I bring you a homemade version of the viral Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burrito—the perfect union of spicy beef, creamy nacho cheese, rice, and chipotle sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla and grilled with melty cheese on the outside.

Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s ready in under 30 minutes, uses everyday pantry ingredients, and is fully customizable (I can swap proteins, tweak the heat, or even go plant-based). It satisfies cravings faster—and tastier—than any drive-thru.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

I use:

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or my homemade blend)

  • 1 cup cooked white rice

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • ½ cup nacho cheese sauce

  • ¼ cup chipotle sauce (or smoky mayo/spicy ranch)

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella

  • 4 large flour tortillas

directions

  1. I brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, then drain any excess fat.

  2. I stir in the taco seasoning and a bit of water, simmering until the sauce thickens slightly.

  3. I spread each tortilla with nacho cheese sauce, then add seasoned beef, rice, chipotle sauce, sour cream, and a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.

  4. I roll each tortilla tightly.

  5. I heat a skillet over medium heat, sprinkle some cheese directly onto it, and place a burrito seam-side down so the cheese melts and crisps, creating a golden crust.

  6. I carefully flip the burrito onto more cheese to crisp the other side similarly.

  7. I repeat with remaining burritos and serve them warm, optionally with extra chipotle or dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

I typically make 4 burritos. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking takes around 15 minutes, so I’m done in about 25 minutes total.

Variations

  • I can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or seasoned jackfruit for a vegetarian twist.

  • I may add beans, veggies, or extra heat with jalapeños.

  • For dairy-free versions, I use plant-based cheese and sour cream alternatives.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers wrapped tightly or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer using a skillet over medium heat—this brings back that crispy cheese crust beautifully and warms the inside without making it soggy.

FAQs

What if I don’t have nacho cheese sauce?

I can use melted cheddar or a queso blend instead—anything creamy and cheesy works to bind the fillings.

Can I freeze these burritos?

Yes—I wrap them individually in foil and freeze for up to a month. When reheating, I thaw in the fridge, then crisp in a skillet for best texture.

How do I make it less spicy?

I reduce or omit the chipotle sauce and choose a mild taco seasoning or use just half a packet.

Can I make a vegetarian version?

Absolutely—I swap the beef with seasoned beans or spiced tofu and use plant-based cheese to keep it hearty and delicious.

What sides go well with this burrito?

I like pairing it with salsa, guacamole, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad—something fresh or crunchy to cut through the richness.

Conclusion

I hope this grilled cheese burrito becomes one of my go-tos when I want something indulgent, quick, and crowd-pleasing. It’s fun to make, flexible to adapt, and so satisfying with that melty, crispy exterior.

Print
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Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)

Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito (Taco Bell Copycat)


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  • Author: Evee
  • Total Time: 40 minutes to 4 hours (including marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce that caramelizes beautifully, delivering a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors.


Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

1/4 cup honey

3 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp yellow mustard

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour in half the marinade (reserve the rest for basting) and refrigerate 30 minutes to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
  4. Grill chicken 5–7 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade during the last few minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Transfer to a plate, rest a few minutes, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve.

Notes

Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Mix in rosemary or thyme for an herbal note.

For oven-baked chicken, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

Marinate cubed chicken and grill on skewers for faster cooking.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 270
  • Sugar: 13g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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