Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese

Skip the drive thru and treat yourself to a homemade Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito right in your own kitchen This craveable classic wraps up savory beef refried beans gooey cheese and a touch of spice in a soft flour tortilla Just the thing for a family dinner that feels both comforting and a little nostalgic

My husband is a big fan of Taco Bell so I set out to recreate his favorite burrito at home The first time I made this recipe he said it beat the drive thru version and our kids always ask for seconds

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides the rich savory base for the filling Choose eighty five percent lean for the best flavor and moisture
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and layers of flavor Dice finely for even cooking
• Chili powder: Delivers that signature chili taste Look for fresh high quality powder for the biggest flavor
• Cayenne pepper: Brings just enough kick For extra heat add a pinch more
• Salt: Balances all the flavors Use kosher salt for the best seasoning
• Water: Helps blend and simmer the filling Make sure it is filtered for a clean taste
• Cornstarch: Thickens the chili mixture yielding a hearty consistency Sift to avoid lumps
• Refried beans: Create creaminess and hearty texture Seek out plain or low sodium for complete control over taste
• Tomato paste: Adds tangy depth and beautiful color Opt for double concentrated if you can find it
• Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness Go for sharp for more punch or use a Mexican blend for variety
• Flour tortillas: Wrap it all up Choose soft ten inch tortillas that feel pliable when you squeeze the package

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef and Onion

Cook ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet over medium high heat Stir frequently and use a spatula to break up the meat Continue until the beef is browned and the onions are soft about eight minutes Drain any extra fat so the filling will not be greasy

Season and Simmer

Add chili powder cayenne pepper and salt Stir thoroughly to coat the meat Let the spices bloom for one minute before pouring in two cups of water Stir to combine and reduce the heat to medium Let bubble gently

Thicken the Filling

In a small bowl whisk the cornstarch with two tablespoons of water until smooth Pour this mixture into the beef and stir constantly Bring to a simmer until the filling starts to thicken about three to five minutes

Add Beans and Tomato Paste

Spoon in the refried beans and tomato paste Mix well to create a cohesive almost creamy mixture Stir over low heat until everything is piping hot and the tomato paste is fully distributed

Melt in the Cheese

Sprinkle in one and a half cups of cheddar cheese Stir gently until it is fully melted into the filling Taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Assemble the Burritos

Warm each flour tortilla for fifteen seconds in the microwave so they do not tear Lay on a board Sprinkle a pinch of cheese in the center then spoon on about a quarter to half cup of the beef mixture Fold the sides inward then roll tightly into a log

Serve

Enjoy hot Serve with extra cheese salsa or sour cream if desired Best eaten fresh but leftovers reheat beautifully

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Cheddar cheese is my favorite part of this recipe Its sharp bite melts perfectly into the filling and I remember my kids peeking over the counter just waiting for their first bite We always end up making a double batch because no one can resist seconds

Storage Tips

These burritos keep well in the fridge for up to four days Make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or plastic before storing For long term storage let them cool completely then wrap each burrito individually and freeze in a large bag When ready to eat thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat directly in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or a meatless substitute for a lighter option For extra vegetables add bell peppers diced jalapeño or even corn For cheese try Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for more depth Any soft flour tortilla size will work just adjust your filling amount

Serving Suggestions

Serve these chili cheese burritos with classic sides like Mexican rice or a simple green salad Add salsa sour cream or pickled jalapeños on the side A handful of tortilla chips makes it a real fiesta style meal These are also fun sliced into bite size rounds for game day snacks

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Cultural and Historical Context

This burrito is based on a fast food favorite from Taco Bell which became iconic in the nineties Families loved it for its hearty chili filling and gooey cheese Wrapped up to go it offered comfort food flavor in a portable package Recreating it at home lets you control the quality and spice

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar is ideal for a classic melt, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or Mexican blend can be used for variety.

→ How can I add extra heat?

Increase the cayenne or add diced jalapenos to the filling for a spicier kick.

→ Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and wrap the burritos, then freeze them for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to eat.

→ What are good side dishes?

Pair with rice, chips and salsa, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.

→ Are there ways to make it healthier?

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, add more vegetables like bell pepper, and opt for whole wheat tortillas.

→ Can I substitute the beef?

Absolutely. Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a different protein option.