If you’re a fan of Taco Bell’s Quesarito, you’re not alone. This beloved menu item, a brilliant fusion of a quesadilla and a burrito, combines the best of both worlds into a cheesy, flavorful handheld meal. While the original version from Taco Bell has developed a cult following, making your own Quesarito at home lets you take full control of the ingredients, flavor, and spice level.
Whether you’re craving the spicy kick of chipotle sauce, the gooey melt of nacho cheese, or the hearty satisfaction of seasoned beef and rice, this guide breaks down every element so you can recreate the fast food favorite from scratch. Plus, with the right ingredients and a few simple steps, it’s surprisingly easy—and definitely worth the effort.
Creating a homemade version not only allows for customization but also ensures a fresher and more budget-friendly alternative. From learning how to make creamy nacho cheese sauce (see nacho cheese) to crafting the perfect quesadilla wrap, this guide covers it all. For even more Taco Bell-inspired dinners, you can explore a range of creative spins on this recipe via Pinterest’s Taco Bell dinner ideas.
Whether you’re planning an indulgent dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this copycat Quesarito recipe offers the bold flavors and satisfying textures that Taco Bell lovers crave—all made in your own kitchen.
What is a Quesarito?
A Quesarito is a crave-worthy creation that combines two Mexican-inspired classics: the quesadilla and the burrito. Originally introduced by Taco Bell in 2014, the Quesarito features a burrito wrapped inside a cheesy quesadilla shell. This means you get a rich outer layer of melted cheese, while the inside is packed with flavorful seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, chipotle sauce, and cilantro-lime rice—all bundled up in a warm tortilla.
Unlike a traditional burrito, which is wrapped in a plain flour tortilla, the Quesarito uses a quesadilla-style base made by fusing a smaller tortilla to a larger one using melted cheese in between. This not only enhances the flavor but gives it a crispier, golden-brown texture when pan-seared.
The combination of spicy, creamy, and savory components makes it stand out among other fast food items. For those who’ve missed it since its removal from some Taco Bell locations (source: Taco Bell – Wikipedia), recreating it at home is the perfect solution.
To understand why this meal has such a devoted following, it helps to break down its core components:
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Melted cheese quesadilla wrap
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Spicy seasoned beef
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Creamy nacho cheese sauce
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Smoky chipotle cream sauce
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Seasoned white rice with lime and cilantro
This unique combination of flavors and textures makes the Quesarito more than just another burrito. It’s a cheesy, spicy, comforting meal that hits every craving. If you’re interested in how the quesadilla contributes to the Quesarito’s structure and taste, learn more about its history and uses at Wikipedia – Quesadilla.
For visual inspiration and variations of this fan-favorite item, Pinterest offers a rich collection of user-created ideas—browse through copycat recipes inspiration on Pinterest to see how others are putting their own spin on this Taco Bell classic.
By mastering the art of the Quesarito, you’re not just recreating a menu item—you’re leveling up your home cooking game with an irresistible, restaurant-quality dish.
Ingredients Overview
To successfully recreate the Taco Bell-style Quesarito, you’ll need a combination of familiar pantry staples and a few flavorful additions. Each component works together to create the signature layers of cheesy, spicy, and savory goodness that define this fast food favorite. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need:
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Ground beef: A well-seasoned meat base is essential for replicating Taco Bell’s bold flavor.
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Spices: Including chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These build the foundation of the taco-style beef.
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Tortillas: Use large burrito-size tortillas for the outer layer and medium tortillas for the inner melted cheese quesadilla layer.
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Cheeses: A mix of shredded cheddar and Mexican blend cheese ensures melty perfection.
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Nacho cheese sauce: You can use store-bought, but making your own gives you more flavor control. Learn more about how nacho cheese is commonly used in American cuisine from Nacho Cheese – Wikipedia.
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Chipotle sauce: Made with sour cream and chipotle peppers in adobo, this sauce brings the smoky heat that balances the richness of the cheese. Read about chipotle in adobo and its culinary role at Adobo – Wikipedia.
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Rice: White rice, seasoned with lime and cilantro, adds texture and freshness to balance the richer elements.
Many of these ingredients can be found at home or in any grocery store, making this copycat recipe both convenient and cost-effective. For those who want a visual layout of the ingredients or prep ideas, you can explore homemade nacho cheese ideas on Pinterest.
If you’re new to making copycat Taco Bell recipes, this recipe is a great place to start. You’ll learn how layering flavors and textures can create a delicious, restaurant-style experience without leaving your kitchen.
How to Make Seasoned Taco Bell-Style Beef
The seasoned beef is the savory core of any great Quesarito. To recreate that bold, unmistakable Taco Bell flavor, you’ll need a precise mix of spices that enhances the ground beef without overpowering it. This section will walk you through the simple steps to make flavorful, juicy taco meat that tastes just like the original.
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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2 tsp chili powder
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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¼ cup water
These seasonings create a savory, smoky, and slightly spicy profile that mimics Taco Bell’s taco filling. The use of smoked paprika gives it a depth that closely matches the fast-food version’s complexity.
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
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Once the meat is no longer pink, drain excess fat.
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Add Seasonings
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Return the skillet to the heat and sprinkle in all the spices: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Stir until the beef is evenly coated.
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Simmer with Water
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Pour in ¼ cup of water and stir to incorporate.
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Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to slightly thicken.
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Taste and Adjust
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Taste the meat and adjust seasonings if needed. You might add more salt or a dash of lime juice for brightness.
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The key to this filling is balance—richness from the beef, punch from the spices, and moisture from the simmering step. For more background on how chili powder and cumin are used in Mexican-inspired dishes, check out the base components in a burrito via Burrito – Wikipedia.
You can also take inspiration from Pinterest’s copycat recipes section for different variations of Taco Bell-style beef. Whether you prefer leaner ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute, the seasoning base remains the same—bold and unmistakably craveable.
Once your seasoned beef is cooked and ready, set it aside. You’ll be layering this juicy meat into the Quesarito with rice, sauces, and cheese to build a complete flavor bomb.
How to Make Chipotle Sauce
The chipotle sauce is one of the most memorable flavors in the Taco Bell Quesarito. It delivers a smoky, spicy, and creamy kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich nacho cheese and seasoned beef. Making it at home takes just a few minutes and uses easy-to-find ingredients.
Ingredients:
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½ cup sour cream
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1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
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1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the can)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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Salt to taste
You can learn more about the flavor profile of chipotle peppers in adobo at Adobo – Wikipedia. These peppers give the sauce its signature heat and depth.
Instructions:
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Mix the Base
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In a small bowl, add the sour cream, minced chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce.
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Season It
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Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
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Adjust the Flavor
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Taste the sauce and adjust the salt or heat level. You can add more sour cream if it’s too spicy or more adobo for a bolder flavor.
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This chipotle sauce is not only great in the Quesarito—it’s also a fantastic dip or sandwich spread. For more creative uses of sauces in Mexican dishes, explore Pinterest’s Taco Bell dinner ideas.
Once prepared, the sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. Be sure to give it a stir before using, as the spices can settle. It’s the creamy, smoky punch that ties the whole Quesarito together.
Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe (Optional but Recommended)
Lime-cilantro rice adds a fresh, zesty layer to the rich and spicy Quesarito. While this ingredient is technically optional, it’s highly recommended if you want to closely mimic the Taco Bell experience. This simple rice dish is vibrant, aromatic, and easy to make.
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked white rice
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2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
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1 tbsp lime juice
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Salt to taste
Cilantro and lime are both powerful flavor boosters. To learn more about their culinary importance, visit Cilantro – Wikipedia and Lime – Wikipedia.
Instructions:
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Cook the Rice
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Use freshly cooked or leftover white rice. Make sure it’s not overly wet or sticky.
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Add Flavor
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Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
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Mix Well
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Fluff with a fork to combine and distribute the flavors evenly.
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This rice pairs beautifully with the beef and sauces, providing a necessary contrast to the richness of the cheese. For visual ideas and presentation tips, check out Pinterest’s copycat recipes.
Set the rice aside once it’s seasoned. You’ll use it as the base layer when assembling your Quesarito.
How to Make Homemade Creamy Nacho Cheese Sauce
A true Quesarito wouldn’t be complete without velvety, creamy nacho cheese sauce. While you can use store-bought versions, making it at home gives you full control over flavor, texture, and spice level.
Ingredients:
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1 cup milk
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup American cheese (or Velveeta)
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Optional: 1 tbsp jalapeño juice or diced jalapeños for spice
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Salt to taste
Learn more about the general use of nacho cheese in cuisine via Nacho Cheese – Wikipedia.
Instructions:
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Make a Roux
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In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1 minute to remove raw flour taste.
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Add Milk
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Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
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Melt the Cheese
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Add shredded cheddar and American cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
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Season It
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Add salt and optional jalapeño juice for extra flavor.
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This sauce is perfect for drizzling, dipping, and layering. Keep it warm during assembly, or store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Before using leftovers, reheat gently over low heat.
To see various nacho cheese styles and presentation options, browse Pinterest’s homemade nacho cheese ideas.
Quesarito Assembly Step-by-Step
Now it’s time to bring everything together. The magic of the Quesarito lies in its unique assembly: a burrito wrapped inside a quesadilla. It’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Step-by-step guide:
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Make the Quesadilla Base
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In a skillet, place a medium tortilla. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
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Place a large burrito-size tortilla over it. Let the cheese melt and bind the two tortillas together.
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Remove and set aside.
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Layer the Filling in the Center
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Spoon a portion of cilantro-lime rice in the middle.
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Add a generous scoop of seasoned beef.
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Drizzle warm nacho cheese sauce over the meat.
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Spoon in chipotle sauce to taste.
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Sprinkle Mexican blend cheese.
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Add a dollop of sour cream if desired.
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Wrap It Up
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Fold the sides over the center, then roll tightly like a burrito.
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Grill or Pan-Seal
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Return to a skillet and cook seam-side down until golden and crispy on both sides.
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Explore Pinterest’s Taco Bell inspired dinners for unique ways others assemble their Quesaritos.
Cooking the Quesarito
Crisping the Quesarito gives it that iconic outer texture. This step enhances the quesadilla layer and melts the inner cheese even further.
Method:
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Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
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Place the wrapped Quesarito seam-side down.
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Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing slightly with a spatula.
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Flip when golden brown and continue cooking the second side.
You can also use a panini press for more even searing and grill marks. Serve hot with salsa, guacamole, or even extra nacho cheese sauce on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Quesarito experience with simple sides and toppings:
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Extra sour cream
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Homemade salsa or pico de gallo
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Guacamole
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Chips and queso
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Mexican street corn
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Refried or black beans
Pairing ideas can be found by browsing Pinterest’s copycat recipes inspiration.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
The Quesarito can be partially prepped in advance:
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Make Ahead: Prepare the rice, sauces, and beef ahead of time. Store separately.
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Refrigerate: Store assembled but uncooked Quesaritos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may get soggy.
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Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil, freeze up to one month. Thaw overnight before reheating in a skillet.
Customization Ideas
Customize your Quesarito to match your taste or dietary needs:
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Vegetarian: Swap beef for beans, tofu, or grilled vegetables.
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Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy pepper jack cheese.
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Extra cheesy: Mix different cheese types like Monterey Jack or Oaxaca cheese.
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Protein swaps: Use shredded chicken, steak strips, or plant-based meat alternatives.
Check Pinterest’s copycat recipes for more customization inspiration.
Copycat vs Real Taco Bell Quesarito
How does this homemade version compare to the Taco Bell original?
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Taste: You get more intense and customizable flavor.
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Ingredients: Fresher, less processed, and made to your preference.
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Cost: Much cheaper per serving.
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Portion Size: Control exactly how much you want.
For more insights into Taco Bell’s food innovations, visit Taco Bell – Wikipedia.
FAQs
What is inside a Taco Bell Quesarito?
A Taco Bell Quesarito includes seasoned beef, seasoned rice, nacho cheese sauce, chipotle sauce, sour cream, and a cheese quesadilla outer wrap.
Is the Quesarito discontinued at Taco Bell?
Yes, in many U.S. locations, the Quesarito was removed from the menu, though it may still be available via online ordering or in some regions.
How spicy is the Taco Bell chipotle sauce?
It’s mildly spicy, with smoky undertones from the chipotle peppers. You can control the heat in the homemade version by adjusting the amount of adobo and chipotle.
What cheese does Taco Bell use in their nacho sauce?
Typically, a processed blend including cheddar and other melting cheeses like American or Velveeta. Learn more about nacho cheese blends at Nacho Cheese – Wikipedia.
Can you buy Taco Bell sauces in stores?
Yes, Taco Bell-branded sauces like chipotle, fire, and mild sauces are available in many grocery stores and online.
Quesarito Recipe Taco Bell Style How To Make Creamy Nacho Cheese At Home
Description
This Taco Bell-style Quesarito recipe is a craveable, cheesy, and fully loaded burrito wrapped in a melted cheese quesadilla. Featuring layers of seasoned beef, cilantro-lime rice, homemade nacho cheese, and smoky chipotle sauce, it’s a fast food favorite you can now make entirely at home. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day meals, or a next-level lunch, this recipe captures all the flavor of the original with fresher, customizable ingredients.
Ingredients
For the seasoned beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ cup water
For the chipotle sauce:
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers can)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
Other ingredients:
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
- 4 medium flour tortillas (quesadilla-size)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably seasoned with lime and cilantro)
- 1 cup nacho cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Sour cream (for extra layering, optional)
Instructions
Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once browned, drain the fat and add the spices and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
To make the chipotle sauce, combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix until smooth. Adjust salt to taste.
In a clean skillet, place a medium tortilla and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Place a large tortilla on top of the cheese and let it melt slightly, forming a quesadilla base. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Place the quesadilla base on a clean surface. Add a layer of seasoned rice in the center, followed by seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, chipotle sauce, Mexican blend cheese, and sour cream if using.
Fold the quesarito by folding the sides over the center and rolling it up tightly.
Place the quesarito seam-side down in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Serve warm with your favorite sauce or extra sour cream.
Notes
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Adjust spice levels by changing the number of chipotle peppers or adding hot sauce.
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To save time, use store-bought nacho cheese or pre-cooked rice.
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Make multiple Quesaritos and freeze them for future meals.
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Swap beef for beans or grilled chicken for a different flavor profile.
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Don’t skip the pan-searing—it gives the Quesarito its iconic texture.
