This Easy Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito is a fun meal you can whip up at home! It’s packed with hearty chili, cheesy goodness, and wrapped in a soft tortilla.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the burrito. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or even black beans for a vegetarian twist. I find that mixing a bit of chopped mushrooms with ground meat adds flavor and texture.
Onion: I recommend using yellow onion for its sweetness. If you’re not a fan of its bite, consider using scallions or shallots instead, which offer a milder taste.
Chili Sauce: The Taco Bell-style sauce gives that authentic flavor. You can use canned chili or make your own (as shown in the recipe). If you’re avoiding beef, try a vegetable chili or simply omit it entirely for a cheese burrito!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little extra flavor. If you’re going dairy-free, there are great vegan cheeses that melt well available in stores.
How Do I Ensure My Burritos Are Perfectly Wrapped?
Wrapping your burrito tightly is key to keeping everything inside when you bite into it. Here’s how to do it right:
- Warm the tortilla slightly to make it flexible. You can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds.
- Place the filling in the center but not too close to the edges; you want room to fold the sides in.
- Fold the sides over the filling first, then roll from the bottom up in a tight motion to trap the filling inside.
- For added crispiness, lightly toast the seam-side down on a skillet until golden.
With a bit of practice, you’ll become a burrito-wrapping pro in no time!
Easy Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
- 1 cup Taco Bell style chili sauce (or homemade chili sauce*)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 6 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, sour cream, tortilla chips, salsa
Homemade chili sauce (optional):
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to impress friends at a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Chili Sauce (if using homemade):
In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Then, add chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder; stir and cook for another 30 seconds. Slowly whisk in beef broth or water and bring it to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, remove from heat, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier option!
3. Combine and Simmer:
Stir the chili sauce (whether homemade or store-bought) into the beef mixture. Add the additional chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly and meld the flavors together.
4. Assemble the Burritos:
Warm up the flour tortillas slightly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds will do). Spoon a generous amount of the beef chili mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Top it with shredded cheddar cheese while the filling is hot to help melt the cheese.
5. Wrap It Up:
Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and then roll it up tightly from the bottom to enclose everything. Make sure it’s secure so nothing spills out!
6. Crisp It Up (Optional):
If desired, place the burritos seam-side down on a hot skillet or griddle for a few minutes until the tortilla is golden and slightly crispy, making for an even tastier bite!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious burritos hot and enjoy them with your favorite toppings like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, tortilla chips, and salsa. Get ready for a fiesta of flavors!
Enjoy your homemade copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos, loaded with melty cheese and hearty beef chili!
FAQ for Easy Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Keep the chili sauce for flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftover Burritos?
Yes! To freeze burritos, cool them completely, then wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.
What Can I Use Instead of Flour Tortillas?
If you prefer a gluten-free option, try using corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas. Just be sure to heat them slightly before wrapping to ensure they don’t crack.
