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If you ever craved that classic Taco Bell Chili Cheese Burrito but wanted to skip the drive-thru, this homemade version brings all the gooey, spicy flavor right to your kitchen These burritos are bursting with seasoned beef silky beans and melty cheese all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla and perfect for busy weeknights or game day snacking
My family asks for these on movie night and I love that each person can add their favorite toppings or fold them just the way they like I swear the kitchen always smells like my favorite taco spot when I make these
Ingredients
- Ground beef: provides hearty protein and classic flavor go for fresher beef with bright red color and little excess fat
- Yellow onion: sweetens the chili base I look for firm onions with papery skin
- Chili powder: brings warmth and signature depth use a good quality powder for best results
- Cayenne pepper: adds a subtle heat adjust to taste or omit for milder burritos
- Salt: enhances all the flavors choose sea salt or kosher if possible
- Water: lets the flavors meld and helps with saucy texture filtered is best if available
- Cornstarch: thickens the filling effortlessly make sure it’s lump free
- Refried beans: make the filling creamy and satisfying try to select low sodium canned beans or make your own
- Tomato paste: adds richness and the right hint of tang concentrate from a tube works best
- Cheddar cheese: delivers that gooey melt opt for extra sharp for the classic Taco Bell vibe or your favorite melting cheese
- Flour tortillas: wrap everything up soft and tender fresh tortillas warm up beautifully and hold the filling well
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onions:
- In your largest skillet set over medium high heat toss in the ground beef and diced onion Stir often until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent which usually takes about eight minutes Drain away any extra fat This step lays your flavor foundation
- Spice and Simmer:
- Sprinkle the chili powder cayenne pepper and salt over the meat mixture Stir until the beef is thoroughly coated and the spices are fragrant Pour in two cups of water Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and keep stirring to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom
- Thicken the Mixture:
- In a small bowl blend cornstarch with the remaining two tablespoons of water Stir until completely smooth then drizzle this slurry into the simmering skillet It only takes another minute or two for the sauce to thicken and get glossy This guarantees every bite is saucy not runny
- Fold in Beans and Tomato Paste:
- Spoon in the whole can of refried beans and the tomato paste Stir gently until the mixture is uniform and smooth Allow the filling to warm through so that everything melds together The refried beans pull the mixture into that nostalgic spreadable texture
- Melt in the Cheese:
- Scatter in one and a half cups of cheddar cheese Stir until it fully melts and combines This step seals together the chili cheese flavor and keeps things wonderfully gooey
- Assemble the Burritos:
- Warm the flour tortillas briefly in a microwave to make them pliable Lay one out flat Sprinkle a little reserved cheddar in the center Add a generous scoop about a quarter to half cup of the meat filling Fold the sides in and tightly roll up the tortilla creating a snug log Do this for each burrito
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the burritos hot with your favorite dips like salsa or sour cream Pile on any extra toppings you love or just dig in while they are melty and warm
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My favorite ingredient here is the cheddar cheese because nothing beats that stretch when you pull apart a fresh burrito My kids love assembling their own burritos everyone gets involved and the table is always lively and full of laughter
Storage Tips
Chili Cheese Burritos are perfect for make ahead meals Once cooled wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight bag in the fridge They reheat beautifully in a microwave or oven For longer storage layer wrapped burritos in the freezer where they will keep up to three months
Ingredient Swaps
If you want a leaner option ground turkey swaps nicely for beef For heat lovers a few chopped jalapenos or pepper jack cheese can boost the spice No refried beans Try mashed pinto beans or black beans for a slightly different taste
Serving Suggestions
These burritos go well with simple sides like Mexican rice corn salad or guacamole You can also cut them in half for party snack trays Try topping with diced tomatoes chopped scallions or a drizzle of hot sauce for even more flavor
The Burrito’s Roots
This dish is inspired by the Taco Bell classic which became a cult favorite in the nineties It fuses spicy chili the heart of Tex Mex fare with the universal appeal of a cheesy burrito The homemade version captures nostalgia and lets you tweak every detail
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious variation.
- → What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but you can use mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
- → Can I freeze these burritos?
Yes, let them cool completely, wrap individually in plastic, and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- → How do I reheat frozen burritos?
Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, ensuring they're heated through.
- → Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or even corn to enhance texture and flavor.