Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat
If you have ever indulged in the crave-worthy delight of the Grilled Cheese Burrito from a popular fast-food chain, you’ll love making this Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat at home.
Packed with savory seasoned beef, creamy nacho cheese sauce, flavorful rice, and a trio of melty cheeses all wrapped in a toasty-grilled tortilla, this burrito ticks all the boxes for comfort food lovers.
This recipe offers a satisfying homemade version of the restaurant favorite, bringing a taste of fast food to your kitchen with fresher ingredients and greater customization.
The grilled cheese burrito sensation sparked a viral craze for its mouthwatering combination of textures: gooey cheese on the outside, and a hearty, satisfying filling on the inside.
Its popularity has led many food enthusiasts and home cooks to attempt their own copycat versions, giving rise to a new staple in Tex-Mex home cooking.
Whether you’re looking for a filling meal for a weeknight dinner, a show-stopping lunch, or a shareable party dish, this Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
If you’re curious about the original inspiration, explore more about the history of burritos and how this iconic food evolved to capture the hearts (and taste buds) of millions. Let’s dive in and create your own mouthwatering masterpiece with this step-by-step guide.
Ingredients for Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 cups cooked seasoned rice (cilantro lime or Mexican style)
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup seasoned tortilla strips or chips (crushed)
- 6 large flour tortillas (10-inch burrito size)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling tortillas)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pickled jalapeños (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Making Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat
- Begin by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break apart the beef with a spatula and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the browned beef and add 3/4 cup water. Stir well and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture is thickened. Remove from heat.
- Prepare your seasoned rice according to package directions or make homemade cilantro lime rice. Fluff and set aside.
- Warm the nacho cheese sauce either on the stovetop or in the microwave until smooth and pourable.
- Arrange all cheese varieties, sour cream, tortilla strips, and optional add-ins (cilantro, jalapeños, tomatoes) for assembly.
- Lay one flour tortilla flat. Add a layer of seasoned rice down the center, followed by a generous scoop of seasoned beef.
- Top with nacho cheese sauce, a sprinkle each of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a scattering of tortilla strips.
- If desired, add pickled jalapeños, tomatoes, or cilantro for a flavor boost.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter and swirl to coat.
- Sprinkle an even layer of shredded cheese directly onto the skillet, slightly larger than the width of your burrito.
- Once the cheese begins to melt, place the wrapped burrito seam-side down onto the cheese. Grill for 2-3 minutes, pressing gently, until the cheese crisps and forms a golden crust.
- Carefully flip the burrito to grill the other side for 1-2 minutes, ensuring an even crisp.
- Remove the burrito from the pan and let it rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing.
- Repeat with remaining burritos, adding fresh cheese and butter for each batch.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra sour cream or salsa, if desired.
Nutritional Information
The Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat is a hearty and indulgent meal that offers both protein and satisfying carbs, making it a complete dish. Each serving contains approximately 750 to 800 calories, with the bulk of energy coming from the seasoned beef, rice, and triple cheese blend.
On average, a homemade grilled cheese burrito provides around 35g of protein, 34g of fat (including saturated fats from cheese and beef), and about 65g of carbohydrates per serving.
Depending on your customization choices (such as using low-fat cheese or whole-grain tortillas), you can adjust the macro profile to better suit your dietary needs. It also contains valuable micronutrients, including calcium from the cheese, vitamin A from the cheese and rice, and iron from the beef.
For more detailed nutritional breakdowns, refer to tools like the USDA FoodData Central for each ingredient. Keep in mind, sodium content can be significant due to seasoning mixes and cheeses—choosing reduced-sodium options or preparing homemade seasoning can help.
To increase the fiber and nutrient content, try using brown rice and adding extra veggies like diced peppers or spinach. While this dish is indulgent and energy-dense, enjoying it occasionally as part of a balanced meal is perfectly fitting in a healthy lifestyle.
For those following specific diets, swapping ingredients as needed (e.g., opt for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles) can reduce saturated fat and overall calories. Always consult registered nutritionists for personal dietary recommendations.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat
Pairing beverages with your Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat can enhance the overall dining experience. For a classic, refreshing match, try a cold Mexican lager or a crisp pilsner, as these beers cut through the richness of the cheese and beef while cleansing the palate.
For wine lovers, a young, fruit-forward red such as a Tempranillo or a light Zinfandel complements the robust, spicy flavors of the burrito. A semi-dry Riesling or a sparkling Prosecco also works beautifully, balancing heat and creaminess with lively acidity.
For a non-alcoholic option, consider agua fresca made with watermelon or lime, a tart hibiscus iced tea, or a tangy homemade lemonade. Exploring flavor pairings can further personalize your Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat meal and elevate it from a casual dinner to a true culinary experience.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Achieving the perfect Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat at home comes down to a few essential tips and creative variations. First, make sure to use burrito-sized tortillas that are super fresh and pliable—a stale or dry tortilla is more likely to tear or fail to wrap tightly.
For extra flexibility, warm the tortillas briefly in the microwave or in a dry skillet before assembling. When grilling the cheese onto the outside of the burrito, don't skimp on the cheese!
Use a generous, even layer so it crisps up beautifully on the pan and doesn’t pull off as you flip. Press gently while grilling for maximum surface contact and a shatteringly crisp crust.
When it comes to fillings, feel free to get creative: swap the beef for shredded rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, or make it vegetarian with seasoned black beans or sautéed mushrooms. Switch up the cheese blend by adding pepper jack or smoked gouda for a unique spin.
If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate extra fillings such as bell peppers, onions, sautéed spinach, or even corn for added sweetness and color. For a healthier version, opt for lean ground turkey, reduced-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and whole wheat tortillas.
You can also bake the burritos at 400°F for 10-12 minutes to crisp up the outside with less fat compared to pan-frying with butter. Finally, to make ahead and freeze, assemble the burritos without grilling the cheese exterior, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze.
When ready to eat, thaw, then finish with the grilled cheese crust for a just-made experience. Let your creativity shine—after all, copycat recipes are about making your favorite fast food even better in your own kitchen!
Serving Suggestions
The Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat deserves a memorable presentation to match its bold flavors. For family dinners or parties, present each burrito whole on a platter, or slice in half on the diagonal to reveal the tantalizing filling.
Garnish with extra melted cheese, chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of diced tomatoes, and colorful pickled jalapeños for eye-catching appeal. Offer small bowls of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping, allowing everyone to customize their experience.
If serving as part of a larger meal, pair with light side dishes like a zesty corn and black bean salad, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
To make it more festive, accompany with homemade tortilla chips and a trio of salsas, from mild to fiery hot. When hosting game day or a movie night, wrap each burrito in parchment paper or foil for easy grab-and-go convenience.
For a more refined twist, serve the Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat cut into bite-sized portions as hearty hors d’oeuvres with toothpicks and individual dipping sauces.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy lunch, these burritos are best enjoyed hot off the skillet, ensuring the cheese stays gooey and the textures pleasingly crisp and warm.
Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat Health Benefits
While the Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat is undoubtedly a decadent treat, it offers some noteworthy health benefits when enjoyed in moderation and prepared with mindful ingredient swaps. The protein-rich beef or alternative fillings support muscle repair and sustained energy.
Cheese provides calcium and phosphorus essential for bone health, while tomatoes, cilantro, and optional veggies offer vitamins C and K, plus antioxidants. Using brown rice or adding black beans increases dietary fiber, aiding digestion and heart health.
For lighter versions, choose lean meats, low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt, and whole-grain tortillas to reduce saturated fat and improve nutrient density. Customizing your fillings with fresh vegetables can further boost the vitamin and mineral content of your meal.
With careful preparation, the Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat can be part of a balanced diet, contributing to daily nutrient goals and culinary enjoyment.
FAQs About Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat
Can I make the Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute the seasoned beef with black beans, pinto beans, sautéed mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat. For vegan options, use vegan cheese shreds, plant-based sour cream, and verify that your tortillas contain no animal products.
What kind of rice is best for this recipe?
Any seasoned rice, such as cilantro lime or Mexican rice, works well. White or brown rice is also suitable, as long as it is fluffy and not overcooked. For extra flavor, cook the rice in broth and stir in fresh herbs or lime juice.
Can I freeze the Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat?
Yes, you can assemble the burritos and freeze them ungrilled. Wrap tightly in foil and store in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw, grill with cheese to crisp the exterior, and serve hot.
How do I keep the burrito from falling apart while grilling?
Make sure to use fresh tortillas, don’t overfill, and let the burrito rest seam-side down for at least 30 seconds before grilling. Use a gentle hand when flipping, and press lightly to ensure the cheese adheres well.
Are there healthier swaps I can make in this recipe?
Yes! Use lean meats, reduced-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and whole-grain tortillas. Add more vegetables or swap out beef for beans for increased fiber and reduced saturated fat.
Making your own Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat at home opens a world of flavor, texture, and culinary creativity. Whether you’re recreating a beloved fast-food item or simply indulging your cravings with cleaner, customizable ingredients, this recipe delivers on comfort and taste. From the crispy cheese exterior to the hearty fillings, each bite is a delicious reminder of why this burrito trend captured food lovers everywhere. Explore the endless possibilities for customization, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Share with loved ones, serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade classic. Happy cooking and happy eating!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup cooked Mexican-style rice
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
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1In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning with a splash of water. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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2Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 20 seconds to make them pliable.
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3Spoon some seasoned beef, rice, nacho cheese sauce, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese into the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll up the burritos.
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4Mix shredded cheddar and remaining Monterey Jack cheese together. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place a handful of cheese on the skillet in a rectangle, then lay a burrito seam-side down on top. Let the cheese melt and crisp for 1-2 minutes until golden, then carefully flip and repeat on the other side if desired.
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5Remove from skillet and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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