Make this Taco Bell Quesarito for a cheesy, crunchy, and delicious copycat recipe. This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or any time you crave a flavorful meal. Its combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa makes it a standout choice that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
- Flavorful Experience: Each bite bursts with delicious flavors from the seasoned beef and melted cheese.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or guacamole for an extra kick.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze some for later.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds with this tasty meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather these essential kitchen tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Skillet
- Pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Spoon
Why These Tools Matter
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef evenly and sautéing onions.
- Pot: Ideal for cooking rice perfectly fluffy with chicken broth.
- Mixing Bowl: Great for combining ingredients like sour cream and sauces before layering.
Ingredients
Make this Taco Bell Quesarito for a cheesy, crunchy, and delicious copycat recipe. This was one of our favorite menu items and now we can make it at home.
For the Beef Filling
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 Tablespoon Taco Seasoning
- 2 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Onion (chopped)
For the Rice Layer
- 1 1/2 cups Uncooked white Rice
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
For the Sauce Mixture
- 1 cup Chunky Salsa
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 2 teaspoons Chipotle Sauce from can of Adobo Peppers
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
Tortilla and Cheese Layer
- 8 Flour Tortillas (burrito size)
- 1 cup Nacho Cheese sauce
- 2 cups shredded Mexican Cheese Blend
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

How to Make Taco Bell Quesarito
Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling
In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil.
2. Sauté chopped onions until translucent.
3. Add ground beef; cook until browned.
4. Mix in taco seasoning and water; simmer until thickened.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Layer
In a pot:
1. Combine uncooked rice with chicken broth.
2. Bring to a boil then reduce heat; cover and simmer until rice is tender.
Step 3: Make the Sauce Mixture
In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together salsa, sour cream, chipotle sauce, garlic salt, cumin, chili powder, sugar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Quesarito
On each tortilla:
1. Spread some nacho cheese sauce.
2. Layer with cooked rice and beef filling.
3. Top with more sauce mixture and shredded cheese.
4. Roll tightly into burritos.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
In a clean skillet:
1. Heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Place rolled quesadillas seam-side down; cook until golden brown on both sides.
Now you’re ready to serve your homemade Taco Bell Quesarito! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
How to Serve Taco Bell Quesarito
Serving your homemade Taco Bell Quesarito is all about enhancing the flavors and making it a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this cheesy dish.
Add Fresh Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
- Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness that complements the spices.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Pair with Dips
- Guacamole: A creamy dip that pairs perfectly with the crunchy quesadilla.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa can brighten up the dish with its acidity.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spicy and savory notes.
Serve with a Fresh Salad
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful salad adds sweetness and crunch.
- Simple Green Salad: Tossed greens with lime vinaigrette can refresh the palate.
How to Perfect Taco Bell Quesarito
Making the perfect Taco Bell Quesarito takes a little attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Bold Seasoning: Ensure your ground beef is well-seasoned. Use plenty of taco seasoning for full flavor.
- Proper Cooking Time: Cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water to enhance its taste.
- Layer Ingredients Wisely: Layer your ingredients evenly inside the tortilla to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce will elevate the taste and texture of your quesadilla.
- Grill for Crunchiness: Grill or pan-fry your quesadillas until golden brown for that perfect crunchy exterior.

Best Side Dishes for Taco Bell Quesarito
Complementing your Taco Bell Quesarito with side dishes enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic sides to consider:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that pairs perfectly with any Mexican dish; cook it with spices for added flavor.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and savory, refried beans add protein and richness alongside your quesadilla.
- Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing, crispy tortilla chips served with salsa provide a delightful crunch before the main course.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime and chili powder makes for a sweet and tangy side dish.
- Black Bean Salad: This refreshing salad adds fiber and protein, balancing out the meal beautifully.
- Fruit Salsa: A sweet fruit salsa can be a surprising but delicious addition, offering a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the quesadilla.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Taco Bell Quesarito can be easy, but there are some common mistakes that could affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their meat properly. Always use taco seasoning to enhance the flavor.
- Overcooking the rice: If you cook your rice too long, it may become mushy. Follow the cooking instructions carefully for perfect results.
- Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can break when folded. Warm them slightly before assembly to make them more pliable.
- Ignoring cheese quality: Not all cheeses melt well. Choose a good-quality Mexican cheese blend for the best texture and flavor.
- Rushing assembly: Take your time during assembly to ensure even distribution of ingredients. This prevents any one flavor from overpowering others.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Taco Bell Quesarito in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow it to cool completely before placing it in the container to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing Taco Bell Quesarito
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Taco Bell Quesarito can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Taco Bell Quesarito
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quesadilla on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Taco Bell Quesarito?
The Taco Bell Quesarito is a delicious fusion of burrito and quesadilla, featuring cheesy goodness wrapped in soft tortillas.
Can I customize my Taco Bell Quesarito?
Absolutely! You can add or substitute ingredients like beans, different meats, or extra toppings like guacamole and jalapeños.
How do I make my Taco Bell Quesarito spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chipotle sauce or include diced jalapeños in your filling.
Can I make a vegetarian version of Taco Bell Quesarito?
Yes! Simply replace the meat with black beans or lentils and load up on veggies for added flavor.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe typically yields 4 servings, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Conclusion
The Taco Bell Quesarito is not only a cheesy delight but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various fillings and toppings according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy creating this beloved dish at home!

Taco Bell Quesarito
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of a homemade Taco Bell Quesarito, a fusion of burrito and quesadilla that combines savory seasoned beef with creamy cheese and zesty salsa. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a hearty meal. With its cheesy goodness wrapped in soft tortillas and customizable toppings, this dish ensures satisfaction for both kids and adults alike. Gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting Tex-Mex favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 flour tortillas (burrito size)
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and water; simmer until thickened.
- In a pot, combine uncooked rice with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer until rice is tender.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together salsa, sour cream, chipotle sauce, garlic salt, cumin, chili powder, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- On each tortilla, spread nacho cheese sauce. Layer with cooked rice and beef filling. Top with sauce mixture and shredded cheese. Roll tightly into burritos.
- In a clean skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Place rolled quesadillas seam-side down; cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Quesarito (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg