Cheesy Quesarito: The Ultimate Taco Bell Copycat Recipe

Name: Cheesy Quesarito
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef; 0.25 cup Water; 1 tablespoon Taco Seasoning; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 0.25 cup Onion, chopped; 1.5 cups Uncooked White Rice; 2 cups Chicken Broth; 1 cup Chunky Salsa; 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt; 1 teaspoon Cumin; 0.5 cup Sour Cream; 2 teaspoons Chipotle Sauce from can of Adobo Peppers; 1 teaspoon Chili Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Sugar; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Cumin; 0.5 teaspoon Paprika; 0.25 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 0.25 teaspoon Onion Powder; 8 units Flour Tortillas, burrito size; 1 cup Nacho Cheese Sauce; 2 cups Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend; 0.5 cup Sour Cream; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

Introduction to Cheesy Quesarito

Are you craving the deliciousness of Taco Bell’s Cheesy Quesarito but don’t want to step out of your home? You’re in luck! This guide will walk you through making this cheesy, meaty, and satisfying dish right in your own kitchen. It’s an easy, comforting meal that will impress your family and friends while satisfying your taste buds. Get ready to enjoy a homemade version of this fast-food favorite!

A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Quesarito Journey

Growing up, fast food was a treat that came with weekend adventures. Taco Bell was always a go-to for late-night cravings and fun outings with friends. When I first tried the Cheesy Quesarito, I was hooked! The combination of cheesy goodness and seasoned meat wrapped in a warm tortilla was unforgettable. Now, I can recreate that joy in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you!

What Makes This Cheesy Quesarito Recipe Special?

This Cheesy Quesarito recipe combines layers of flavors and textures that make it incredibly satisfying. The secret lies in the perfectly seasoned taco meat, the fluffy Spanish rice, and the creamy chipotle sauce that ties everything together. Plus, it’s customizable! You can adjust the spice level, add your favorite toppings, or even make it vegetarian by swapping out the meat. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience!

The Full Cheesy Quesarito Recipe

Ingredients

For the Taco Meat:
1 pound Ground Beef
1/4 cup Water
1 Tablespoon Taco Seasoning
For the Spanish Rice:
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1/4 cup Onion, chopped
1 1/2 cups Uncooked White Rice
2 cups Chicken Broth
1 cup Chunky Salsa
1 teaspoon Garlic Salt
1 teaspoon Cumin
For the Chipotle Sauce:
1/2 cup Sour Cream
2 teaspoons Chipotle Sauce from can of Adobo Peppers
1 teaspoon Chili Powder
1/2 teaspoon Sugar
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Cumin
1/2 teaspoon Paprika
1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
For the Quesaritos:
8 Flour Tortillas, burrito size
1 cup Nacho Cheese Sauce
2 cups Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend
1/2 cup Sour Cream
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

Instructions

For the Taco Meat: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Heat for 3-5 minutes until well mixed and heated through. Set aside.
For the Spanish Rice: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add the uncooked white rice and cook until it starts to brown, stirring frequently. Then, stir in chicken broth, chunky salsa, garlic salt, and cumin. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through. Set aside.
For the Chipotle Sauce: In a small bowl, combine all chipotle sauce ingredients. Whisk together until smooth. Set aside.
For the Quesaritos: Microwave tortillas wrapped in damp paper towels for 30 seconds to warm them up. Warm the nacho cheese sauce in the microwave for about 30 seconds as well.
Spread the nacho cheese sauce on 4 tortillas, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the nacho cheese. Place the remaining tortillas on top and press gently to stick them together.
On the second tortilla, layer taco meat and Spanish rice.
Drizzle chipotle sauce and sour cream on top of the meat and rice layers.
Fold in the sides of the tortillas and roll them up tightly to form burritos.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each burrito for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Cheesy Quesarito!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Quesarito

These Cheesy Quesaritos are perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends and family. Serve them with additional sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side for dipping. For those who love extra spice, consider adding jalapeños or more chipotle sauce to the filling. You can also make them vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with black beans or grilled vegetables. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings a new flavor profile to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Quesarito

Can I make Cheesy Quesaritos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before cooking. Store the meat, rice, and sauces in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Cheesy Quesaritos?
Absolutely! Once assembled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.
What can I serve with Cheesy Quesaritos?
Serve with a side of tortilla chips, a fresh salad, or some Mexican corn on the cob for a complete meal!