If you’re a fan of gooey, melty cheese and hearty, flavor-packed burritos, then the Grilled Cheese Burrito is your ultimate dream food. This delicious fusion of two comfort-food classics—a grilled cheese sandwich and a burrito—creates a mouthwatering experience that hits all the right notes. Whether you’ve seen it at Taco Bell or you’re looking to make it at home, you’re in for a cheesy, crispy, and satisfying treat.
In this guide, we’re going all in on the Grilled Cheese Burrito—where it came from, why it’s so popular, what goes into making one, and how you can create the ultimate homemade version. Grab a napkin because things are about to get extra cheesy!
What Is a Grilled Cheese Burrito?
Before we jump into the delicious details, let’s answer the obvious question: What exactly is a Grilled Cheese Burrito?
Imagine this: a warm flour tortilla stuffed with seasoned beef (or your choice of protein), creamy nacho cheese sauce, crispy red tortilla strips, sour cream, and rice—all wrapped up burrito-style. But here’s the twist—the outside of the burrito is coated with a crispy, grilled cheese layer. That’s right, cheese on the inside and outside!
This masterpiece was popularized by Taco Bell, but it’s also a dish you can easily make at home with a little creativity and a love for melted cheese.
The Origins of the Grilled Cheese Burrito
Where Did This Genius Idea Come From?
While Taco Bell introduced the Grilled Cheese Burrito as a limited-time offering, the concept of cheese-coated tortillas has been around for a while. People have been experimenting with grilled cheese techniques and burritos separately for decades. This particular creation takes Tex-Mex flavors and combines them with the comforting nostalgia of a grilled cheese sandwich.
Taco Bell first launched the Grilled Cheese Burrito in 2020, and it was an instant hit. The limited-time release had people buzzing, and due to high demand, Taco Bell brought it back multiple times. It has since become a fan-favorite, sparking homemade recreations and even menu hacks to keep the cheesy love going.
“The Grilled Cheese Burrito is the lovechild of two legendary comfort foods, proving that more cheese is always the answer.”
Why Is It So Popular?
There are plenty of reasons why people are obsessed with the Grilled Cheese Burrito, and it’s not just because Taco Bell fans love limited-time items.
1. It’s the Perfect Comfort Food Combo
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, grilled cheese-covered tortilla that’s loaded with seasoned meat, creamy cheese, and crunchy chips. It hits all the right textures—crispy, gooey, and soft—while delivering bold, savory flavors.
2. It’s Instagram-Worthy
Let’s be real—food aesthetics matter these days. The cheesy, golden-brown exterior makes the Grilled Cheese Burrito a showstopper. One good cheese pull, and boom—you’ve got social media gold.
3. Customization is Endless
People love personalizing their food, and the Grilled Cheese Burrito offers plenty of room for customization. Swap beef for chicken, steak, or even a vegetarian filling, add extra heat with jalapeños, or make it extra indulgent with more cheese and sauce.
“The best thing about the Grilled Cheese Burrito? You can make it your own—add, swap, and stuff it however you like!”
Ingredients Needed for a Perfect Grilled Cheese Burrito
Essential Ingredients
Before you roll up your sleeves and start grilling, let’s talk about what goes into making the perfect Grilled Cheese Burrito. Here’s a list of must-have ingredients:
Flour Tortillas – The base of your burrito. Bigger is better to hold all the fillings.
Shredded Cheese – A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack works best for that gooey melt.
Seasoned Ground Beef (or Chicken/Steak) – Taco-seasoned meat gives it that bold, savory kick.
Nacho Cheese Sauce – The secret to ultimate creaminess inside the burrito.
Sour Cream – For that smooth, tangy balance.
Crispy Red Tortilla Strips – These add the perfect crunch factor.
Cooked Rice – A burrito staple for extra heartiness.
Butter or Oil – To get that crispy, golden cheese crust on the outside.
Best Cheese for a Grilled Cheese Burrito
Cheese is the star of the show, so choosing the right one matters. Here are some top choices:
Cheddar – Classic, sharp, and flavorful.
Monterey Jack – Super melty with a mild taste.
Mozzarella – Gives that stretchy cheese pull.
Colby Jack – A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, perfect for melting.
For an even creamier and bolder cheese experience, consider pairing your burrito with Chorizo Queso Dip—its rich, melty goodness makes the perfect dipping sauce!
If you’re a cheese lover looking for more indulgent recipes, try these Easy 5-Step Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, which pack a similar crispy, gooey cheese experience in bite-sized form.
Want more meaty and cheesy combinations? These 10 Best Steak and Pasta Recipes showcase how different cheeses pair with hearty steak flavors—great inspiration if you’re swapping beef in your burrito!
For an extra cheesy meal idea, try the Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice recipe, a slow-cooked comfort dish loaded with melty goodness.
Customizing Your Burrito with Add-Ons
Want to take things up a notch? Here are some next-level additions to make your burrito even better:
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy ranch drizzle.
Extra Indulgent: Throw in crispy bacon or more cheese.
Healthy Twist: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or add guacamole.
How to Make a Grilled Cheese Burrito at Home
Making a Grilled Cheese Burrito at home is surprisingly easy, and the best part? You can customize it exactly how you like! Whether you want it extra cheesy, spicier, or even vegetarian, you’re in full control. Let’s break it down step by step so you can create the ultimate crispy, cheesy, flavor-packed burrito in your own kitchen.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
What You’ll Need:
Before we get into the magic of cooking, let’s make sure you have everything ready.
Ingredients:
- 1 large flour tortilla (burrito-sized)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- ½ cup cooked and seasoned ground beef (or your choice of protein)
- ¼ cup cooked rice (optional, but adds texture)
- 2 tbsp nacho cheese sauce
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- 2 tbsp crispy red tortilla strips (for crunch)
- 1 tbsp butter or oil (for grilling)
Equipment:
Large skillet or frying pan
Spatula
Small bowl for melting cheese
Aluminum foil (optional for wrapping)
Step 1: Prepare Your Filling
Start by cooking and seasoning your ground beef (or any protein you’re using). If you’re using leftover taco meat, even better! Make sure it’s warm before assembling.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, mix your meat with a little taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb all that flavor.
Step 2: Warm Up Your Tortilla
Place your flour tortilla on a dry, hot skillet for about 10 seconds per side to make it more flexible. This prevents it from tearing when you roll your burrito later.
Pro Tip: If your tortilla feels stiff, wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15 seconds to soften it.
Step 3: Assemble Your Burrito
Now, let’s load it up! In the center of your tortilla, layer your ingredients in this order:
Spread the nacho cheese sauce for creaminess.
Add the seasoned beef.
Spoon on the cooked rice (if using).
Top with crispy tortilla strips for that extra crunch.
Drizzle with sour cream for a cool, tangy balance.
“Layering your ingredients properly is key! You don’t want one big bite of just rice and another of just meat—spread them out evenly.”
Once everything is in place, carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom, keeping the fillings secure.
Step 4: Create the Crispy Cheese Layer
Here’s where the magic happens! The secret to the Grilled Cheese Burrito’s signature crispy, cheesy crust is simple:
Sprinkle shredded cheese directly onto a hot skillet.
Let it melt for about 20 seconds—you’ll see it start to bubble and crisp up.
Place your burrito seam-side down onto the cheese.
Press down gently with a spatula and let it cook for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese sticks and forms a golden crust.
“This step is what makes the Grilled Cheese Burrito special. The crispy, cheesy outer layer adds an insane amount of flavor and crunch!”
Flip your burrito carefully and let it cook for another minute on the other side. You’re aiming for a beautifully golden-brown, crispy cheese shell.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the burrito from the skillet, let it cool for a minute, then slice it in half for the ultimate cheese pull. Pair it with:
Extra nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
Guacamole for a fresh, creamy balance.
Salsa or hot sauce for extra heat.
And just like that, you’ve made your very own homemade Grilled Cheese Burrito!
Common Problems and Solutions When Making a Grilled Cheese Burrito
Like any amazing homemade dish, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some of the most common problems people face—and how to fix them.
1. Why Is My Cheese Not Melting Properly?
Possible Causes:
Using the wrong cheese (low-moisture cheeses don’t melt well).
Cooking on too high heat (burns the outside before cheese melts).
How to Fix It:
Use cheeses that melt easily, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella.
Cook on medium-low heat to allow the cheese to melt gradually.
“The key to perfect melty cheese is patience—low and slow wins the race!”
2. How to Prevent a Soggy Burrito?
Possible Causes:
Overloading with too much sauce.
Not toasting the tortilla before assembling.
Using watery ingredients (like fresh tomatoes).
How to Fix It:
Lightly toast the tortilla before assembling to create a barrier against moisture.
Use less sauce inside and serve extra on the side.
Drain any excess liquid from ingredients before adding them.
3. My Burrito Keeps Falling Apart!
Possible Causes:
Rolling the burrito too loosely.
Overstuffing with too many ingredients.
How to Fix It:
When rolling, tuck in the sides first, then roll it tightly from the bottom up.
Don’t overload it—less is more when it comes to a well-structured burrito!
“Think of rolling a burrito like wrapping a gift—neat folds and a snug fit make all the difference!”
Grilled Cheese Burrito Variations
One of the best things about the Grilled Cheese Burrito is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to spice things up, make it healthier, or swap in different proteins, there’s a version for everyone. Let’s check out some creative variations!
1. Spicy Grilled Cheese Burrito
If you love heat, this one’s for you! Here’s how to amp up the spice level:
Swap the regular beef for spicy chorizo or chipotle-seasoned chicken.
Add jalapeños or habanero slices inside the burrito.
Use spicy nacho cheese sauce instead of regular cheese.
Drizzle with hot sauce—options like Sriracha, Tabasco, or ghost pepper sauce work great.
“If your mouth isn’t on fire, did you even make a spicy burrito?”
2. Vegetarian & Vegan Grilled Cheese Burrito
You don’t need meat to enjoy this cheesy goodness! Here’s how to make a vegetarian or vegan version:
Replace the beef with black beans, refried beans, or plant-based crumbles.
Use dairy-free cheese for that crispy grilled cheese layer (Daiya, Violife, or homemade cashew cheese).
Swap sour cream for dairy-free alternatives (like cashew or coconut-based options).
Add more veggies like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and avocado for extra texture.
“Meatless doesn’t mean flavorless—this version is just as delicious and satisfying!”
3. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Grilled Cheese Burrito
Craving a Grilled Cheese Burrito but want to keep it keto-friendly? No problem! Here’s how:
Swap the flour tortilla for a cheese wrap (literally just melted, crisped-up cheese!).
Use extra protein (double the beef, chicken, or steak).
Go extra cheesy—replace the rice with more shredded cheese.
Add bacon or guacamole for extra flavor and fats.
“Who needs carbs when you can have ALL the cheese?!”
Where to Buy the Best Grilled Cheese Burrito
If you don’t feel like making one at home, don’t worry—there are plenty of places where you can grab a delicious Grilled Cheese Burrito.
1. Taco Bell’s Grilled Cheese Burrito
Taco Bell introduced this masterpiece in 2020, and it has made multiple comebacks since. However, it’s often a limited-time item, so keep an eye on the menu.
Price: Around $3.99 – $5.99 (varies by location).
Availability: Limited-time, but you can often ask to customize a burrito to be grilled with extra cheese on the outside.
“Taco Bell’s version is great, but if it’s not available, try making it yourself—it’s even better homemade!”
2. Finding Local Restaurants with a Similar Version
If Taco Bell isn’t an option, many Tex-Mex and fusion restaurants have their own cheesy grilled burrito variations.
Look for taquerias or Mexican restaurants that offer customizable burritos.
Check food trucks—many have unique burrito options, and some might offer a cheesy crust.
Try sandwich shops—some places make grilled cheese burritos as a secret menu item!
Nutritional Information: Is the Grilled Cheese Burrito Healthy?
Let’s be honest—the Grilled Cheese Burrito is indulgent, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it in moderation. Here’s a nutritional breakdown of the standard Taco Bell version:
Calories: ~710-740
Protein: ~25g
Carbs: ~65g
Fat: ~38g
Sodium: ~1200mg
How to Make a Healthier Version
If you want to lighten things up, here are some simple tweaks:
Use a whole wheat or low-carb tortilla instead of a regular flour tortilla.
Go for reduced-fat cheese or cut down on the amount.
Swap beef for grilled chicken or turkey for a leaner protein.
Load up on veggies to add fiber and nutrients.
“Balance is key—enjoy your burrito, but maybe pair it with a side of veggies instead of fries!”
Pairing Suggestions: What Goes Well with a Grilled Cheese Burrito?
A Grilled Cheese Burrito is already packed with flavor, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can take your meal to the next level.
Best Sides and Dips
Chips & Salsa – Classic and crunchy, the perfect contrast to a cheesy burrito.
Guacamole & Queso Dip – Extra creamy goodness!
Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – A flavorful, tangy side dish that pairs beautifully.
Black Beans or Refried Beans – A protein-packed side for a more filling meal.
“Dipping your Grilled Cheese Burrito in queso is next-level indulgence. Try it at least once!”
Best Drinks to Complement the Flavor
Horchata – A sweet, cinnamon-flavored rice milk drink that balances out the spice.
Margaritas or Micheladas – If you’re going for an adult pairing, these work great!
Mexican Coke or Jarritos – These sodas are sweeter and pair perfectly with a cheesy, salty burrito.
Iced Tea or Lemonade – A refreshing way to cleanse the palate.
Fun Facts About the Grilled Cheese Burrito
Just for fun, here are some cool facts about this legendary burrito!
The Grilled Cheese Burrito was originally meant to be a limited-time item, but demand kept bringing it back.
TikTok and Instagram helped it go viral—foodies love that crispy cheese shell!
You can custom-order it at Taco Bell, even when it’s not on the menu. Just ask for a burrito grilled with extra cheese on the outside.
Some Taco Bell locations have a spicy version with jalapeños melted into the cheese crust!
“People LOVE cheese, and when you combine it with a burrito, it’s basically food heaven!”
Conclusion: Why You Should Try a Grilled Cheese Burrito Today
Whether you’re making it at home, grabbing one from Taco Bell, or hunting for a local restaurant with a cheesy burrito on the menu, the Grilled Cheese Burrito is a must-try. It’s crispy, melty, crunchy, and totally satisfying—everything a comfort food should be!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some cheese, fire up the skillet, and make your own Grilled Cheese Burrito today!