Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe

This Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito is the ultimate throwback to everyone’s fast-food favorite, the “Chilito.” Imagine a warm, soft flour tortilla overflowing with rich, beefy chili, luscious melted cheese, and all the nostalgia of late-night drive-thru runs—in your own kitchen. It’s an unbeatable comfort food that’s quick to whip up and so ridiculously satisfying, you might just skip the takeout line for good!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito is just how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each item brings its own magic, creating that unforgettable flavor and melty texture you crave—no complicated shopping trip required.

• Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for juicy, flavorful chili—leaner beef can get too dry.
• Tomato sauce: Adds tang and body to the chili mixture, mimicking Taco Bell’s signature base.
• Chili powder: Provides that bold, unmistakable chili flavor—don’t skimp!
• Cumin: Lends depth and a warm, savory spice that’s crucial for Tex-Mex flavor.
• Onion powder & garlic powder: Quick and easy for punchy flavor without the hassle of chopping.
• Salt & black pepper: Essential for bringing out all those chili spices.
• Flour tortillas: Go for large, burrito-sized tortillas that are fresh and pliable for easy rolling.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: The classic melty cheese—sharp cheddar gives you that stretchy, gooey bite.
• Water: Helps the chili simmer to the perfect consistency, keeping everything saucy and spreadable.

How to Make Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. This is the foundation of your chili—the browning adds a little crispiness and tons of umami to the filling.

Step 2: Add Spices and Tomato Sauce

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t forget a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together, letting the spices toast in the beef fat for a minute. Pour in the tomato sauce and a splash of water to loosen up the mixture, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 3: Simmer Until Thick

Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken up but still stay lusciously saucy—that’s the key for spreading onto the tortillas later. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; this is your chance to make it perfect!

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

While the chili simmers, warm your flour tortillas. You can nuke them for 20 seconds in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel or toast them for a few seconds per side on a dry skillet. Warm tortillas are less likely to crack and way easier to roll up.

Step 5: Assemble the Burritos

Spoon a generous layer of the chili down the center of each tortilla, then top with as much shredded cheddar as your heart desires. The heat will help that cheese melt into the chili—you want it gooey and irresistible, just like the original Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito.

Step 6: Roll and Heat

Fold the sides of the tortilla in, roll it up tightly from the bottom, and place seam side down. For that authentic fast-food feel, you can pop the burrito in a skillet or press for a minute to toast the outside and help seal everything inside.

How to Serve Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito

Garnishes

A pile of shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes add fresh crunch and color; a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream takes it over the top. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra cheese or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Side Dishes

This burrito pairs beautifully with classic Tex-Mex sides: think Spanish rice, refried beans, or crunchy tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but a simple salad or corn on the cob rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the burrito into rounds for party appetizers, or wrap each burrito in foil for a fun, fast-food style grab-and-go meal. Try setting up a burrito bar with assorted toppings and sauces so everyone can customize their own Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito just how they like it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get even better as the chili melds—just keep the garnishes separate until serving time!

Freezing

To freeze, let the burritos cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Label each burrito so you’re always ready for a quick, crave-worthy lunch or dinner.

Reheating

For best results, reheat refrigerated or thawed frozen burritos either in the microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel) or in the oven at 350°F wrapped in foil until hot. If you like a crispy exterior, unwrap and toast in a dry skillet for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a veg-friendly version that’s still delicious and comforting. Everything else stays the same—you won’t miss a thing.

What’s the best way to keep tortillas from tearing?

Warm tortillas are key—either microwave with a damp paper towel or quickly toast in a dry skillet before assembling. If they’re especially stiff, wrap them in foil and heat in the oven to get them extra pliable.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

While cheddar is classic for a Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito, feel free to mix in pepper jack for heat or even a Mexican blend for extra meltiness. Don’t be afraid to use what you love!

How do I make the chili spicier?

Add a bit of cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, or fresh diced jalapeño to the chili mixture for more heat. Top with hot sauce before rolling up the burrito if you’re a spice lover.

Can I prepare these in advance for meal prep?

Definitely! Assemble, cool, and wrap each burrito individually so you can grab and reheat all week. Hold off on fresh toppings until you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a meal-prep MVP on your hands.

Final Thoughts

Few things beat the pure comfort of a Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito—especially when you can make it at home, just how you remember. With simple ingredients and a handful of steps, you’ll satisfy every craving for that cheesy, chili-filled classic. Go ahead—give it a try and treat yourself to a taste of fun nostalgia tonight!

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