Name: The Recipe: Copycat Chili Cheese Burrito
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp salt; 2 cups water; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water (for cornstarch mixture); 1 (16 oz) can refried beans; 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste (about 6 tbsp); 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 10 (10-inch) flour tortillas

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Who doesn’t love the combination of gooey cheese, hearty chili, and the satisfying crunch of a warm burrito? The Copycat Chili Cheese Burrito is exactly what you’ve been craving, bringing that fast food favorite right into your kitchen. The best part? It’s way easier to make than you might think, and you’ll end up with a burrito so good that you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with takeout. Trust me, you’re going to love this one. It’s cheesy, comforting, and totally customizable to fit your mood. Let’s dig in!

Why You’ll Love Copycat Chili Cheese Burrito

This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re craving something quick and comforting after a long day, or looking for a fun dish to serve at your next get-together, this chili cheese burrito is the way to go. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Versatile: Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a fun party dish. You can make a batch of these burritos for a casual get-together, and I guarantee they’ll be gone in no time.
Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are super affordable and easy to find, so no need to worry about breaking the bank. This dish is simple, satisfying, and wallet-friendly.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious homemade burrito on your plate. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is totally foolproof.
Customizable: Want to spice things up? Add some jalapeños or hot sauce. Prefer it mild? Stick with the classic cheese and chili combo. You can make this burrito as simple or as bold as you like.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it to kids, adults, or everyone in between, this dish will hit all the right spots. It’s a universal favorite, guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this burrito—simple ingredients that come together to create something totally delicious. Let’s break it down:

Flour Tortillas: The foundation of the burrito. Soft, warm tortillas are the perfect vessel for holding all the goodness inside. They’re sturdy enough to contain all the filling without falling apart.

Chili: The heart of this burrito. A rich, hearty chili made with ground beef, beans, and spices, this chili gives the burrito its savory depth and bold flavor. If you’re short on time, you can even use canned chili for a quicker option.

Cheddar Cheese: This cheese is the star of the show when it comes to the cheesy goodness that melts and oozes all over the chili. It’s perfect for creating that gooey, indulgent texture you crave.

Onions: Diced onions add a slight crunch and sweetness to balance out the richness of the chili and cheese. They’re optional but totally recommended!

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a tangy contrast to the chili’s heat and the cheese’s richness. It’s the perfect finishing touch.

Optional Toppings: Feel free to add things like shredded lettuce, tomatoes, or even sliced jalapeños to bring some freshness or extra heat to the burrito. You can customize it to your liking!

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! These chili cheese burritos come together in just a few simple steps:

1. Warm the Tortillas
Start by warming your flour tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they’re soft and pliable. This helps the tortillas roll up without tearing.

2. Heat the Chili
If you’re making homemade chili, go ahead and cook it in a pot over medium heat. If you’re using canned chili, simply heat it up in a saucepan until it’s nice and hot. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t burn.

3. Assemble the Burritos
Once the chili is heated and your tortillas are ready, it’s time to assemble! Place a generous scoop of chili in the center of each tortilla, then sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar cheese over the chili. If you’re using diced onions, add those on top as well.

4. Roll Up the Burritos
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly from the bottom. You want to make sure everything is tucked in so the filling stays inside.

5. Serve and Enjoy
Top your burrito with a dollop of sour cream and any other toppings you like—shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Then sit back and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Copycat Chili Cheese Burrito

These burritos are hearty enough to be served on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Fresh Salads: A crisp, tangy salad dressed with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy burrito.
Rice: Serve with a side of seasoned rice or Spanish rice for a more filling meal. The flavors complement each other beautifully.
Sautéed Vegetables: Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even zucchini make for a tasty and healthy side dish that adds color and crunch.
Tortilla Chips: A side of crunchy tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole will give you that extra texture and flavor you crave with a burrito.
Mexican Street Corn: If you’re feeling extra adventurous, serve your burrito alongside some delicious Mexican street corn for a truly festive meal.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you make the most out of this recipe:

Make It Spicy: Want to kick things up a notch? Add some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the chili before assembling the burritos.
Use Leftover Chili: If you have leftover chili from another meal, this is the perfect way to use it up. Just heat it up and assemble the burritos!
Add More Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, don’t be shy! Add extra cheddar cheese inside the burrito or even on top for a cheesy crust.
Veggie Version: Want a vegetarian version? Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or just load up on extra beans and vegetables.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chili and store it in the fridge ahead of time, making this a quick meal to throw together when you’re short on time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A1: Absolutely! You can use Monterey Jack, queso blanco, or any cheese that melts well. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly depending on your choice.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can make the chili in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, just warm it up and assemble the burritos.

Q3: Can I freeze these burritos?
A3: Yes, you can! Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q4: Can I use a different type of meat?
A4: Of course! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork work great in this recipe. You can also skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian option.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftover chili cheese burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q6: Can I add other toppings to the burrito?
A6: Absolutely! You can add toppings like guacamole, salsa, lettuce, or even a sprinkle of cilantro to add extra flavor and freshness.

Q7: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A7: Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas, and you’re good to go! You can also check your chili to ensure it’s gluten-free if you’re using canned.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat a frozen burrito?
A8: To reheat a frozen burrito, unwrap it and microwave for 2-3 minutes, or heat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Q9: Can I make this recipe without sour cream?
A9: Absolutely! If you don’t like sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or leave it off entirely. It’s still delicious without it!

Q10: How do I make the chili thicker?
A10: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can let it simmer for longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.

Conclusion

The Copycat Chili Cheese Burrito is everything you love about comfort food: cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal, a party, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, it’s super customizable to suit your tastes, and leftovers (if you have any!) are just as delicious. So go ahead, roll up those burritos, and enjoy a cheesy bite of heaven!