Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese

Few things satisfy a spicy craving like the nostalgic comfort of a Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito at home. This recipe packs all the beefy chili flavor and gooey cheese into tender flour tortillas for an easy weeknight treat. One bite whisks me back to road trips and late-night drive-through runs in college. Even better, all the ingredients are simple and easy to keep on hand.

I made a double batch for my friends last summer after game night and not a single burrito was left. Everyone raved about how close they tasted to the original.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Chose 80 percent lean for the best flavor and juiciness
• Yellow onion: Gives a fragrant savory base that mimics classic chili
• Chili powder: Choose fresh and fragrant powder for a deep chili flavor
• Cayenne pepper: Brings gentle but noticeable heat adjust to taste
• Salt: Enhances savory flavor and ties all the ingredients together
• Water: Helps emulsify and simmer the chili filling
• Cornstarch: Makes the filling luxuriously thick and prevents sogginess
• Refried beans: Canned for ease gives creamy texture with a hint of smokiness
• Tomato paste: Use high quality for intense tang and umami
• Cheddar cheese: Shred your own for the best melt and rich flavor
• Flour tortillas: Soft ten inch tortillas roll easily and hold plenty of filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Cook ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir frequently for about eight minutes until the onion is soft and beef is browned. Make sure to drain off any excess fat so the filling does not get greasy.

Season and Simmer:

Sprinkle in the chili powder cayenne and salt. Pour in two cups of water. Stir everything together and bring it up to a low simmer. Give it about five minutes so the spices bloom and the meat absorbs the seasoning.

Thicken the Mixture:

Mix the cornstarch and remaining water in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this slurry into the skillet stirring constantly. Let the filling cook for three to four additional minutes until noticeably thick. This makes the chili filling scoopable for easy burrito rolling.

Combine Beans Tomato Paste and Cheese:

Spoon in the refried beans and tomato paste directly into the meat mixture. Stir until no streaks remain. Fold in one and a half cups shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.

Assemble:

Warm the tortillas slightly so they flex without tearing. Lay one flat on a board and sprinkle a pinch of cheese then scoop a generous quarter to half cup of the filling down the center.

Roll the Burrito:

Fold in the sides then roll the tortilla tightly into a log starting from the bottom. Repeat with the rest.

Serve:

Enjoy right away or wrap in foil for easy reheating. Offer sour cream salsa or pickled jalapenos if desired.

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My favorite part of this burrito is the cheesy chili filling. Every family party turns into a contest for who can eat the most. My little cousin once declared he wished every meal came in burrito form and this one always wins his vote.

Storage Tips

Store leftover burritos wrapped in foil or plastic in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze place in a freezer-safe bag and keep up to two months. Reheat burritos in the microwave covered with a damp towel or crisp in a skillet.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground turkey for a lighter version or swap in plant-based beef if you want it vegetarian. For the cheese any good melting cheese like Monterey Jack works but stick with freshly shredded for best gooey results. You can also try black bean refried beans for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

These burritos are sturdy and tasty on their own but jazz them up with diced avocado hot sauce or a dollop of chunky salsa. A side salad or tortilla chips rounds out the meal and keeps things easy.

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Mastering the chili cheese burrito at home means bringing comfort and flavor to your kitchen. A nostalgic treat made better.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed.

→ How do I keep the burritos from becoming soggy?

Let the filling cool slightly before assembling and avoid overfilling to prevent excess moisture in the tortillas.

→ Can these burritos be frozen?

Assembled burritos can be tightly wrapped and frozen. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a damp towel to maintain softness.

→ Which cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and complements the chili flavors, but a blend of Monterey Jack or Colby works well, too.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Replace the beef with seasoned lentils or meat alternatives, and use vegetarian refried beans for a meat-free version.