Easy Copycat Taco Bell Beef Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe

Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Easy – are you one of the many who still dream of that classic, savory delight that’s become somewhat of a legend in the fast-food world? I certainly am! There’s a particular magic to the Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito: the unique blend of seasoned, hearty chili perfectly paired with melty, gooey cheddar cheese, all lovingly wrapped in a soft, warm flour tortilla. For countless fans, this isn’t just a burrito; it’s a comforting trip down memory lane, a highly sought-after menu item that, for many, is regrettably hard to find or has even disappeared from local menus entirely. The disappointment of craving something so specific and not being able to get it is real, and I understand it completely.

But what if I told you that you could recreate that unmistakable taste and texture, bringing all that nostalgic goodness right into your own kitchen? People adore this dish for its uncomplicated yet incredibly satisfying flavor profile, its perfect blend of warmth, spice, and creaminess that truly hits the spot, especially when you’re looking for that ultimate comfort food. The combination of rich chili and sharp, melted cheese is simply irresistible, and it’s surprisingly simple to master. I am absolutely thrilled to share a recipe that makes recreating the Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Easy and incredibly delicious. Get ready to banish those cravings and enjoy your favorite “secret menu” item anytime you wish!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Just a touch to get us started, helping our aromatics soften beautifully and preventing anything from sticking to the pan.
• 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10 recommended): This is the heart of our chili! I find a slightly leaner beef works best for a chili that isn’t too greasy, but still packed with flavor. You want enough fat to carry the taste, but not so much that you have to drain excessively.
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced: The unsung hero of many savory dishes, a finely diced onion provides a foundational sweetness and aromatic depth to our chili. It will practically melt into the sauce, adding body without being overtly chunky.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for that pungent, savory kick that makes any chili irresistible. Freshly minced is always my preference for the most vibrant flavor.
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: This will form the rich, tangy base of our chili, providing the classic tomato essence that balances all the savory spices.
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: I love the texture and brightness that diced tomatoes bring to the chili. Don’t drain them; we want all that flavorful juice!
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste: This concentrated tomato goodness is a secret weapon for deepening the flavor and thickening the chili, giving it that hearty, robust quality we’re aiming for in our Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Easy recipe.
• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred): To thin out our chili just a bit and add an extra layer of savory beef flavor without making it overly salty. You can always add more if you prefer a thinner consistency later.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder: This is the star spice, providing the signature chili flavor. I always recommend using a good quality chili powder for the best results.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Earthy, warm, and utterly essential for a classic chili taste. Cumin brings an aromatic complexity that really makes the flavors pop.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a subtle smoky depth that elevates the chili beyond the ordinary. If you don’t have smoked, regular paprika will work, but the smoky note is fantastic!
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor without adding more texture. It’s a great way to ensure that savory onion taste permeates every bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Similar to onion powder, this provides a consistent garlic flavor throughout the chili.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste): For a gentle warmth and a little kick! Adjust this to your personal preference for heat. I like just enough to know it’s there.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an herbaceous, slightly floral note that complements the other spices beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Salt is crucial for bringing all the flavors together. We’ll start with this amount and adjust later.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground preferred): Freshly ground pepper offers a much more vibrant and aromatic punch than pre-ground.
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional): While Taco Bell’s original chili cheese burrito doesn’t typically include beans, I sometimes like to add them for extra fiber and texture. If you’re a bean fan, go for it! Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and starchy liquid.
• 10-12 medium flour tortillas (8-inch or burrito size): These are our vessels! Make sure they are fresh and pliable for easy rolling.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: A generous amount of good quality, sharp cheddar is non-negotiable for a truly authentic chili cheese experience. Grating your own block of cheese will always melt smoother and taste better than pre-shredded, as it lacks the anti-caking agents. This is key for our Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Easy.

Preparing the Rich and Flavorful Chili

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

   First things first, let’s get that beautiful ground beef cooking. Heat your tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef. Using a wooden spoon or a spatula, break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. You want to brown it evenly, ensuring there are no pink bits left. This step is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor in our chili. As the beef cooks, it will release its juices and fat. We’re looking for a nice, even caramelization on the meat. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes, depending on your stovetop and the leanness of your beef. Once it’s thoroughly browned, carefully drain off any excess fat. I usually tilt the pot and use a spoon or paper towels to soak up the fat, leaving just enough to keep things flavorful without making the chili greasy. This attention to detail contributes to making this a truly easy and delicious Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   With the beef nicely browned and the excess fat removed, reduce the heat to medium. Add your finely diced yellow onion to the pot. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – these are flavor gold! Cook the onion for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has softened and become translucent. You don’t want it to brown, just to become tender and fragrant. Then, add your minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until you can really smell that wonderful garlic aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. This fragrant base is going to infuse so much goodness into our chili.

3. Bloom the Spices:

   Now for the magic of the spices! Add your chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper directly to the pot with the beef and aromatics. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the spices coat the meat and vegetables. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step, known as “blooming” the spices, is absolutely essential. Heating the spices gently in the fat releases their essential oils, intensifying their flavors and making our chili incredibly aromatic and robust. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with the most amazing smells!

4. Incorporate the Tomato Base and Broth:

   Pour in the can of tomato sauce, the undrained diced tomatoes, and the tomato paste. Give everything a good stir to combine. The tomato paste, in particular, needs to be thoroughly mixed in to dissolve and distribute its concentrated flavor. Next, pour in the beef broth. Stir well again, making sure all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is cohesive. This combination of tomato products and broth creates the rich, thick, and tangy liquid base that defines our chili. It’s starting to look like a proper chili, isn’t it?

5. Add Optional Beans and Simmer:

   If you’re opting to include the kidney beans, now is the time to add them. Ensure they are thoroughly rinsed and drained before adding them to the pot. Stir them in gently. Bring the chili mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially (leaving a small gap for steam to escape), and let it simmer for at least 30-45 minutes. I often let mine go for an hour or even longer if I have the time, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen, creating a truly rich and harmonious chili. The goal is a thick, hearty chili consistency, perfect for our burritos. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash more beef broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

   After the chili has simmered and developed its flavors, give it a taste test. This is where you can truly make it your own! Does it need a little more salt? A pinch more cayenne for heat? Perhaps a touch more cumin? Don’t be shy about adjusting the seasonings until it tastes exactly how you like it. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take away. I usually add a tiny bit more salt and pepper here to really make the flavors sing. This perfectly seasoned chili is the heart of our easy Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito.

Assembling Your Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burritos

1. Prepare Your Workstation:

   Before you start rolling, get everything organized. Have your warm chili ready, your shredded cheddar cheese within reach, and your tortillas nearby. This will make the assembly process smooth and efficient, which is key to making this a truly easy Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito experience. I like to have a clean, flat surface to work on, such as a large cutting board or a clean countertop.

2. Warm the Tortillas:

   This is a critical step! Cold tortillas will tear and crack when you try to roll them, making for a messy burrito. Warm tortillas become soft and pliable, making them incredibly easy to fold and roll. You have a few options for warming:

   • Microwave: Stack 3-4 tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel, and microwave for 20-30 seconds. Repeat as needed.
   • Stovetop: Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Place one tortilla at a time in the hot pan for about 15-20 seconds per side, until it’s warmed through and slightly flexible, with a few light brown spots.
   • Oven: Wrap a stack of tortillas in aluminum foil and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

   Keep the warmed tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or foil to retain their heat and moisture while you assemble. I usually warm them in batches so they stay nice and pliable.

3. Fill Each Tortilla:

   Lay one warm tortilla flat on your workstation. Spoon about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the hot, rich chili down the center of the tortilla, leaving about an inch or so empty space around the edges. Don’t overfill! It’s tempting to cram in as much chili as possible, but too much filling makes rolling difficult and prone to bursting. We’re aiming for that perfectly balanced, easy-to-handle Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito.

4. Add the Cheese:

   Generously sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of your fresh shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the chili. The heat from the chili will immediately start to melt the cheese, creating that gooey, irresistible texture we all love in a chili cheese burrito. Using freshly shredded cheese here truly makes a difference in melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded options.

5. Roll the Burrito Like a Pro:

   This is where practice makes perfect, but it’s really quite simple once you get the hang of it.

   1. First, fold the left and right sides of the tortilla inward over the filling, creating two flaps that cover the ends of the chili and cheese.
   2. Next, grab the bottom edge of the tortilla (the edge closest to you) and pull it tightly up and over the filling, tucking it in snugly.
   3. Once tucked, continue to roll the burrito upward, away from you, keeping it as tight as possible as you go. The goal is a compact, cylindrical package that holds all that delicious chili and cheese securely inside.

   Repeat this process for all remaining tortillas and chili. You’ll be a burrito-rolling expert in no time!

6. Optional: Grill or Lightly Fry for Extra Goodness:

   For that extra authentic Taco Bell experience, or just to make your Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Easy even better, you can give them a quick grill or light fry.

   Heat a clean, non-stick skillet or a griddle over medium heat. You can add a tiny bit of butter or a very light spray of cooking oil if you like, but often a dry pan works fine as well. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are lightly golden brown and slightly crispy, and the cheese inside is fully melted and gooey. This step adds a wonderful textural contrast and makes the burrito feel more substantial and satisfying. I absolutely love that slight crisp on the outside!

7. Serve Immediately and Enjoy:

   These chili cheese burritos are best served hot, straight from the pan or once assembled. The melted cheese and warm, flavorful chili are at their peak. You can serve them as is, or with your favorite Taco Bell-inspired toppings like extra shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, some chopped green onions, or even a side of mild hot sauce. Get ready to enjoy the most satisfying, easy, and incredibly delicious Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito you’ve ever made right in your own kitchen!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re as excited as I am about the incredible potential waiting for you in your kitchen! This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an invitation to rediscover a beloved classic right from the comfort of your home, but with that special homemade touch that elevates it beyond expectations. What makes this recipe a true game-changer and an absolute must-try? It’s the perfect harmony of nostalgic flavors, the surprisingly simple preparation, and the sheer satisfaction of creating something so utterly delicious with your own hands. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can recreate that iconic taste, hitting all the right notes of savory chili, melty cheese, and soft tortilla. This isn’t just about satisfying a craving; it’s about making a memorable meal that feels both comforting and exciting. I truly believe that once you try this, you’ll wonder why you ever waited!

But the fun doesn’t stop once you’ve mastered the basic < strong > Copycat Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Easy < /strong >. Oh no, the possibilities for customization and expansion are practically endless! Think of this recipe as a fantastic foundation, a springboard for your own culinary creativity. For a heartier meal, why not serve your burritos alongside a fresh, crisp side salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness? Or, if you’re looking to make it a more substantial platter, a side of perfectly seasoned Mexican rice or some refried beans would be absolutely divine. Don’t hesitate to get adventurous with your toppings, too. A dollop of cool sour cream or plain Greek yogurt can add a wonderful creamy contrast, while a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or diced green onions brings a burst of freshness. If you like a little extra kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce or some finely minced jalapeños (fresh or pickled!) would be fantastic additions. For those who love an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice over the finished burrito – it brightens everything up beautifully!

Creative Serving & Variations:

• Deconstructed Bowl: Turn your burrito into a bowl! Layer the chili and cheese over a bed of rice, lettuce, and your favorite toppings for a gluten-friendly option.

• Chili Cheese Fries or Nachos: Use the delicious chili as a topping for crispy fries or a mountain of tortilla chips. Just load it up with cheese and pop it under the broiler for a minute or two until bubbly.

• Breakfast Burrito Twist: Add scrambled eggs into the mix for a unique breakfast burrito experience that carries those amazing chili cheese flavors into your morning.

• Spicy Upgrade: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder into the chili for an extra layer of heat. You could also use pepper jack cheese for an added kick.

• Vegetarian Friendly: Easily adapt the chili recipe by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based crumble or a hearty mix of finely diced mushrooms and lentils, ensuring everyone can enjoy this fantastic flavor.

So, now it’s your turn! I’ve shared my secrets, offered some tantalizing variations, and hopefully, ignited a spark of culinary excitement in you. I truly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into making this wonderfully satisfying recipe. You’ll be so proud of what you create, and your taste buds will thank you profusely. This isn’t just about making food; it’s about making memories, whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun game day snack, or a casual get-together with loved ones. I absolutely can’t wait to hear all about your experience. Did you add a unique twist? Was it an instant hit with your family? Please don’t be shy – come back and share your thoughts, your photos, and your triumphs in the comments section below. Your feedback and creative ideas inspire me and countless other home cooks who are looking for that next delicious adventure. Happy cooking, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade chili cheese burrito you’ve ever tasted!

Copycat Taco Bell Beef Chili Cheese Burrito

Recreate the iconic, savory delight of the Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito at home with this easy recipe. Enjoy a unique blend of seasoned, hearty beef chili and melty cheddar cheese wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. This comforting copycat dish is surprisingly simple to master and perfect for banishing cravings anytime.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
10 Minutes

Total Time
30 Minutes

Servings
10-12 burritos

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed & drained (optional)
• 10-12 medium flour tortillas (8-inch)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until thoroughly browned (7-10 minutes). Drain excess fat.
2. Step 2
   Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3
   Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to release aromas.
4. Step 4
   Pour in tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well to combine. Add rinsed kidney beans if using. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 30-45 minutes (or longer) for flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
5. Step 5
   Taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, or other spices as needed. The chili should be thick and hearty.
6. Step 6
   Warm flour tortillas using a microwave, stovetop, or oven until soft and pliable. Keep them warm and covered.
7. Step 7
   Lay a warm tortilla flat. Spoon 1/4 to 1/3 cup of hot chili down the center, leaving space around the edges. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
8. Step 8
   Fold the left and right sides of the tortilla inward over the filling. Then, pull the bottom edge tightly up and over the filling, tucking it snugly. Continue rolling upward to create a compact burrito. Repeat for remaining tortillas.
9. Step 9
   For an authentic touch, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place burritos seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted. Serve immediately and enjoy hot.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.