If you’ve ever found yourself craving the irresistible fusion of a quesadilla and a burrito, then you’re in for a treat with this Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe. This delightful creation wraps seasoned ground beef, melty cheeses, creamy sour cream, and fluffy rice inside a cheesy quesadilla, all folded up like a cozy little package of bold, comforting flavors. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a game day snack, or any time you want to savor something hearty and unexpected. Once you get the hang of it, this Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe will become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe so special. From the gooey cheeses to the perfectly seasoned beef, every component adds something delicious to the final dish.
- Large flour tortillas: You’ll use two per serving—one for the quesadilla base and one for wrapping everything up snugly.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein foundation, packed with rich flavor once seasoned perfectly.
- Taco seasoning mix: Essential to bring that iconic Southwest spice profile, or you can go for your own homemade blend for a personal touch.
- Water: Helps create a saucy mixture with the taco seasoning to coat the beef thoroughly.
- Cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and gooey meltiness inside both the quesadilla and the quesarito.
- Mozzarella cheese: For that stretchy, stringy texture that makes every bite delightful.
- Sour cream: Brings a cool creaminess to balance the boldness of the meat and spices.
- Nacho cheese sauce: Optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
- Cooked white rice: Offers a soft, fluffy texture that fills out the quesadilla and makes the dish more substantial.
- Diced tomatoes: Freshness and a pop of juiciness to brighten each mouthful.
- Chopped lettuce: Adds crunch if you want a bit of crispness without taking away from the warm filling.
- Taco or hot sauce: To punch up the heat and flavor according to your personal taste.
How to Make Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoned Ground Beef
Start by cooking the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat, then stir in your taco seasoning along with the water. Let it simmer gently until the beef is fully coated and thickened with that vibrant, spicy sauce.
Step 2: Make the Cheesy Quesadilla Base
Lay one large flour tortilla flat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the tortilla and let them melt until gooey. Once melted, remove the quesadilla from the pan carefully and set aside—it forms the cheesy heart of your quesarito.
Step 3: Assemble the Quesarito Filling
On top of the cheesy quesadilla, layer the seasoned ground beef, cooked white rice, a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce, dollops of sour cream, diced tomatoes, and chopped lettuce if using. Feel free to add a bit of taco sauce here for an extra zing.
Step 4: Wrap it Up
Place the second large flour tortilla on your workspace and sprinkle it lightly with shredded cheddar cheese. Then, carefully transfer your loaded quesadilla onto this new tortilla, folding it over tightly to form a burrito shape. The cheese on the tortilla will help seal the edges once warmed again.
Step 5: Final Toast
Put the wrapped quesarito back in the skillet, cooking over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden, crispy, and the cheese inside has melted thoroughly. This final step melds all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Serve Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few slices of avocado can elevate your Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe even further. Adding a wedge of lime on the side brightens the whole plate and adds a fresh citrus kick that complements the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your quesarito with classic sides like tortilla chips and salsa, a refreshing Mexican-style street corn salad, or even a simple black bean salad. These sides keep the meal balanced and add variety to the textures and flavors on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling creative, slice the quesarito into pinwheel bites for a fun appetizer or party snack. Alternatively, serve it open-faced as a cheesy tostada base topped with your favorite garnishes for a visually stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover quesaritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making for excellent next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled, un-toasted quesaritos in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to two months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your quesarito in a skillet over medium heat, flipping gently until warmed through and the tortilla crisps back up. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortilla soggy.
FAQs
Can I make this Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for seasoned tofu, beans, or sautéed vegetables to keep all the flavor with a veggie-friendly twist.
What cheeses work best for this recipe?
The classic combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives you sharp flavor and that perfect stretchy melt, essential for authentically delicious results.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Definitely. A blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne will mimic the flavors beautifully and allow you to control the spice level.
Is it necessary to add rice?
While rice adds bulk and a nice texture contrast, you can omit it if you prefer a lighter or more protein-focused filling.
How spicy is this Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe?
The base recipe has a moderate spice level, but you can easily adjust it with more or less taco seasoning and the optional hot sauce to suit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like biting into the warm, cheesy, flavorful layers of a homemade quesarito. This Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe captures all the best parts of your favorite fast food indulgence while letting you customize it with your favorite ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and enjoy all those gooey, spicy, satisfying bites. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This copycat Taco Bell Quesarito recipe features a cheesy quesadilla wrapped around a flavorful beef and rice filling, finished with creamy sour cream and tangy sauces. It’s a delicious twist on a classic fast-food favorite, combining the best of a quesadilla and a burrito for a satisfying, cheesy meal that’s perfect for any taco lover.
Ingredients
Quesadilla
- 1 large flour tortilla
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water (for seasoning)
Additional Fillings
- 1/2 cup cooked white rice
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped lettuce (optional)
- 1/4 cup nacho cheese sauce (or melted cheese)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp taco sauce or hot sauce (optional)
- 2 large flour tortillas (1 for quesadilla, 1 for wrapping)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup of water, stirring to combine. Simmer until the mixture thickens and flavors meld, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the quesadilla: On one large flour tortilla, evenly sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and place the tortilla in it. Cook until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden and slightly crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
- Assemble the Quesarito: Lay the cooked quesadilla on a large flour tortilla (the wrap). Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the quesadilla, followed by 1/2 cup cooked white rice, diced tomatoes, and chopped lettuce if using. Drizzle with 1/4 cup nacho cheese sauce and 2 tbsp taco or hot sauce if desired. Add dollops of sour cream on top.
- Wrap it up: Carefully roll the large flour tortilla with the quesadilla and beef filling tightly to form a burrito shape. Ensure all ingredients are enclosed to prevent spilling.
- Heat the wrapped Quesarito: Return the rolled Quesarito to the skillet over medium heat. Toast each side for 2-3 minutes until the tortilla is browned and slightly crisp, and the filling is warmed through.
- Serve: Slice the Quesarito in half if desired and serve hot with extra sour cream or salsa on the side.
Notes
- You can customize the filling by adding beans, corn, or guacamole for extra flavor and texture.
- To make it spicier, increase the amount of taco sauce or add jalapeños.
- Use low-fat sour cream or cheese to reduce calories if preferred.
- For vegetarian variation, substitute ground beef with seasoned plant-based meat or beans.
- Ensure the quesadilla tortilla is not overfilled to make wrapping easier.
