Copycat Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burritos Recipe

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These Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burritos have become a hit for good reason: they’re the perfect fusion of bold spices, creamy cheese, and comforting textures wrapped up in one irresistible package. But what if I told you that you don’t have to wait in a drive-thru line to savor this deliciousness?

How to make Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burritos

Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burritos are a limited-time menu item that’s all about gooey cheese and fun dipping action.

Ingredients

For the Burrito Filling

• 1 lb of ground beef or shredded chicken (you can choose your preferred protein)
• 1 packet of taco seasoning
• 1 cup cooked white rice (fluffy and well-seasoned with salt or lime juice)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ can (4 oz) refried beans (optional for added creaminess)

For the Nacho Cheese Dip

• 1 cup Velveeta cheese (or any processed cheese that melts smoothly)
• ½ cup milk (adjust as needed for creaminess)
• 1-2 tbsp pickled jalapeño juice (optional, for a kick of flavor!)
• 1 tsp paprika or chili powder

Extras

• 4-6 large flour tortillas
• Vegetable oil or butter (for warming the tortillas, optional)
• Sour cream, salsa, or any fresh topping (optional but recommended for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Protein

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef (or shredded chicken), breaking it apart as you go.
2. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain any excess grease.
3. Add the packet of taco seasoning according to the package instructions (usually mix with ⅔ cup water), stir until coated, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. Cook white rice as per package instructions. For added flavor, mix in a little lime juice or a pinch of salt after cooking.

Step 3: Make the Nacho Cheese Dip

1. In a saucepan over low heat, combine Velveeta cheese and milk, stirring until smooth and creamy.
2. Add pickled jalapeño juice, paprika, and/or chili powder for extra flavor. Adjust the consistency with more milk if it’s too thick.
3. Keep the cheese warm and ready for dipping.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burritos

1. Lay out a large flour tortilla and spread a thin layer of refried beans (optional).
2. Add 1-2 spoonfuls of your taco-seasoned meat.
3. Layer the cooked rice and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
4. Roll the burrito tightly by folding in the sides and rolling from the bottom.

Step 5: Warm the Burritos

1. If desired, lightly grease a skillet with vegetable oil or butter.
2. Toast the burritos until golden brown and warmed through, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 6: Serve with Nacho Cheese Dip

1. Serve the burritos alongside your fresh, creamy nacho cheese dip.
2. Add optional sides like sour cream, salsa, or chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Dipping Burritos

• Get the Perfect Melt: For the nacho cheese sauce, use processed cheeses like Velveeta, as they melt consistently without separating.
• Customize Your Burrito: Add extras like jalapeños, guacamole, or Taco Bell-style spicy ranch for added flavor.
• Wrap It Right: Ensure your burrito is wrapped tightly to avoid any filling spilling out during dipping.
• Serve Hot: The cheesy dip should always be served warm for a smooth texture that complements the burrito perfectly.

What to serve with

Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burritos are deliciously indulgent on their own, but pairing them with well-chosen sides and beverages can take your meal to the next level.

a) Mexican Rice: A flavorful, vibrant rice dish is a classic addition to Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burritos. Mexican rice, seasoned with tomato, garlic, onion, and spices like cumin, pairs perfectly with these burritos. You can sprinkle a little cilantro on top for added freshness.

b) Refried Beans: Refried beans are rich, creamy, and savory—an excellent side dish that enhances the texture of the burritos. Serve them sprinkled with shredded cheese or alongside tortilla chips for dipping.

c) Seasoned Black Beans or Pinto Beans: A lighter alternative to refried beans, seasoned black or pinto beans bring earthy flavor and a hearty texture. Cook them with garlic, chili powder, and a dash of lime juice for an extra kick.

Ingredients Substitutes

There are plenty of substitutes you can use to recreate Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burritos at home.

1. Protein Substitute

a) Ground Beef Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For lighter and leaner options, replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Season them the same way with a taco seasoning packet for a similar flavor.
• Plant-Based Meat: If you’re vegetarian or vegan, use plant-based “ground beef” from brands like Beyond Meat, Impossible, or MorningStar Farms. These alternatives replicate the texture of ground beef and work well with taco seasoning.
• Lentils: For a high-protein vegetarian option, cooked lentils can be seasoned with taco seasoning to mimic the savory flavor of the beef filling.

b) Shredded Chicken Alternatives

• Rotisserie Chicken: Instead of cooking raw chicken, shred rotisserie chicken to save time. Toss it with taco seasoning or a bit of salsa for added flavor.
• Jackfruit: For vegan options, shredded jackfruit is a perfect replacement for chicken thanks to its meaty texture. Season it well to make it flavorful.

2. Flour Tortilla Alternatives

If flour tortillas aren’t available or you’re looking for dietary-friendly options:

• Corn Tortillas: These are smaller and give a more authentic Mexican flavor. However, they are less pliable, so they may not wrap as tightly as flour tortillas.
• Low-Carb or Keto Tortillas: Brands like Mission or Siete offer low-carb tortillas made from almond flour, coconut flour, or other keto-friendly ingredients.
• Gluten-Free Tortillas: For gluten sensitivities, try gluten-free tortillas made with rice flour, cassava flour, or chickpea flour (widely available in health stores).

3. Rice Substitute

Rice adds bulk and texture to the burritos, but alternatives work well, especially for dietary adjustments:

• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb, grain-free alternative for those following paleo or keto diets. Season it with lime juice or cilantro for added flavor.
• Quinoa: High in protein and fiber, quinoa brings a nutty flavor and fluffy texture that complements the burrito fillings.
• Brown Rice: A healthier whole-grain substitute for white rice. It has a chewier texture but offers more nutrients like fiber and antioxidants.

4. Cheese Substitute

If you prefer dairy-free or alternative options for cheese:

• Dairy-Free Cheeses: Vegan cheese brands like Violife, Daiya, or Follow Your Heart provide dairy-free shredded cheese options.
• Nutritional Yeast: Sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor. Combine it with unsweetened almond milk and tapioca starch to create a creamy cheese sauce.
• Homemade Cashew Cheese: Soak cashews and blend them with garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and water for a creamy cheese-like spread ideal for plant-based diets.

5. Refried Beans Alternative

Refried beans add creaminess to burritos but can easily be swapped out:

• Black Beans: Mash cooked black beans with a touch of olive oil, garlic, and salt for a smoother consistency.
• Whole Pinto Beans: Simmer pinto beans and lightly mash them to mimic refried beans while retaining texture.
• Chickpeas: Blend chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, and garlic for a creamy bean replacement similar to hummus.

6. Nacho Cheese Sauce Substitutes

If Velveeta isn’t available or you’re looking for alternative cheesy dips:

Dairy Options

• Cream Cheese-Based Sauce: Combine cream cheese, milk, shredded cheddar, and jalapeño juice for a quick cheese dip.
• Real Cheese Sauce: Use sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melted into a roux (flour and butter base) with milk. For added spice, stir in paprika or chili powder.

Dairy-Free Options

• Cashew Nacho Sauce: Blend soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, turmeric, garlic, and paprika to create a creamy, cheesy vegan dip.
• Potato-Carrot Cheese Sauce: Blend boiled potatoes and carrots with almond milk, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a smooth, nacho-style sauce.

Final Thoughts

These homemade Taco Bell Cheesy Dipping Burritos are guaranteed to bring that Taco Bell magic into your kitchen. 

More Taco Bell Recipes:

• Copycat Taco Bell Crispy Chicken Taco Recipe
• Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Strips Recipe
• Flamin’ Hot Grilled Cheese Burrito Recipe