Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat) is a delightful twist on traditional burritos, offering a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy nacho cheese, and crunchy tortilla strips all enveloped in a cheesy exterior. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe brings the essence of Taco Bell straight to your kitchen. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite among many!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: Each bite is filled with seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese, ensuring you get a burst of flavor every time.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or slice it up for appetizers at parties; it’s sure to please any crowd.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences—add vegetables or swap out sauces for more variety.
• Cheesy Goodness: The melted cheese on the outside creates a crispy texture that perfectly complements the soft filling.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make your Grilled Cheese Burrito experience seamless.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Non-stick skillet
• Medium skillet
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and makes flipping your burritos easy without losing any filling.
• Medium skillet: Ideal for browning meat evenly and ensuring perfect seasoning absorption.
• Spatula: Necessary for flipping the burritos without damaging them and for serving.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine sauces and other ingredients effortlessly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 envelope taco seasoning
• ¼ cup water
• 15 ounces can Rico’s nacho cheese sauce
• 2 cups prepared Mexican rice
• 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 Tablespoon chipotle sauce
• Sour cream
• Tortilla strips
• 4 burrito size tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese

How to Make Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown and drain your ground beef. This step ensures that your meat is flavorful and ready for seasoning.

Step 2: Add Seasoning

To the drained beef, add your taco seasoning and water. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.

Step 3: Prepare Chipotle Sauce

In a mixing bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the chipotle sauce until well combined. This will add a creamy yet spicy kick to your burritos.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos

On each tortilla, add a layer of nacho cheese followed by a quarter of the ground beef mixture and ½ cup of Mexican rice.

Step 5: Add Chipotle Sauce

Evenly divide the chipotle sauce amongst the four burritos. This adds depth of flavor with every bite.

Step 6: Top It Off

Top each burrito with some sour cream and a generous amount of tortilla strips. Fold them up tightly to keep all the delicious fillings inside.

Step 7: Cook the Burrito

In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add ¼ cup of shredded cheese. Place each burrito seam side down on top of the cheese in the pan. Cook until the cheese is browned and adhered to the burrito.

Step 8: Flip It Over

Using a spatula, lift the burrito out of the pan. Sprinkle another ¼ cup of cheese in the pan, then flip the burrito onto that side and cook until golden brown.

Step 9: Repeat

Repeat this process with all remaining burritos until they are all crispy and delicious. Enjoy your homemade Grilled Cheese Burritos!

How to Serve Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Serving your Grilled Cheese Burrito is where the fun begins! Pair it with fresh sides and sauces for a delightful meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your burrito enjoyment.

With Fresh Guacamole

• Homemade or store-bought guacamole adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that complements the burrito perfectly.

Crunchy Tortilla Chips

• Serve with tortilla chips for an added crunch. Pair them with salsa or queso dip for a delicious appetizer.

Zesty Pico de Gallo

• This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice provides a refreshing counterbalance to the hearty burrito.

Spicy Jalapeños

• For those who love heat, serve pickled or fresh jalapeños on the side. They add a spicy kick that elevates the entire meal.

Cilantro Lime Rice

• A side of cilantro lime rice brings extra flavor and freshness. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a great companion dish.

Cool Sour Cream Dip

• Offer sour cream as a dipping sauce. Its coolness contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy burrito.

How to Perfect Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Perfecting your Grilled Cheese Burrito ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Use lean ground beef – Opting for lean beef reduces excess grease while still providing great flavor.
• Don’t overfill the tortillas – Keep fillings moderate to prevent tearing when folding, ensuring a perfect burrito shape.
• Toast the burritos well – Make sure both sides get crispy by allowing sufficient time in the skillet; this adds amazing crunch.
• Experiment with cheese – Try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Serve immediately – Enjoy your burritos right after cooking for the best taste and texture; they’re best when hot!

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Cheese Burrito can take your meal from good to great! Here are some tasty options that will complement your main dish perfectly.

1. Refried Beans – Creamy and flavorful, refried beans are a classic Mexican side that adds protein and richness.
2. Mexican Street Corn – This grilled corn dish topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder is sweet, savory, and utterly delicious.
3. Garden Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette offers freshness that balances the richness of the burrito.
4. Elote Dip – A creamy corn dip that’s perfect with tortilla chips; its flavors echo traditional Mexican street corn.
5. Chili – A warm bowl of chili pairs wonderfully with burritos, adding spice and heartiness to your meal.
6. Stuffed Jalapeños – These spicy bites filled with cream cheese make for an exciting appetizer or side dish bursting with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Grilled Cheese Burrito, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the beef can lead to bland burritos. Always use taco seasoning and ensure it’s mixed well with the meat.
• Not draining the beef: Leaving excess fat in the beef mixture can make the burrito greasy. Be sure to drain the ground beef thoroughly after cooking.
• Overstuffing the burrito: Adding too much filling can make it difficult to fold and seal the burrito. Stick to recommended portions for a more manageable wrap.
• Neglecting cheese on both sides: To achieve that signature grilled cheese effect, apply cheese on both sides of the burrito. This ensures a crispy, cheesy outer layer.
• Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when folding. Warm them slightly before assembling to make them more pliable.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your Grilled Cheese Burritos in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers or tightly wrap them in foil or plastic wrap.

Freezing Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

• Duration: You can freeze these burritos for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Wrap each burrito in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed and crispy on the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)?

The Grilled Cheese Burrito is a delicious dish filled with seasoned ground beef, Mexican rice, nacho cheese, and topped with tortilla strips and chipotle sauce.

Can I customize my Grilled Cheese Burrito?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.

How do I keep my Grilled Cheese Burritos from getting soggy?

Ensure that you drain any excess moisture from your beef and use fresh ingredients. Also, reheat them properly using one of the methods mentioned above.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option while maintaining great flavor.

Conclusion

The Grilled Cheese Burrito is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various fillings and toppings based on your preference. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a snack, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Give it a try today!