If you have ever craved the perfect indulgent snack that layers melted cheese, seasoned beef, and bold flavors all wrapped up in a warm tortilla, then this recipe for Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos is going to become your new obsession. This version captures the essence of those crave-worthy burritos with homemade touches that elevate every bite, from the perfectly seasoned Spanish rice to the crispy tortilla chips adding an exciting crunch. It’s a rich, gooey delight that’s surprisingly doable in your own kitchen and is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you.

Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward pantry staples and fresh ingredients that each play a starring role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy, spicy chipotle mayo to the tangy, tender seasoned beef and the melty cheese lining the skillet, these ingredients come together harmoniously to create comfort and excitement wrapped in every bite.

Unsalted butter: Melts down to toast the rice gently, adding a nutty flavor and richness to the base.
Uncooked basmati rice: Rinsed first for fluffiness, it soaks up the broth and tomato sauce perfectly, becoming the flavorful Spanish rice.
Garlic powder: Adds depth and that beloved savory touch throughout the rice and beef.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in every component without overpowering.
Onion powder: Subtle onion flavor that blends beautifully in the seasoning mix.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses moisture and flavor into both the rice and seasoned beef.
Tomato sauce: Provides a balanced acidity and color to the rice and beef mixture.
Neutral oil: For browning the beef without competing flavors.
Ground beef: The hearty protein backbone, lovingly seasoned and cooked until just perfect.
Ground cumin: Adds that classic Southwest warmth and earthiness to the beef.
Chili powder: Supplies a gentle heat and complexity to the meat mixture.
Paprika: Offers a smoky sweetness that rounds out the spices.
Sour cream: Blended into the chipotle mayo for creamy, cooling contrast.
Mayonnaise: Creates the silky base for chipotle sauce.
Chipotle sauce from chipotle chiles in adobo: Packed with smoky heat and tang for a saucy kick.
Flour tortillas (10″ size): The soft, pliable wrap to hold all the goodness together.
Queso: Use store-bought or homemade for melty, cheesy indulgence inside each burrito.
Red tortilla chips: Adds a signature crunch and saltiness that makes these burritos unforgettable.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded and divided to melt on the pan and crisp the burrito exterior.
Sour cream and hot sauce: For serving and extra flavor layering.

How to Make Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos

Step 1: Prepare the Spanish Rice

Start by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat to toast the basmati rice. This simple step adds a cozy, nutty dimension. Stir until the rice turns golden brown before sprinkling in garlic powder, salt, and onion powder to awaken the flavors. Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce to low heat, cover, and let it simmer undisturbed to fluff up perfectly—an essential base for this burrito’s heartiness.

Step 2: Cook the Seasoned Beef

While the rice simmers, heat neutral oil in a large skillet and brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks into satisfying crumbles. Once browned, infuse the meat with garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, onion powder, and paprika, stirring to distribute the bold spices evenly. Add chicken broth and tomato sauce, then let it simmer gently until most of the liquid evaporates, resulting in a juicy, well-seasoned filling that complements the creamy rice beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Chipotle Mayonnaise

Create a luscious chipotle mayo by blending sour cream, mayonnaise, and the smoky chipotle sauce from your can of chipotle chiles in adobo. This sauce adds a creamy backing packed with a smoky, spicy punch that dances on your tongue, giving the burritos their signature kick that you’ll crave again and again.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos

Lay a warm flour tortilla flat and pile on layers of the prepared Spanish rice and seasoned beef, spooning about half a cup of each for generous portions. Add a tablespoon of chipotle mayo, another tablespoon of queso, and scatter 4 to 5 pieces of broken red tortilla chips right in the center. Fold in the sides and then roll the burrito tightly to keep all those delicious layers snug inside. Repeat this with the remaining tortillas to get six packed, ready-to-cook burritos.

Step 5: Grill the Burritos with Cheese

Here’s the secret to that crispy, cheesy exterior that makes these the ultimate comfort food. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, then arrange a line of shredded cheddar cheese about the length of a burrito right in the center of the pan. Carefully place a burrito on top, seam side down, so the melting cheese acts like glue. When the cheese starts browning around the edges, flip the burrito to cook the other side to golden perfection. This method ensures each burrito crusts up beautifully with cheesy goodness melting into every bite.

How to Serve Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos

Garnishes

Top your burritos with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for that perfect tangy creaminess or extra heat. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or diced green onions can also freshen up the plate and add a pop of color that’s as inviting as the first cheesy bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these burritos with classic Tex-Mex sides like crisp tortilla chips and fresh guacamole, or try a simple mixed green salad for balance. Refried beans or a scoop of pico de gallo also complement the robust flavors without stealing the spotlight from your stars.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice your grilled cheese burritos in half on a diagonal to showcase the melty, layered fillings inside. Serve them on a platter with small bowls of chipotle mayo, salsa, and sour cream for dipping. Turn it into a festive party platter so everyone can grab their favorite combo and mix flavors as they go!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover burritos tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep them chilled in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to three days, making them perfect for a quick lunch or dinner after a busy day.

Freezing

To freeze, individually wrap each burrito in foil and place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. These burritos freeze well for up to two months. When you want a comforting meal later, just thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat burritos in a nonstick skillet over medium heat to revive that crispy, cheesy exterior, flipping carefully so they warm evenly inside. Alternatively, unwrap and microwave for convenience, then crisp up quickly in a hot pan or under the broiler for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos?

Absolutely! Cheddar works beautifully for its sharp, melty qualities, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend for a different flavor profile and varied meltiness that suits your taste.

Is it possible to make these burritos vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef for seasoned black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. The spices and chipotle mayo still deliver plenty of flavor, making it just as satisfying without the meat.

What kind of rice works best for this recipe?

Basmati rice is ideal here for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture after cooking. But if you don’t have it, long-grain white rice will also do the trick nicely.

Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Definitely. Both the Spanish rice and seasoned beef can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Assemble and grill the burritos just before serving for a fresher taste and crispy finish.

How spicy are these burritos?

The chipotle sauce lends a gentle smoky heat that’s flavorful but not overwhelming. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the chipotle amount or serve the hot sauce on the side for guests to add as they like.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a fun, mouthwatering recipe to recreate a beloved fast-food favorite right in your own kitchen, these Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos will not disappoint. They balance rich, comforting layers of cheese and seasoned beef with exciting textures and just the right amount of smoky heat. Once you take that first gooey bite, you’ll be hooked — don’t be surprised if friends and family come knocking, eager to get a taste of this delicious homemade indulgence. So, grab those tortillas and get cooking; your next favorite meal awaits!

Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burritos Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 19 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 burritos 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

This Copycat Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burrito recipe combines savory seasoned beef, flavorful Spanish rice, chipotle mayo, crunchy tortilla chips, and a melty cheese crust that replicates the iconic fast-food favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen. Wrapped in warm flour tortillas and cooked to golden perfection with a cheesy crust, these burritos are perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Instructions

Make Spanish Rice: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the rinsed basmati rice and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is toasted and golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add garlic powder, salt, and onion powder, stirring for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and tomato sauce, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer undisturbed for 17 minutes. Remove lid and fluff the rice with a fork.
Prepare Seasoned Beef: Heat neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 7 minutes. Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, onion powder, and paprika until evenly combined. Add chicken broth and tomato sauce, bring to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid evaporates, about 5 minutes.
Make Chipotle Mayonnaise: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and chipotle sauce from canned chipotle chiles in adobo. Mix well and set aside.
Assemble Burritos: Lay a flour tortilla flat on your work surface. Spread 1/2 cup of the Spanish rice in the center, followed by 1/2 cup of the seasoned beef. Add 1 tablespoon of chipotle mayo, 1 tablespoon of queso, and 4 to 5 broken pieces of red tortilla chips. Fold the two sides of the tortilla inward, then fold the bottom half up and tightly roll the burrito, tucking in the sides. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
Cook Burritos with Cheesy Crust: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Arrange about 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese in a line roughly the length of a burrito in the center of the skillet. Place a burrito seam side down directly on top of the cheese. When the cheese browns and bubbles around the edges, carefully flip the burrito with a spatula, pressing the cheese to the seam to seal it. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown on the other side. Transfer to a serving platter and repeat with remaining burritos and cheese.
Serve: Serve the grilled cheese burritos hot with sour cream and your favorite hot sauce on the side.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with seasoned cooked beans or plant-based meat alternatives.
If you prefer a spicier burrito, add extra chipotle sauce or hot sauce to the chipotle mayonnaise.
Use fresh homemade queso or a good quality store-bought queso for best taste.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet to maintain the crispy cheesy crust.
Ensure tortillas are fresh and pliable to avoid cracking when rolling.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pan-frying, Simmering
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired