Grilled Cheese Burrito Taco Bell

Alright, let’s not kid ourselves—grilled cheese burrito taco bell is a wild ride. It’s cheesy, it’s messy, it’s got crunch and heat and melty beef. It’s the kind of thing you eat once and instantly start craving again three days later. (Or maybe three hours later. No judgment.)

But what actually is this thing? And more importantly—can you make it at home without a deep fryer, drive-thru, or regret?

You bet. And we’re gonna show you exactly how.

This article covers:

• What’s inside Taco Bell’s grilled cheese burrito
• When it came out, and why fans lose their minds when it’s back
• Nutrition info (yes, we’re going there)
• How to make a legit copycat grilled cheese burrito at home
• How to customize it: spicy, vegetarian, gluten-free, you name it

Ready? Let’s cheese it up.

Why the Grilled Cheese Burrito Has Fast Food Fans Obsessed

Taco Bell has a long history of weird, wonderful, occasionally chaotic mashups. The Doritos Locos taco? Iconic. The Quesarito? Controversial. The Mexican Pizza? A comeback queen.

But when they dropped the grilled cheese burrito, things got serious.

People weren’t just into it. They were obsessed.
TikToks. Reddit threads. YouTube reviews. Everyone wanted that melty, toasted, burrito-wrapped madness.

Why?

Because it’s basically comfort food inside more comfort food.

• Cheesy beef and rice on the inside
• More cheese grilled onto the outside
• Crunchy red tortilla strips for texture
• Jalapeño sauce for that creamy kick

And yes, it’s got that “I can’t believe I just ate that whole thing” energy.

Yep, It’s Cheesy, Yep, It’s Toasted, Yep, It’s Wildly Addictive

The first time you bite into it, you’re hit with:

• That crispy cheese layer on the outside
• Creamy spice from the jalapeño sauce
• Melted three-cheese blend in the middle
• Hot, seasoned ground beef and warm rice
• Crunchy red tortilla strips that somehow still hold up

It’s salty, cheesy, creamy, crunchy, and just spicy enough to make you sweat but not cry.

Basically, it’s Taco Bell’s best new item since the Baja Blast.

And if you’re the DIY type? Trust me—you can totally remake this at home with just a skillet and some pantry staples. (Bonus: You can make it vegetarian like this meat-free casserole if you’re on that vibe.)

What Is the Grilled Cheese Burrito at Taco Bell?

Taco Bell isn’t exactly known for subtle food—and the grilled cheese burrito is no exception. It’s a full-on cheese bomb wrapped in a soft tortilla and seared to melty perfection.

The Breakdown: What’s Inside This Melty Monster

Here’s what’s packed inside a grilled cheese burrito from Taco Bell:

• Seasoned beef
• Seasoned rice
• Three-cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack)
• Creamy jalapeño sauce
• Red tortilla strips (for crunch!)
• Nacho cheese sauce
• Rolled into a flour tortilla, then grilled with extra cheese on the outside

It’s like a quesadilla and a burrito had a baby—and fed it nothing but liquid cheese and fire sauce.

When It First Dropped—and Why It Keeps Coming Back

Taco Bell first launched this gooey beast in July 2020, and fans immediately freaked out. It was supposed to be a limited-time deal… but the demand was so real, they kept bringing it back.

Since then, it’s come and gone in waves—sometimes with double steak, sometimes with extra crunch.

And each time it hits menus, TikTok basically breaks.

Hungry for other indulgent comfort food? This million-dollar chicken casserole has that same creamy, salty, cheesy goodness—minus the drive-thru guilt.

What Makes the Grilled Cheese Burrito So Different?

We’ve seen burritos. We’ve seen quesadillas. But this one? It’s in its own league.

That Toasted Cheese on the Outside—Yeah, That’s the Trick

Let’s be honest: the outer cheese crust is what makes this burrito iconic.

Taco Bell takes shredded cheese and grills it onto the outside of the tortilla, so it gets all crispy and caramelized. It’s buttery, golden, and gives the burrito a crunchy edge that’s straight-up addictive.

That texture contrast between the melty inside and the crisp outside?

Creamy Jalapeño Sauce, Rice, and Crunchy Strips Inside

The other MVPs?

• That creamy jalapeño sauce (seriously, why isn’t this in stores?)
• Seasoned rice that bulks it up
• Red tortilla strips that stay crunchy—even inside the burrito

Every bite’s a wild mix of soft, creamy, crunchy, and spicy. It’s the food equivalent of a cheesy rock concert in your mouth.

Grilled Cheese Burrito Taco Bell Nutrition Facts

Look, nobody orders this burrito expecting a salad. But if you’re curious what you’re getting into calorie-wise—we got you.

Calories, Protein, Fat, and Carb Count

Here’s what you’re working with for the standard grilled cheese burrito with beef:

Wanna go double steak? Add another 150–200 calories.

So yeah, it’s definitely a cheat day item. But honestly? Worth it once in a while—especially if you’re craving something cheesy, toasty, and loaded.

Want a cheesy recipe that won’t totally wreck your macros? This chicken and gravy comfort food gives cozy vibes without fast food levels of sodium and grease.

Is It Worth the Cheat Day? (Spoiler: Maybe.)

Here’s the thing—if you’re doing Taco Bell, you’re doing Taco Bell. This burrito:

• Feels decadent without needing fries on the side
• Actually fills you up (it’s heavy!)
• Packs that satisfying combo of crunchy, creamy, spicy, and cheesy

If you’re going to splurge, it might as well be on something that delivers. This one does.

Can You Still Order the Grilled Cheese Burrito at Taco Bell?

Short answer? Sometimes.

When It’s on the Menu vs. When It’s a “Secret” Item

The grilled cheese burrito isn’t always on the core menu. It comes back for limited-time runs throughout the year—but when it’s gone, it’s usually gone-gone.

That said:
Taco Bell has a ton of customization options. You can sometimes build your own version using:

• A burrito base (like the beefy melt)
• Add extra cheese
• Ask for it grilled
• Sub in jalapeño sauce (if they have it)

It’s not 100% the same—but it’s close.

Want more ideas on how to remix what you’ve already got? This leftover rotisserie chicken recipe does just that—easy swaps, full flavor.

How to Customize It In-Store

If they’re not advertising the grilled cheese burrito, try this hack:

1. Order a beef burrito (or Quesarito, if available)
2. Add extra cheese inside AND outside
3. Ask them to grill it like a quesadilla
4. Add jalapeño sauce, nacho cheese, and crunchy strips (if they have them)

Boom—you’re back in business.

How to Make the Taco Bell Grilled Cheese Burrito at Home

Yes—you can totally do this. No, you don’t need a drive-thru.
This copycat version hits all the same notes: melty beef, creamy sauce, crispy cheese crust, and that signature Taco Bell flavor.

Copycat Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what to grab:

For the Burrito:

• 1 large flour tortilla (burrito-size)
• ½ cup seasoned ground beef (Taco Bell style)
• ¼ cup cooked white rice
• ¼ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 2 tbsp nacho cheese sauce
• 2 tbsp creamy jalapeño sauce (store-bought or DIY)
• A small handful of crunchy red tortilla strips (or sub with Doritos if needed)

For the Grilled Cheese Crust:

• ¼ cup shredded cheese (use extra for toasting)
• Butter or spray oil for the pan

Step-by-Step Instructions That Actually Work

1. Cook the beef: Season with taco seasoning. Brown it and set it aside.
2. Lay it out: Warm your tortilla slightly, then layer in this order:
   • Rice
   • Nacho cheese
   • Ground beef
   • Jalapeño sauce
   • Cheese blend
   • Tortilla strips
3. Roll the burrito: Tuck the ends and roll it tight like a pro.
4. Prep the crust: Heat a nonstick skillet with a little butter or spray. Sprinkle a thin layer of cheese directly onto the pan in the shape of your burrito.
5. Sear it: Place the burrito seam-side down on the melting cheese. Let it toast until the outside is golden and crispy.
6. Flip if you’re extra: Want both sides crusted? Flip it and repeat.

Let it rest for a minute before slicing—unless you’re into lava cheese burns (we’ve all been there).

Tips to Get the Cheese Crust Just Right

• Use a nonstick skillet—seriously, this isn’t the time to be brave.
• Let the cheese melt before adding the burrito—this gives that crispy edge.
• Don’t flip too soon! Wait for it to brown and set up.
• Want to go next level? Mix in some cheddar or smoked gouda for extra sharpness.

Want to do this whole meal as a cozy weekend treat? Serve it with a side of this easy black bean soup and you’ve got yourself a full-on Taco Bell–style night, minus the mystery meat.

Homemade vs. Taco Bell: Which Tastes Better?

Let’s be real—Taco Bell’s grilled cheese burrito hits like a freight train. But the homemade version? You control the quality, the spice, the grease, the crunch, all of it.

Flavor, Texture, and Size Comparison

• Flavor: Homemade is richer and cleaner. No weird preservatives or overly salty beef.
• Texture: Homemade wins if you nail the cheese crust. Taco Bell’s version can get soggy during transit.
• Size: Store-bought burritos are hefty. At home, you control the portion.

Is It Cheaper to Make at Home? You Bet.

Taco Bell’s grilled cheese burrito can cost anywhere from $4–$6.
At home? You’ll feed 4 people for the price of 2 burritos. And you can save leftovers for the next day.

Ingredient Breakdown: Sauce, Seasoning, and Fillings

What’s in Taco Bell’s Creamy Jalapeño Sauce?

Their iconic creamy jalapeño sauce is:

• Mayo-based
• Loaded with garlic and tangy jalapeño flavor
• Slightly smoky and spicy

Want to make it at home? Mix:

• Mayo
• Sour cream
• Pickled jalapeños + juice
• Garlic powder + cumin
• Lime juice

Boom. Sauce unlocked.

Rice, Cheese Blend, Beef, and Crunchy Strips

Stick to:

• Parboiled or leftover rice
• Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella)
• Taco-seasoned ground beef
• Tortilla strips or crushed spicy Doritos

It’s all about building layers.

Can You Make It Vegetarian or Spicy? Heck Yeah.

How to Sub Beans or Plant-Based Beef

Swap the meat with:

• Black beans
• Lentils
• Impossible or Beyond crumbles
• Scrambled tofu (yes, really)

Add veggies like grilled peppers or onions to boost it.

Add Heat with Chipotle Sauce, Hot Salsa, or Jalapeños

Turn it up with:

• Extra jalapeño sauce
• Taco Bell hot or fire packets
• Chipotle ranch
• Sliced raw or pickled jalapeños

You can even make a spicy sweet chili version, inspired by this sweet chili salmon.

Best Cheese to Use for That Toasted Outer Layer

Mexican Blend vs. Cheddar vs. Monterey Jack

Go for pre-shredded Mexican blend for ease. Want better melt? Grate cheddar and Monterey Jack yourself.

Don’t go light here—the cheese is the star.

How to Toast Without Burning

1. Start with medium heat
2. Let the cheese melt on the pan before placing the burrito
3. Use a flat spatula to press gently
4. Flip when it starts to crisp and pull up easily

Sides That Go Perfect with a Grilled Cheese Burrito

• Homemade nachos with extra cheese and jalapeños
• Mexican street corn salad
• Loaded sweet potato fries
• Cilantro lime slaw
• Spicy cucumber salad if you want a crunchy, cooling contrast

Grilled Cheese Burrito Taco Bell: What’s in It + How to Make It Better at Home

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• Author: Megan
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 burritos 1x

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Description

Craving Taco Bell’s famous Grilled Cheese Burrito? This easy copycat recipe delivers all the cheesy, beefy goodness with melty cheese inside and grilled on the outside—no drive-thru required.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chipotle sauce or spicy ranch
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for grilling outside)
• Optional: pickled jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips

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Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Add taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Warm tortillas and layer each with beef, rice, nacho cheese, sour cream, chipotle sauce, shredded cheddar and mozzarella, and optional toppings.
4. Roll into burritos tightly and set aside.
5. In a clean skillet, sprinkle shredded cheese in a circular shape. Place burrito seam side down and grill until cheese melts and sticks to the outside. Flip carefully and grill the other side if desired.
6. Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.

Notes

Customize with your favorite fillings like beans, jalapeños, or crunchy chips. Use two spatulas to flip the cheese-grilled burrito without tearing. Perfect for a Taco Bell-style night at home!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 burrito
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 1100mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Conclusion: Why the Grilled Cheese Burrito Slaps (and Why You’ll Want to Make It Yourself)

Let’s wrap it up—literally.

The grilled cheese burrito from Taco Bell hits every flavor button:

• Cheesy
• Crispy
• Spicy
• Gooey

But making it at home? That’s the real flex. You control the spice, the cheese, the size, the sides—and let’s be honest, it’s way more satisfying when you pull it off yourself.

So try it once, and you’ll be making your own cheesy burrito bangers on the regular.