Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe
If you’ve ever found yourself craving a comforting meal that’s equal parts nostalgia and deliciousness, the Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito is about to become your new favorite homemade treat. This recipe captures all the goodness of the beloved fast food classic: a hearty chili beef filling, soft warm tortillas, and melty cheddar cheese rolled snugly together. No need for a drive-thru – you can recreate this icon at home, complete with all the bold flavor and satisfying gooeyness you remember.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes the Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito so craveworthy is its wonderful balance of simple, accessible ingredients. Each component matters: from the seasoned ground beef to the rich enchilada sauce, they work together to create that irresistible flavor and texture we all love.
- Ground Beef (1 lb): The savory foundation, bringing hearty flavor and protein to every bite.
- Taco Seasoning (1 packet): Adds punchy, classic seasoning with just the right kick of spices.
- Water (1 cup): Helps combine the seasoning and ensures a moist, chili-like filling.
- Chili Beans in Sauce (1 can, 15 oz): For creamy texture and an extra layer of chili flavor.
- Red Enchilada Sauce (1 can, 10 oz): Brings a tangy richness that binds the filling together.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Melts to create a luscious, gooey contrast to the savory meat.
- Large Flour Tortillas (6, 10-inch): Soft, sturdy wraps that hold all the chili cheese goodness inside.
How to Make Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks, making sure you get a nice even crumble. When the meat is browned and fully cooked, drain off any excess grease so your filling stays rich without being oily.
Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning and Water
Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the browned meat, then pour in the water. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes: this not only melds the flavors, but also thickens the sauce so your burrito filling isn’t runny.
Step 3: Stir in Chili Beans and Enchilada Sauce
Once the beef is perfectly seasoned, add the canned chili beans (with their sauce) and the entire can of enchilada sauce. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for about 5–6 minutes, giving it an occasional stir, until it thickens into a chili consistency that holds together beautifully in a burrito.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
While your filling simmers, set your tortillas apart – a good chili cheese burrito starts with a soft, pliable wrap! Briefly warm each one in a dry skillet or microwave. This stops them from cracking and ensures every bite is perfectly tender.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Spoon about half a cup of the chili mixture into the center of each warm tortilla. Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar over top while the filling is hot so it melts slightly. Then, roll up each tortilla tightly, folding in the sides as you go, to trap all that cheesy chili goodness inside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your fresh Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos on a plate and serve immediately while warm and melty. Get ready for pure comfort with every bite!
How to Serve Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito
Garnishes
The classic Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito is fantastic on its own, but you can dial up the fun with a few tasty garnishes. Try a sprinkle of chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a scattering of diced tomatoes for extra freshness and color. A bit of hot sauce or fresh cilantro can bring even more zing if you love a bold finish.
Side Dishes
Round out your meal by pairing these burritos with classic sides. A scoop of Spanish rice or some crunchy tortilla chips with salsa makes a delicious combination. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve alongside loaded nachos or Mexican street corn for a true feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your homemade Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito into a showstopper by slicing them in half on a diagonal and arranging on a platter. Or, line up several burritos and serve with a trio of dipping sauces – think salsa, guacamole, and queso – for a fun DIY burrito bar at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow resist eating them all in one sitting, you’ll be happy to know these burritos store wonderfully. Wrap leftover burritos individually in foil and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The filling also holds up well if stored separately in an airtight container.
Freezing
The Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito is a perfect candidate for make-ahead meals. Assemble the burritos, wrap each tightly in foil, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months, making future lunches or last-minute dinners a breeze.
Reheating
For best results, reheat refrigerated or frozen burritos in the oven (still wrapped in foil) at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave them, but unwrap from the foil and cover with a damp paper towel to keep the tortillas soft. Enjoy that warm, cheesy filling as if fresh from the skillet!
FAQs
Is this really the same as the Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito from the restaurant?
This homemade version is inspired by the original, right down to the saucy chili filling and gooey cheddar cheese. The taste and texture will bring back all those drive-thru memories but with a fresher, heartier feel only homemade can deliver.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for your favorite meatless crumble or cooked lentils. You’ll still get all the classic chili and cheese flavors in a satisfying burrito.
How can I make it spicier?
If you like some heat, simply add diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the chili mixture as it simmers. Pepper jack cheese is another fun way to add a spicy kick to your burrito.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Cheddar is classic for the Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito, but you can experiment with a blend of cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend will all melt beautifully and taste fantastic.
Do I have to use large flour tortillas?
Large, burrito-size tortillas work best to hold the generous filling. However, in a pinch you can use smaller tortillas – just use less filling and be prepared for mini burritos, which are adorable and perfect for snacks or parties.
Final Thoughts
There’s something extra special about making your own Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito from scratch. The process is easy, the flavors are spot-on, and every bite delivers nostalgia and comfort straight to your kitchen table. Give this recipe a try and let your household experience why this classic burrito remains a favorite for so many!
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Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 burritos 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the flavors of Taco Bell at home with this delicious Chili Cheese Burrito recipe. Savory ground beef, chili beans, and melted cheddar cheese wrapped in a warm flour tortilla create a satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans in sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
For Assembly:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
- Add Seasoning: Add taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Beans and Sauce: Stir in chili beans and enchilada sauce, then bring to a gentle simmer for 5–6 minutes until heated through and thickened to a chili-like consistency.
- Prepare Tortillas: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
- Assemble Burritos: Place about 1/2 cup of the chili mixture in the center of each tortilla, sprinkle generously with cheddar cheese, and roll up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
- Serve: Serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili mixture.
- These burritos can be wrapped in foil and kept warm in the oven until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 1250 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
