A Mexican-Inspired Fast-Food Favorite at Home

The Taco Bell Quesarito is one of the chain’s most famous creations, combining the comforting flavors of cheesy quesadillas with the heartiness of a burrito. Originating from the United States but inspired by Mexican cuisine, it features layers of seasoned beef, Spanish rice, creamy chipotle sauce, nacho cheese, and sour cream all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Making it at home allows you to adjust the spice level, add more cheese, or even swap beef for chicken or beans to suit your taste.

Why the Chipotle Sauce Makes This Dish Special

The creamy chipotle sauce in this recipe is a standout ingredient. With smoky chipotle peppers, chili powder, and a touch of cumin, it adds a bold flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. The sauce also keeps the burrito moist and flavorful. Combined with Spanish rice cooked in salsa and broth, each bite offers a perfect balance of creaminess, smokiness, and spice.

A Quesadilla-Burrito Combo Everyone Will Love

The Quesarito is essentially a burrito wrapped inside a cheesy quesadilla—comfort food at its finest. This double-layer technique creates a crispy, gooey outside and a hearty filling inside. It’s perfect for family dinners, game-day spreads, or whenever you’re craving Taco Bell but want the homemade touch. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s become a fast-food legend.

Ingredients

Taco Meat

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning

Spanish Rice

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup chunky salsa
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon cumin

Chipotle Sauce

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons chipotle sauce (from adobo peppers)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Quesaritos

• 8 flour tortillas (burrito size)
• 1 cup nacho cheese sauce
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Cook Taco Meat

In a skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 3–5 minutes uncovered, until the flavors combine. Set aside.

Step 2 – Make Spanish Rice

In a large skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until tender. Add rice and stir until lightly browned. Mix in chicken broth, salsa, garlic salt, and cumin. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20 minutes, until liquid is absorbed.

Step 3 – Prepare Chipotle Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, chipotle sauce, chili powder, sugar, salt, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Chill until ready to use.

Step 4 – Assemble Quesaritos

Warm tortillas in the microwave. Spread nacho cheese on 4 tortillas, sprinkle with shredded cheese, then top with the other 4 tortillas to make quesadillas. Add taco meat, Spanish rice, chipotle sauce, and sour cream. Fold into burritos.

Step 5 – Toast & Serve

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cook each Quesarito 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Serve warm.

Timing & Nutrition

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 Quesaritos
• Calories (approx.): 480 kcal per serving

Taco Bell Quesaritos

Q1: What’s the difference between a Quesarito and a burrito?

A Quesarito is essentially a burrito wrapped inside a quesadilla. The extra cheese layer makes it gooier and more indulgent compared to a regular burrito.

Q2: Can I make this recipe healthier?

Yes! Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa, and use light sour cream or Greek yogurt in the sauce.

Q3: How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Wrap Quesaritos individually in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to keep them crispy. Microwaving works too, but the tortilla may soften.

Q4: Can I freeze homemade Quesaritos?

Yes, you can freeze them before toasting. Wrap tightly in foil or freezer bags and store up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven until heated through.

Q5: What are the best sides to serve with Quesaritos?

Popular options include chips and salsa, guacamole, Mexican street corn, or a simple side salad.