Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe

Nothing beats the satisfying warmth and bold flavors of a homemade classic, and the Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe is just the ticket for that. This beloved fast-food favorite transforms into a hearty, comforting dish with a rich, spiced chili wrapped in soft flour tortillas and layered with gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering snack, this recipe delivers that perfect blend of savory beef, tender beans, and spicy goodness with every bite. Trust me, once you try this Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe made from scratch, you’ll be hooked on recreating that crave-worthy experience right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one adds its own flavor, texture, or color to build the perfect balance of hearty chili and melty cheese wrapped in soft tortillas.

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor): Provides juicy, rich meatiness that anchors the chili.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that enhances all other spices.
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped: Offers a fresh, slightly crisp bite and vibrant color.
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Gives hearty texture and protein.
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Adds mild creaminess and variety to the beans.
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Creates a rich, saucy base for the chili.
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained: Introduces bold, zesty flavor with a bit of heat.
• 1 cup beef broth: Enhances depth and helps achieve the perfect chili consistency.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder: The star spice that brings warmth and classic chili flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cumin: Adds earthy, smoky notes that complement the meat perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides subtle smokiness without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts garlic flavor for extra aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Keeps the onion flavor bright even after cooking.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste): Gives just the right kick of heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds herbal complexity to the chili.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds depth): A surprising twist that enhances the overall richness.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance all flavors.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For browning the beef and sautéing veggies.
• 6 large flour tortillas (burrito size): Soft and flexible to wrap all the delicious fillings.
• 1 (8 ounce) package shredded cheddar cheese (or blend with Monterey Jack): The melty, gooey cheese that makes the burrito irresistible.

How to Make Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart into small pieces with a spoon. This step is crucial because finely crumbled beef ensures a consistent texture in the chili. Once browned, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

To the skillet with the beef, throw in the finely chopped yellow onion and green bell pepper. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften nicely, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. These veggies add an irresistible aroma and a touch of natural sweetness that balances the chili spices perfectly.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Spices

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and the optional ground cinnamon. Cook this spicy mixture for about a minute while stirring constantly. This quick toasting of spices is essential to wake up their flavors and release that smoky, savory aroma that really makes this chili sing.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in the tomato sauce, the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies, and the beef broth. Then add the drained and rinsed kidney and pinto beans. Stir everything thoroughly so all the ingredients are well combined and the chili base starts to come together.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

Bring your chili mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for at least one hour, stirring every so often, or up to two hours if you have the time. The magic of chili is in the slow melding of flavors over time, so patience here makes all the difference. If it thickens too much, simply add a splash more beef broth to loosen it up to a thick but saucy consistency.

Step 6: Season to Taste

After simmering, give your chili a taste test and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or extra spices. This is when you fine-tune the balance of heat and aroma to your liking, making sure your Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe hits every flavor note just right.

Step 7: Warm the Tortillas

Warm your large flour tortillas until they’re soft and pliable—either in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Pliable tortillas are key to rolling up the burritos neatly without tearing.

Step 8: Fill the Burritos

Lay a warm tortilla flat and spoon around half a cup of your homemade chili right in the center. Top generously with about a quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Be careful not to overfill, or you might struggle rolling everything up.

Step 9: Roll the Burritos

Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling and then roll it upward from the bottom tightly, tucking the chili and cheese in as you go. The goal is to create a secure wrap that won’t spill when you bite in.

Step 10: Serve Immediately

Serve your chili cheese burritos right away when the cheese is beautifully melted and the fillings are warm. If you need a short wait, wrapping them in foil keeps them cozy until ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes elevates the experience. Think crisp shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for contrast. A sprinkle of chopped green onions or cilantro adds brightness, while jalapeño slices bring an extra kick. These toppings breathe life and freshness into every bite.

Side Dishes

Complement your burritos with classic sides like crunchy tortilla chips and fresh guacamole, or a simple Spanish rice to soak up any leftover chili. A tangy slaw or a crisp salad balances the richness and adds a refreshing twist to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving for a casual party, slice the burritos into pinwheels for fun finger food. You can also turn leftovers into layered burrito bowls by layering the chili, cheese, and toppings over rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. The Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe is wonderfully versatile for presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chili in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Keep tortillas and cheese separate until ready to assemble the next day to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap assembled burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. For just the chili, freeze in meal-sized portions ready to thaw and reheat.

Reheating

Reheat burritos in the oven at 350°F (175°C) wrapped in foil for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melty again. For chili alone, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of beef for the Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well. Just be careful not to overcook it, and you might want to add a splash of oil during cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.

What can I add to make the burritos spicier?

To amp up the heat, increase the cayenne pepper or toss in some chopped fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers when cooking the chili. Adding a hot sauce drizzle before wrapping works wonders too.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with additional beans or textured vegetable protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Load up on veggies for hearty texture, and season generously with spices.

How do I keep the tortillas from tearing when rolling the burrito?

Warming the tortillas until they are soft and pliable is key. Avoid overheating, which can make them brittle. Also, don’t overfill the burrito—less is more for a tight, neat roll.

Can I prepare the chili in advance for a party?

Definitely! Chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate overnight, then reheat slowly before assembling your burritos.

Final Thoughts

This Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining classic, bold flavors with a homemade touch that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a casual night in or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfy hunger. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!

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