Grilled Cheese Burrito: Recipe and Taco Bell Secrets

Name: Grilled Cheese Burrito Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 large flour tortilla; ½ cup ground beef (cooked and seasoned with taco seasoning); ¼ cup cooked white rice (seasoned or plain); 2 tablespoons nacho cheese sauce; 1 tablespoon reduced-fat sour cream; 1 tablespoon creamy chipotle sauce; ½ cup shredded three-cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack); 1 tablespoon tortilla strips (optional, for crunch); 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (for skillet)

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Imagine biting into a warm, crispy tortilla packed with seasoned beef, creamy sauces, and a golden layer of melted cheese grilled right on top. That’s the grilled cheese burrito—a fast food favorite that’s taken menus and kitchens by storm. Whether you’re a Taco Bell fan or a home cook looking for comfort food, this dish delivers big flavors in every bite.

In this article, we’ll explore what makes the grilled cheese burrito so popular, how to enjoy it, and even how to make it yourself. From its ingredients to its viral fame, here’s everything you need to know about this cheesy delight.

What Is a Grilled Cheese Burrito?

A grilled cheese burrito combines the best of two worlds: a hearty burrito and a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Taco Bell introduced it as a limited-time offer in 2020, but its popularity made it a permanent menu item. It’s a flour tortilla stuffed with fillings like seasoned beef, rice, and nacho cheese, then topped with more cheese that’s grilled until crispy.

The result? A portable, cheesy meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. It’s part of the Tex-Mex family—think tacos and quesadillas—but stands out with its unique cheese-crusted exterior. For many, it’s the ultimate fast food treat.

Why People Love the Grilled Cheese Burrito

Why has this dish won over so many fans? For starters, it’s loaded with bold flavors. The mix of spicy beef, creamy chipotle sauce, and melted cheese hits all the right spots, much like our hot sausage beer cheese dip (explore cheese nutrition here).

It’s also a comfort food dream. The warm tortilla and gooey cheese make it perfect for a quick lunch or late-night snack. Plus, its TikTok fame—where foodies share recipes and reviews—has turned it into a viral sensation, boosting its appeal.

A Look at Taco Bell’s Version

Taco Bell’s grilled cheese burrito is the gold standard for most fans. According to their website, it includes:

Seasoned beef
Nacho cheese sauce
Seasoned rice
Fiesta strips (crisp tortilla bits)
Creamy chipotle sauce
Reduced-fat sour cream
A three-cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack)

The tortilla gets an extra layer of that three-cheese blend on top, grilled until golden. Priced around $4–$5, it’s an affordable option that packs about 720 calories—plenty to fill you up.

The Viral Trend That Started It All

Social media played a huge role in this burrito’s rise. On TikTok, users posted videos of themselves recreating it at home, racking up millions of views. Blogs like Moribyan and House of Yumm jumped in with copycat recipes, proving you don’t need a drive-thru to enjoy it.

This trend shows how food can spread fast online. One viral video can turn a menu item into a must-try dish overnight.

How to Make a Grilled Cheese Burrito at Home

Want to skip the restaurant? You can whip up a grilled cheese burrito in your kitchen with simple ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 large flour tortilla
½ cup cooked ground beef (seasoned with taco spices)
¼ cup cooked rice (try our Benihana chicken fried rice recipe for a tasty twist).
2 tablespoons nacho cheese sauce
1 tablespoon sour cream
1 tablespoon chipotle sauce
½ cup shredded cheddar or three-cheese blend
Optional: tortilla strips or diced tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the filling: Mix the beef, rice, nacho cheese, sour cream, and chipotle sauce in a bowl.
Assemble: Lay the tortilla flat, spoon the filling in the center, and fold it into a burrito shape.
Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the folded tortilla.
Grill it: Heat a skillet over medium heat, place the burrito cheese-side down, and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden. Flip and cook the other side for 1–2 minutes.
Serve: Let it cool slightly, then dig in!

Hands preparing a grilled cheese burrito in a skillet with melting cheese. — Grilling the perfect cheese crust for your homemade burrito.

This takes about 15 minutes and serves one. Adjust the spices or swap beef for beans to suit your taste.

Is the Grilled Cheese Burrito Healthy?

Let’s talk nutrition. Taco Bell’s version has 720 calories, 39 grams of fat, and 1,570 mg of sodium—pretty hefty for one meal (get nutrition tips here). It’s not a diet food, but it’s fine as an occasional treat.

At home, you can lighten it up. Use lean beef, low-fat cheese, or skip the sour cream. A vegetarian version with beans instead of meat cuts calories to around 500–600, depending on portions.

Grilled cheese burrito on a plate. — See how this cheesy burrito stacks up.

Calorie Breakdown

Here’s a quick look at Taco Bell’s grilled cheese burrito stats:

Calories: 720
Fat: 39g (60% of daily value)
Carbs: 64g
Protein: 26g
Sodium: 1,570mg (68% of daily value)

For comparison, a typical homemade version might drop to 550 calories with smarter swaps. It’s all about balance.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Not into beef? No problem. A vegetarian grilled cheese burrito swaps meat for black beans or refried beans. Add rice, cheese, and sauces, and you’ve got a tasty alternative.

For a vegan twist, use plant-based cheese and sour cream. Brands like Daiya or Follow Your Heart make substitutes that melt well. Grill it the same way, and you won’t miss the original.

Quick Vegetarian Recipe Idea

Replace beef with ½ cup black beans.
Use vegan cheese and sour cream.
Keep the rice, chipotle sauce, and tortilla strips.
Grill until the cheese melts.

Sliced vegetarian grilled cheese burrito with black beans and vegan cheese. — A meat-free twist on the classic, packed with beans and flavor.

This keeps the flavor while fitting your diet.

Grilled Cheese Burrito vs. Other Fast Food Favorites

How does it stack up? Let’s compare it to some classics.

Vs. Taco Bell Crunchwrap: The Crunchwrap (580 calories) is smaller and hexagonal, but lacks the grilled cheese top.
Vs. Chipotle Burrito: Chipotle’s burrito (800–1,000 calories) offers fresher ingredients but skips the cheesy crust.
Vs. Quesadilla: A quesadilla is flatter and simpler, while the grilled cheese burrito is heartier, akin to our chicken parmesan with alfredo sauce.

The cheesy exterior gives it an edge for cheese lovers. It’s a unique mix of textures and tastes.

FAQ: Your Grilled Cheese Burrito Questions Answered

Got questions about the grilled cheese burrito? You’re not alone. Here are answers to what people often ask online.

What Is in the Grilled Cheese Burrito?

The grilled cheese burrito is packed with tasty ingredients. Taco Bell’s version includes seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, seasoned rice, fiesta strips, creamy chipotle sauce, reduced-fat sour cream, and a three-cheese blend inside a flour tortilla. Plus, extra cheese is grilled on top for that crispy finish.

Is the Grilled Cheese Burrito Permanent?

Yes, it’s here to stay! Taco Bell launched it as a limited-time offer in 2020, but its popularity earned it a permanent spot on the menu. You can order it anytime at most locations.

What Sauce Is in the Grilled Cheese Burrito?

Two sauces make it special. It has creamy chipotle sauce for a mild, smoky kick and nacho cheese sauce for that classic cheesy flavor. Together, they balance spice and creaminess perfectly.

Is the Grilled Cheese Burrito Good at Taco Bell?

Most fans say yes! It’s praised for its bold flavors, gooey cheese, and hearty size—720 calories worth. If you love cheesy, filling fast food, it’s a solid pick.

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Cheese Burrito

Want to nail it every time? Try these tricks:

Use a hot skillet: Medium heat ensures the cheese crisps without burning.
Don’t overfill: Too much filling makes it hard to fold.
Experiment: Add extras like avocado or salsa for a twist.
Rest it: Let it sit for a minute after grilling—it’s easier to cut.

These small steps make a big difference in flavor and texture.

Flavor Boosters to Try

Sprinkle chili powder on the beef.
Mix in diced onions or peppers.
Swap chipotle for hot sauce if you love spice.
Add a dollop of guacamole inside.

Mix and match to find your favorite combo.

Where to Find the Best Grilled Cheese Burrito

Taco Bell is the go-to spot, with locations nationwide. Check their app for deals—sometimes it’s part of a $5 combo. Prices vary by region, but it’s usually under $5.

Local Tex-Mex joints might offer their own takes. Search “grilled cheese burrito near me” online to see what’s nearby. Or, make it at home for the freshest version.

The Future of the Grilled Cheese Burrito

This dish isn’t slowing down. Taco Bell has tested variations like a steak version, hinting at more to come. Home cooks keep innovating too, with recipes popping up online every week.

Its blend of comfort and convenience keeps it relevant. As food trends evolve, expect new spins on this cheesy classic.

Why It’s Here to Stay

Affordable and filling
Easy to customize
Appeals to cheese lovers
Perfect for social media sharing

It checks all the boxes for a lasting hit.

Conclusion: A Cheesy Adventure Awaits

The grilled cheese burrito is more than a meal—it’s a flavor-packed experience. Whether you grab one from Taco Bell or cook it yourself, it’s a simple way to enjoy Tex-Mex goodness. With its crispy cheese top and hearty fillings, it’s no wonder fans can’t get enough.

Ready to try it? Make one tonight or swing by your nearest Taco Bell. Share your thoughts below—did it live up to the hype?