Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese BurritoIngredients Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving that indulgent, comforting taste of Taco Bell’s Chili Cheese Burrito but wished you could make it fresh at home, I have fantastic news. This Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese BurritoIngredients recipe captures every cheesy, spicy, and hearty bite you love, all while being surprisingly simple to whip up in your kitchen. From the perfectly seasoned ground beef and creamy refried beans to the rich blend of melted cheddar cheese nestled inside warm flour tortillas, each element works together to create a truly irresistible meal that feels like a little taste of fast-food magic without ever leaving your house.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese BurritoIngredients are straightforward yet crucial for nailing the authentic flavor and perfect texture. Each one brings something special—from the spice of chili powder to the smoothness of refried beans, all combining to balance heat, creaminess, and zest.

• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that provides rich, meaty flavor and texture.
• 1 medium yellow onion diced: Adds a lovely sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
• 3 tablespoons chili powder: Packs just the right amount of smoky spice to awaken your taste buds.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives a subtle kick of heat without overwhelming the dish.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors making every bite savory and satisfying.
• 2 cups water plus 2 tablespoons divided: Helps blend and thicken the chili mixture perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: The secret to that lovely, thick, saucy consistency you’ll adore.
• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans: Adds creamy texture and classic burrito heartiness.
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste (about 6 tablespoons): Brings a rich tomato tang that rounds out the chili flavor.
• 3 cups cheddar cheese: Melts into irresistible gooeyness, tying everything together deliciously.
• 10 (10 inch) flour tortillas: The perfect soft and flexible wrapper for your burrito masterpiece.

How to Make Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese BurritoIngredients

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, then cook until the meat is nicely browned and the onions have softened. This foundational step develops rich flavors that form the heart of your burrito filling. Don’t forget to drain excess fat for a cleaner, less greasy result before moving on.

Step 2: Season and Add Water

Once your beef mixture looks beautifully browned, stir in the chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. The spices will bloom and infuse the beef with that iconic Taco Bell taste. Pour in 2 cups of water to help simmer the meat and incorporate the seasoning fully into the mixture.

Step 3: Thicken the Mixture

Next, whisk together the cornstarch and the remaining 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this slurry into the skillet with your beef and spices, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. You’ll notice the sauce thickening nicely, creating a luscious and cohesive filling.

Step 4: Add Beans, Tomato Paste, and Cheese

Stir in the refried beans and tomato paste until evenly combined, transforming your mixture into that classic chili cheese burrito filling. Lastly, add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well incorporated, giving you that gooey, cheesy goodness every bite deserves.

Step 5: Assemble the Burritos

Warm your flour tortillas in the microwave for about 15 seconds if needed to make them flexible. Place one tortilla on a cutting board and sprinkle a pinch of shredded cheese down the center. Spoon 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the meat mixture on top. Fold in the sides and roll tightly into a burrito log. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling for a perfect batch of ten.

How to Serve Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese BurritoIngredients

Garnishes

To elevate your burrito experience, serve with dollops of cool sour cream and a side of your favorite salsa. These classic toppings offer a refreshing contrast to the warm and spicy filling, making each bite delightfully balanced.

Side Dishes

Pair your burritos with crunchy tortilla chips, a fresh garden salad, or even Mexican rice and refried beans. These sides complement the bold flavors while adding texture and extra satisfaction to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try slicing your burritos into pinwheels for sharing at parties or layering your filling in a burrito bowl with fresh toppings, skipping the tortilla altogether. Both options give you the same delicious flavors while mixing up presentation and serving style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese BurritoIngredients filling or assembled burritos, refrigerate them in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This keeps everything fresh and flavorful, ready for a satisfying quick meal later.

Freezing

The burritos freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and place in a large freezer-safe zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it super convenient to enjoy a homemade favorite anytime without extra prep.

Reheating

To reheat, remove plastic wrap and microwave the burrito on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to preserve a slightly crisp tortilla shell.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese gives that classic taste and melty texture, you can also use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or add extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños to boost flavor and texture while keeping it meat-free.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe includes chili powder and cayenne pepper for moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing the cayenne or adding extra if you prefer more heat.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely! The filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready, just warm it up and assemble your burritos fresh for best results.

What’s the best way to warm up the tortillas?

Microwaving the tortillas for about 15 seconds makes them soft and pliable for rolling without tearing. You can also warm them on a dry skillet for a bit of light toasting that adds a nice flavor.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese BurritoIngredients recipe at home because it truly hits all the right notes: cozy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or for satisfying those fast-food cravings in a homemade way. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be repeating the recipe again and again — and sharing it with your favorite people too!

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