the thickened beef mixture until fully blended, cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes over low heat. As the ingredients meld, gradually add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it melts into the delicious, creamy filling that perfectly complements the Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito.

Step 5: Prepare the Tortillas
If desired, warm your flour tortillas in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds to make them pliable. This step will ensure easy rolling without tearing. Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface, ready to be filled with your savory meat and bean mixture.

Step 6: Assemble the Burritos
On each tortilla, place a small handful of shredded cheese followed by 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the beef mixture. Carefully fold in the sides and then roll tightly from the bottom up to form the burrito shape, ensuring that all the delicious filling stays tucked inside each Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
As a finishing touch, serve your homemade burritos with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole to enhance the meal. These can be enjoyed warm right away, bringing the familiar fast-food flavors to your dining table that everyone will love on busy weeknights!

Make Ahead Options

These Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef and bean filling up to 3 days in advance by cooking it fully, letting it cool, and then refrigerating in an airtight container. Additionally, you can roll the burritos and place them in the freezer for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then store in a ziplock bag to prevent freezer burn. To finish, simply microwave or bake the burritos until heated through, ensuring a satisfying meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made. This prepping method saves you time during busy weeknights, letting you enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal effort!

Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Variations

Feel free to explore your culinary creativity by customizing this delicious burrito to suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas made from almond or coconut flour to keep it celiac-friendly without compromising flavor.
Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, and include more beans for added protein.
Cheese Lovers: Mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack to dial up the flavor with every bite.
Extra Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers or zucchini to your filling for a boost of color and nutrients—plus a satisfying crunch!
Spicy Twist: For those who love heat, stir in some diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to ignite those taste buds.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked chili powder instead of regular to add depth and a delightful smokiness to the filling.
Creamy Avocado: Top your burrito with fresh avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole for a further layer of creaminess, perfectly balancing the spice.
Salsa Fiesta: Serve with a variety of homemade salsas (try refreshing pico de gallo or zesty salsa verde) for a burst of freshness and flavor.

With all these delightful variations, enjoy exploring new takes on your homemade Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito. It’s the perfect base to create a meal that resonates with your unique taste! And why stop there? You might just find some inspiration for sides like Rhubarb Streusel Cheesecake or something savory like my Chipotle Ranch Burrito. Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

A comforting chili cheese burrito deserves delightful companions to elevate your meal experience.

Creamy Guacamole: The buttery texture of fresh avocados enhances the savory flavors of the burrito perfectly. Plus, a dash of lime adds a refreshing zest!
Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: This bright and fluffy rice dish brings a lightness that contrasts beautifully with the hearty burrito. Each bite feels like a tropical escape, whisking you away to sunny shores.
Fresh Pico de Gallo: A burst of freshness from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a vibrant bite that balances the rich burrito. It’s an easy, quick side that brings a taste of summer!
Corn Salad: Sweet corn combined with lime juice and diced peppers is not only colorful but also offers a sweet crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft burrito.
Spicy Black Bean Soup: Warm and silky, this soup complements the burrito’s flavors and adds a comforting warmth. Perfect for dipping or drizzling!
Sour Cream: Classic yet essential. A dollop of cool sour cream provides a creamy tang that rounds out the savory notes and enhances every bite.
Homemade Salsa: Spice up your meal with some homemade salsa. Whether mild or fiery, the burst of flavor will make your chili cheese burrito experience unforgettable.
Chilled Beer or Limeade: Wash it all down with a refreshing drink. A cold beer or tangy limeade perfectly balances the warmth and flavors of your meal. Enjoy this satisfying combo, and your taste buds will thank you!

Storage Tips for Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Fridge: Store your burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to reheat for a quick meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each burrito in plastic wrap and place them in a ziplock bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without sacrificing quality.

Reheating: To reheat, unwrap the frozen burritos and microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

Preparation: Let the burritos cool completely before freezing to maintain their texture. Enjoy your Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito any time!

Expert Tips for the Best Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Warm Tortillas: Make sure to warm the tortillas before filling to ensure they are pliable and won’t tear when rolling, making your Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito easier to assemble.
Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overstuff your burritos. Filling them too much can lead to messy spills, so stick to a comfortable amount of filling for the best results.
Let it Simmer: Allow the filling to simmer for enough time to thicken properly. This will ensure that the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying experience in every bite.
Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to customize your burrito with different types of cheese or beans. Options like black beans or pepper jack cheese can elevate its flavor profile.
Cool Before Storing: If you’re planning to freeze your burritos, allow them to cool completely first. This prevents excess moisture buildup, ensuring they retain their delicious texture when reheated.

Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use for the burritos?
I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. However, if you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian version can work beautifully.

How do I store leftover burritos?
Store your burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick meal. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I freeze these burritos?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the burritos completely first. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a ziplock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, unwrap and microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through.

What should I do if my burrito filling is too runny?
If your filling is too runny, don’t worry! Start by simmering it a bit longer to allow excess moisture to evaporate. If you need to thicken it up quickly, mix another tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the filling while it simmers. This should help achieve that thick, creamy texture you want.

Can I change the ingredients to accommodate dietary restrictions?
Certainly! You can swap out the ground beef for a plant-based protein or use gluten-free tortillas to make the recipe more inclusive. And if you have cheese allergies, consider using nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese to suit your needs perfectly.

How do I know if my tortillas are fresh enough to use?
Look for tortillas that are pliable and free of dark spots or hard edges. If they feel stiff or have broken edges, they might not roll well without tearing. You can always warm them for 10-15 seconds in the microwave to make them more pliable before assembling your burritos.