If you’re looking for a cheesy, crispy copycat meal that tastes like your favorite fast food stop, look no further than the Grilled Cheese Burrito, a crowd favorite that fans of our beefy melt burrito will love.
This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.
Those who enjoy family-style Tex-Mex can also try this taco bake casserole for a hearty meal that feeds a crowd.
Did you know that the magic of a grilled cheese burrito comes from grilling the whole tortilla until it turns golden and crisp, sealing melted cheese inside? With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a meal that will impress your family and friends.
Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and some tips to make this dish truly shine!
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Ingredients for Grilled Cheese Burrito
To create the perfect Grilled Cheese Burrito, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20 for optimal flavor
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning
- ⅔ cup water
- 15 ounce can nacho cheese sauce warmed before using
- 4 burrito-size flour tortillas soft and pliable so they fold easily
- 2 cups Mexican or Spanish rice cooked and kept warm
- 4 tablespoons Taco Bell Creamy Chipotle Sauce store-bought
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup tortilla strips for a crunchy topping
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese shredded
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded lettuce for fresh crunch
- 1 Roma tomato diced for brightness
- 2 pickled jalapeños sliced for extra heat
How to Prepare the Beef
Cook the seasoned beef first so it has time to cool slightly before you fill the tortillas:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains.
- Drain the Fat: Carefully pour off the excess grease, leaving about 1 teaspoon in the pan for flavor.
- Add the Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and ⅔ cup water, then simmer over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat.
- Rest the Filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef cool for 3 minutes so it holds together inside the tortilla.
Assembly: Bringing It All Together
Once your beef and rice are ready, it’s time to assemble your burritos!
- Warm the Tortillas and Rice: Microwave each tortilla for 15 seconds so it folds without cracking, and warm the rice for 1-2 minutes.
- Layer the Filling: Spread about ½ cup rice down the center of each tortilla, then add about 4 ounces beef, ¼ cup nacho cheese sauce, ½ cup Mexican blend cheese, and 1 tablespoon sour cream.
- Fold and Grill: Fold in the sides, roll tightly, and place each burrito seam side down in a dry nonstick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Finish the Burritos: Drizzle each one with 1 tablespoon Taco Bell Creamy Chipotle Sauce, sprinkle with crushed tortilla strips, and serve immediately while the cheese is melty.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about the Grilled Cheese Burrito is its versatility!
- Vegetable Additions: Stir sautéed bell peppers and onions into the beef for extra color and natural sweetness.
- Alternative Proteins: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken, cooking until the meat reaches 165°F.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few extra sliced pickled jalapeños to the filling.
- Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack in place of Mexican blend for a bolder, spicier cheese pull.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burritos alongside a batch of the best cornbread you’ll ever make for a hearty, comforting plate.
For drinks, a chilled horchata or a crisp lime soda balances the rich, cheesy flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a crispy, cheesy Grilled Cheese Burrito that is sure to become a family favorite.
It’s a satisfying choice for weeknight dinners, lunches, or even a fun game day spread.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and fillings. There’s no limit to how you can customize this recipe!
Try it today and experience the deliciousness for yourself!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can swap in ground turkey or chicken and season it the same way. Cook it until it reaches 165°F for food safety.
What should I serve with Grilled Cheese Burritos?
Cornbread, a crisp side salad, or a simple bowl of tortilla soup all pair well with the rich, cheesy filling.
How can I store leftovers?
Wrap the burritos tightly in foil and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispy exterior.
Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat Recipe)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
The Grilled Cheese Burrito features savory seasoned ground beef, creamy nacho cheese, melted Mexican blend cheese, and fluffy rice wrapped in a golden, crispy tortilla. It is perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or feeding a hungry crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, 80/20 for optimal flavor
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning
- ⅔ cup water
- 15 ounce can nacho cheese sauce, warmed before using
- 4 burrito-size flour tortillas, soft and pliable so they fold easily
- 2 cups Mexican or Spanish rice, cooked and kept warm
- 4 tablespoons Taco Bell Creamy Chipotle Sauce, store-bought
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup tortilla strips, for a crunchy topping
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
- 1 cup shredded lettuce, optional, for fresh crunch
- 1 Roma tomato, optional, diced for brightness
- 2 pickled jalapeños, optional, sliced for extra heat
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains.
- Drain the Fat: Carefully pour off the excess grease, leaving about 1 teaspoon in the pan for flavor.
- Add the Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and ⅔ cup water, then simmer over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat.
- Rest the Filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef cool for 3 minutes so it holds together inside the tortilla.
- Warm the Tortillas and Rice: Microwave each tortilla for 15 seconds so it folds without cracking, and warm the rice for 1-2 minutes.
- Layer the Filling: Spread about ½ cup rice down the center of each tortilla, then add about 4 ounces beef, ¼ cup nacho cheese sauce, ½ cup Mexican blend cheese, and 1 tablespoon sour cream.
- Fold and Grill: Fold in the sides, roll tightly, and place each burrito seam side down in a dry nonstick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Finish the Burritos: Drizzle each one with 1 tablespoon Taco Bell Creamy Chipotle Sauce, sprinkle with crushed tortilla strips, and serve immediately while the cheese is melty.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
