Name: Copycat Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe: Beefy & Cheesy!
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef; 1 packet (1 oz / 28g) Taco Seasoning Mix; 1/4 cup water; 2 tsp chili powder (for homemade seasoning); 1.5 tsp ground cumin (for homemade seasoning); 1 tsp smoked paprika (for homemade seasoning); 1/2 tsp onion powder (for homemade seasoning); 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for homemade seasoning); 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for homemade seasoning); 1/2 tsp dried oregano (for homemade seasoning); 1/2 tsp salt (for homemade seasoning); 1/4 tsp black pepper (for homemade seasoning); 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1.5 cups whole milk, warmed; 8 oz (225g) Velveeta, cubed; 4 oz (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1-2 tbsp pickled jalapeño juice; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; Pinch of cayenne pepper; Salt to taste (for cheese sauce); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; 1-2 tbsp adobo sauce; 1 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; Pinch of salt (for chipotle sauce); 1 cup long-grain white rice (optional)

Taco Bell Quesarito – what an iconic creation! For those who’ve experienced the sheer delight of this layered masterpiece, you know there’s simply nothing quite like it. It’s not just a burrito; it’s an innovation, a culinary mashup that brilliantly combines the best elements of a quesadilla and a burrito into one glorious package. I distinctly remember the buzz when this item first hit the menu, quickly becoming a fan favorite for its audacious take on classic Mexican-inspired fast food.

The magic of the Quesarito lies in its ingenious construction. Picture this: a seasoned beef or chicken filling, zesty rice, creamy sour cream, and a rich, flavorful cheese sauce, all snugly wrapped inside a grilled cheese quesadilla, which in turn is encased by a soft flour tortilla. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors – the crispy, cheesy outer layer yielding to the tender, savory interior. This harmonious blend of cheesy, meaty, and comforting ingredients is precisely why the Taco Bell Quesarito has garnered such a passionate following. It’s the ultimate comfort food for many, offering a satisfying, hearty meal that perfectly hits all the right notes. Today, I’m thrilled to guide you through recreating this legendary fast-food experience right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Seasoned Ground Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (80/20 recommended for optimal flavor and texture)
- 1 packet (1 oz / 28g) Taco Seasoning Mix (I often use store-bought for convenience, but feel free to make your own with the recipe below!)
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix:
  - 2 tsp chili powder
  - 1.5 tsp ground cumin
  - 1 tsp smoked paprika
  - 1/2 tsp onion powder
  - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred level of heat)
  - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  - 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  - 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups whole milk, warmed (this helps prevent lumps!)
- 8 oz (225g) Velveeta, cut into small cubes (essential for that classic gooey texture, trust me on this!)
- 4 oz (115g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (I always recommend shredding your own for better melting)
- 1-2 tbsp pickled jalapeño juice (from a jar, for that signature tangy kick)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle warmth)
- Salt to taste
For the Zesty Chipotle Sauce:
- 1/2 cup good quality mayonnaise
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (from a can, adjust based on your spice tolerance – start with two!)
- 1-2 tbsp adobo sauce (from the same can as the peppers, for smoky depth)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, squeezed right before using
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Cilantro-Lime Rice (Optional, but Highly Recommended for Authenticity!):
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (like Basmati or Jasmine)
- 1.75 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water, but broth adds more flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup finely diced white onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish, if you like!)
- 1-2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1 small lime)
- Salt to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch “Burrito” size – you’ll use two per Quesarito, so this makes 4 delicious Quesaritos!)
- Cooking spray or a small amount of neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) for grilling

Equipment You’ll Need:

To make your Quesarito journey smooth and enjoyable, here are a few tools I find indispensable:

Large skillet (for beef)
Medium saucepan (for cheese sauce)
Small saucepan with a lid (for rice)
Blender or food processor (for chipotle sauce)
Large griddle or a non-stick frying pan (for cooking and assembly)
Whisk (for the cheese sauce)
Spatula or tongs

Let’s Get Cooking! – Preparation Phase:

Okay, friends, let’s dive into making each fantastic component that will eventually come together to form our amazing Taco Bell Quesarito. I like to prepare everything in stages, so the assembly is a breeze.

Step 1: Preparing the Seasoned Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon or a meat chopper. Cook until the beef is thoroughly browned, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes.
This next part is crucial: Drain any excess grease from the skillet very thoroughly. A greasy Quesarito is not what we’re aiming for! You can use a spoon, tilt the pan, or even transfer the beef to a colander lined with paper towels for a super efficient drain.
Return the drained beef to the skillet. If you’re using a store-bought taco seasoning packet, add the seasoning mix along with 1/4 cup of water. If you’re using my homemade blend, add all the spices listed under “Optional Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix” to the beef along with the water.
Stir everything together well, ensuring the beef is evenly coated. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated and the beef is wonderfully fragrant and perfectly seasoned. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Set aside.

Step 2: Crafting the Creamy Nacho Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
Whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a “roux.” This will cook out the raw flour taste and form the base for our luscious cheese sauce. It should look like a pale paste.
Now for the liquid: Gradually whisk in the warmed whole milk, a little bit at a time, until completely smooth. Continue whisking as the sauce thickens. Keep the heat at medium-low.
Add the cubed Velveeta and the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the saucepan. Continue whisking gently until both cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This takes a few minutes, so be patient!
Stir in the pickled jalapeño juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk well to combine.
Taste your glorious cheese sauce. If it needs a little more zing, add another splash of jalapeño juice. Adjust salt to your preference. Keep warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally, or set aside. If it thickens too much, you can whisk in a tiny splash of milk to loosen it up.

Step 3: Whipping Up the Zesty Chipotle Sauce

This sauce adds a fantastic smoky, spicy, and creamy element to our Quesarito!

In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, adobo sauce, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
Taste the sauce. If you prefer more heat, add another half or whole chipotle pepper and blend again. If it’s too thick, a tiny splash of water or milk can thin it. Set aside.

Step 4: Cooking the Flavorful Cilantro-Lime Rice (If Using)

While optional, I truly believe this rice elevates your homemade Taco Bell Quesarito to another level of deliciousness, so I highly recommend it!

Rinse your rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps prevent stickiness. Drain well.
In a small saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced white onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in the rinsed and drained rice, cooking for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges of the rice grains start to look slightly translucent.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed. Resist the urge to lift the lid!
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become perfectly fluffy.
Remove the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, then gently stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and fresh lime juice. Season with salt to taste. Set aside.

Assembling Your Ultimate Taco Bell Quesarito:

This is where the magic happens and our individual components come together to form the legendary Taco Bell Quesarito!

Step 5: The Cheese-Crusted Outer Tortilla

Heat a large griddle or a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat. You want it warm enough to melt cheese but not so hot that it burns the tortilla quickly. Lightly spray with cooking spray or brush with a tiny bit of oil.
Place one large flour tortilla on the heated griddle. Immediately spread about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of your warm Nacho Cheese Sauce evenly over the entire surface of this tortilla. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes.
Now for the ingenious part of the Quesarito: Carefully place a second large flour tortilla directly on top of the cheese-covered tortilla, pressing down gently so it adheres. The cheese will act as a delicious glue and create that signature crispy, cheesy outer layer. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the bottom tortilla is lightly golden and the cheese in between is bubbly and melted, creating a bond.
Once the tortillas are bonded by the cheese and the bottom is lightly golden, carefully flip this double-tortilla creation over. Now the cheese-side is facing up, ready for our delicious fillings!

Step 6: Layering the Inner Tortilla

With our cheese-crusted outer layer ready, it’s time to build the core of our Quesarito!

On the newly flipped, cheese-covered tortilla (the one now facing up), immediately spread a generous layer (about 2 tablespoons) of your homemade Chipotle Sauce. Spread it evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
Next, add a healthy scoop (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup) of your seasoned ground beef down the center of the tortilla. Don’t overfill, or it will be hard to roll!
If you’re using the Cilantro-Lime Rice, now’s the time to add a similar amount (1/4 to 1/3 cup) right on top of the beef.
To ensure every bite is cheesy, drizzle a little more of your warm Nacho Cheese Sauce over the beef and rice. This adds extra moisture and that craveable gooeyness.

Step 7: The Grand Fold and Grill

Time to wrap it up! Starting from one side, carefully fold the edge of the tortilla over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Then, fold in the two shorter sides, followed by rolling it up tightly from the bottom. You want a snug burrito-style wrap. This might take a little practice, but you’ll get the hang of it!
Once rolled, leave the Taco Bell Quesarito seam-side down on the griddle. Continue to grill over medium-low heat for about 2-3 minutes, until the bottom is beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy.
Carefully flip the Quesarito and grill the other side for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring it’s evenly heated through and has a nice golden crust all around. The goal is to get it warm, gooey, and with a satisfying crunch on the outside.
Repeat the entire process (steps 5-7) for the remaining tortillas and fillings to create your other Quesaritos.
Once cooked to perfection, transfer your homemade Quesarito to a cutting board. I like to let it rest for a minute or two before slicing to allow the fillings to set slightly.
Slice your Taco Bell Quesarito in half diagonally, just like the pros do it! This makes it easier to handle and enjoy all those magnificent layers.

Tips for the Perfect Quesarito:

Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to cram in all the delicious fillings, but resist! An overstuffed Quesarito is much harder to roll and can burst during grilling.
Keep Sauces Warm: Ensure your Nacho Cheese Sauce stays warm and fluid. If it thickens, a splash of milk and a gentle whisk over low heat will bring it back.
Gentle Heat for Grilling: Low to medium-low heat is your friend here. It allows the cheese to melt and the tortilla to crisp without burning. Patience is key!
Tortilla Warmth: You can slightly warm your tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before starting the assembly. This makes them more pliable and less prone to cracking when folding.
Fresh Shredded Cheese: While Velveeta is non-negotiable for that specific texture in the sauce, for any other cheese additions (like if you wanted to sprinkle some on the beef), always shred your own from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.
Spice Level Customization: Feel free to play with the heat! Add more cayenne to the beef or cheese, or extra chipotles to the sauce for a fiery kick. Conversely, reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Make Ahead Components: The seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, chipotle sauce, and cilantro-lime rice can all be made a day in advance and stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just gently reheat them before assembly!

Serving Suggestions:

Your homemade Taco Bell Quesarito is truly a meal in itself, but if you’re like me and love a full spread, here are some ideas for what to serve alongside it:

A simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
Extra pickled jalapeños for those who crave more heat.
A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a cooling contrast.
Freshly made guacamole or sliced avocado.
A crisp, cold soda or a refreshing agua fresca to complete the experience!
Don’t forget some tortilla chips for dipping any leftover Nacho Cheese Sauce – it’s too good to waste!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, folks! We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe is one of the most satisfying and crave-worthy dishes you can whip up in your own kitchen. This recipe isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s about crafting an experience, a symphony of textures and flavors that will undoubtedly leave you wanting more. From the first bite of that perfectly toasted tortilla, cradling a molten layer of cheese, to the hearty, seasoned filling and the vibrant, fresh toppings, every element plays a crucial role in making this dish an absolute triumph. It’s the kind of meal that brings smiles, fosters good conversation, and satisfies even the most intense food cravings. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this balance, ensuring that each component contributes to a harmonious whole, making it simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for a gathering.

What makes this particular recipe a true standout, a culinary endeavor I wholeheartedly encourage you to undertake? It’s the ingenious layering that sets it apart. Imagine the comforting warmth of a cheesy quesadilla, perfectly crisp on the outside, acting as the delicious embrace for a soft, warm tortilla packed with a deeply flavorful filling. This dual-tortilla approach isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a stroke of genius that adds incredible structural integrity, ensuring every single bite is a delightful combination of soft, crunchy, cheesy, and savory. The homemade seasoned meat, whether you opt for beef, chicken, or a plant-based alternative, elevates the entire experience far beyond anything you might get from a fast-food drive-thru. We’re talking about fresh, vibrant ingredients, cooked with care, infused with spices that sing on your palate. It’s about bringing that incredible, complex flavor profile right to your dining table, without any artificial fuss. This is truly comfort food at its finest, elevated and personalized.

Now, let’s talk about how to truly make this dish your own, or even better, how to serve it up for an unforgettable meal. While it’s certainly robust enough to be a meal in itself, pairing it with a few simple sides can transform it into a grand feast. I love serving it alongside a vibrant, zesty cilantro-lime rice – the refreshing acidity cuts through the richness beautifully. A simple side of black beans, simmered with a touch of garlic and cumin, also makes for a fantastic accompaniment, adding extra protein and fiber. And for those who enjoy a bit of freshness, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a generous dollop of homemade guacamole and a side of salsa fresca can complete the picture. Don’t forget the beverages! A cold Mexican soda, a classic Horchata, or even a crisp lager can be the perfect palate cleanser and companion to this flavorful creation. Think about movie nights, game days, or even a casual backyard barbecue – this dish is versatile enough for almost any occasion where delicious, satisfying food is on the menu.

The beauty of this recipe also lies in its incredible versatility. Don’t be afraid to experiment and customize it to your heart’s content! If you’re a fan of chicken, shred some perfectly seasoned cooked chicken breast for your filling. For a vegetarian twist, consider swapping the meat for a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and black beans, perhaps even adding some crumbled tofu or tempeh for extra texture and protein. Cheese lovers, this is your moment! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are my go-to, feel free to explore other meltable cheeses like Pepper Jack for a kick, or even a blend with a touch of Oaxaca cheese for an authentic stretch. Spice enthusiasts, you can easily turn up the heat by adding extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne to your seasoning, or by including sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers in your filling. Want to make it even creamier? A spoonful of sour cream or crema mixed into the meat filling can add another layer of luxuriousness. For an adventurous twist, consider adding a drizzle of chipotle mayo or a homemade habanero sauce on top before serving. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this incredible dish to exactly your taste preferences, making it uniquely yours every single time.

Ultimately, this recipe delivers that incredible, satisfying feeling you get from a perfectly executed layered dish, but with the control and quality that only homemade can provide. It’s an elevated take on a beloved concept, something that will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire. If you’ve ever found yourself longing for that elusive combination of cheesy goodness, flavorful meat, and satisfying texture, especially if you’ve been a fan of something like the original Taco Bell Quesarito, then this homemade version is not just a recommendation, it’s a mission! Trust me, the effort is minimal, and the reward is absolutely magnificent. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can replicate and even surpass those familiar flavors with fresh ingredients and your own personal touch. This isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table, sharing delicious food with loved ones, and feeling proud of what you’ve accomplished in the kitchen.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to experience a truly extraordinary meal. I genuinely hope you’ll give this recipe a try and discover for yourself just how incredibly delicious and rewarding it can be. And when you do, please, please share your experience! I absolutely love hearing about your kitchen adventures. Did you add a unique twist? What were your favorite toppings? Did your family rave about it? Drop a comment below or share a picture on your favorite social media platform, tagging me so I can see your magnificent creations. Your feedback and stories are what truly inspire me to keep sharing more delicious recipes with you all. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!