This Easy Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito is a tasty treat that combines spicy chili, melted cheese, and wrapped in a soft tortilla. It’s quick and so satisfying!
There’s something fun about making your favorite fast food right at home. Plus, I love layering on extra cheese—because, why not? It’s a win-win! 🧀🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for a healthier option, but any beef will work. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use black beans for a vegetarian twist.
Chili Beans: Canned chili beans are super convenient. If you want to control the spice, opt for mild beans, or go for spicy if you like some heat. You can even use kidney or pinto beans as a substitute!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are classic here, but if you’re gluten-free, corn tortillas work too. Just be cautious as they can break more easily. If you need a low-carb option, lettuce wraps are also a fun choice!
Cheese: I love the flavor of cheddar, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend are great substitutes. You can even mix in some pepper jack for a spicy kick!
How Do You Ensure the Burrito Rolls Up Perfectly?
Rolling a burrito can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your tortillas are warm; it makes them more pliable.
- Don’t overfill! Stick to about 1 cup of the chili mixture to prevent bursting.
- When folding, bring the sides in first, then roll from the bottom up while tucking the filling as you go. This helps keep everything inside!
With practice, it gets easier, and your burritos will look restaurant-perfect in no time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup canned chili beans with sauce (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch burrito size)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
- Cooking oil or spray (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to make! It includes about 10 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes for cooking and assembling the burritos. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chili Beef Filling:
To start, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the finely chopped onions. Cook this mixture, breaking up the beef with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and the onions are soft, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your filling lovely and not overly greasy.
2. Add Chili Ingredients:
Next, stir in the chili beans with their sauce, tomato sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to taste. Then, reduce the heat and let this simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want it to thicken slightly and for all those wonderful flavors to blend together.
3. Assemble the Burritos:
While your chili mixture simmers, warm up the flour tortillas to make them easier to roll. You can do this by microwaving them for about 20 seconds or warming them in a dry skillet. Once soft, take about 1 cup of the chili beef filling and spoon it into the center of each tortilla. Top the filling with about 1/2 cup of shredded cheese to make it extra cheesy!
4. Roll the Burritos:
Now for the fun part! Fold the sides of each tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from one end to the other, keeping everything cozy inside. Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if it takes a few tries to get the perfect roll!
5. Melt the Cheese & Serve:
If you like, you can crisp up the burritos! Place them seam-side down on a hot skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is gooey. If you prefer, you can also microwave the burritos in a microwave-safe dish for about 45-60 seconds until the cheese melts.
6. Serve:
Your burritos are now ready to enjoy! You can cut them in half if you’d like and serve them warm alongside some sour cream, jalapeño slices, salsa, and even some Fritos or tortilla chips for that extra crunch!
Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell-style Chili Cheese Burrito packed with gooey cheese and hearty chili beef goodness! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
FAQ – Easy Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will give you a leaner burrito. Just keep in mind that turkey might need a little more seasoning, so adjust the spices to your preference.
How Can I Make the Burritos Spicier?
If you love heat, consider using spicy chili beans or adding diced jalapeños to the filling. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or use spicy salsa when serving for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare These Burritos Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chili filling and assemble the burritos ahead of time. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake until heated through!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, just microwave until warm or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
