Taco Bell Quesarito

Make this Taco Bell Quesarito for a cheesy, crunchy, and delicious copycat recipe. This dish is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual get-togethers with friends. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it brings the excitement of Taco Bell right to your kitchen. Enjoy this standout dish that combines the best of burritos and quesadillas for a truly delightful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Flavor Explosion – The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering taste experience that everyone will love.
• Customizable – Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly – It’s a hit for kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family meals.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This dish can be made in advance and reheated, perfect for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools that will make your preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Rice cooker (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet – Ideal for browning ground beef and sautéing onions evenly.
• Rice cooker – Makes cooking rice effortless, ensuring perfectly fluffy results.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure accuracy while adding spices and liquids, enhancing the flavor balance.

Ingredients

Make this Taco Bell Quesarito for a cheesy, crunchy, and delicious copycat recipe. This was one of our favorite menu items, and now we can make it at home.

For the Beef Filling

• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1/4 cup Water
• 1 Tablespoon Taco Seasoning
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup Onion (chopped)

For the Rice

• 1 1/2 cups Uncooked white Rice
• 2 cups Chicken Broth

For the Sauce Mixture

• 1 cup Chunky Salsa
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream
• 2 teaspoons Chipotle Sauce from can of 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

For Assembly

• 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

How to Make Taco Bell Quesarito

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Then add ground beef along with taco seasoning. Cook until browned. Add ¼ cup of water to help combine flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

If using a rice cooker, combine uncooked white rice with chicken broth according to your cooker’s instructions. If using stovetop method, bring chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan, then add rice. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine chunky salsa with garlic salt, cumin, sour cream, chipotle sauce, chili powder, sugar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Quesaritos

Lay out flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spread about ¼ cup of rice on each tortilla. Top with cooked beef mixture followed by a generous spoonful of sauce mixture. Drizzle with nacho cheese sauce before sprinkling shredded Mexican cheese blend on top.

Step 5: Roll Them Up

Carefully fold in the sides of each tortilla then roll tightly from one end to another like a burrito.

Step 6: Cook Quesaritos

In the same skillet used for beef (add more olive oil if needed), place rolled quesadillas seam-side down. Cook until golden brown on each side; about 3-4 minutes per side.

Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell Quesarito!

How to Serve Taco Bell Quesarito

Serving Taco Bell Quesarito is all about enhancing its deliciousness with the right accompaniments. You can enjoy it in various ways, making each meal a unique experience.

Classic Style

• With Extra Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spices perfectly.
• Salsa on the Side: Fresh salsa can boost the flavor and freshness of your meal, giving it a vibrant touch.

Crunchy Touch

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch. Pair with guacamole for an extra layer of flavor.
• Pickled Jalapeños: Add some heat by serving pickled jalapeños alongside your Quesarito. They add zest and spice that many love.

Healthy Additions

• Fresh Salad: A light salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado provides a refreshing complement to the rich quesadilla.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only enhances taste but also adds healthy fats to your meal.

Meal Prep Style

• Wrap it Up: For an on-the-go option, wrap your Quesarito in foil for easy transport. Perfect for lunch or picnics!
• Plate It Up: For a more formal presentation, serve it plated with garnish like cilantro or lime wedges.

How to Perfect Taco Bell Quesarito

Perfecting your Taco Bell Quesarito at home is simple with a few helpful tips to elevate its flavors and textures.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season the ground beef well. The right amount of taco seasoning makes all the difference.
• Layer Wisely: Start with rice, then meat, followed by cheese and salsa. Layering helps keep everything together.
• Cook Tortillas Properly: Lightly toast tortillas before assembling for a slightly crispy texture that will hold up better.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for a good Mexican cheese blend for melting; this enhances both flavor and creaminess.
• Add Fresh Ingredients: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for extra brightness in every bite.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste preferences; every palate is different!

Best Side Dishes for Taco Bell Quesarito

Pairing side dishes with Taco Bell Quesarito can create a well-rounded meal that satisfies every craving. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice complements the Quesarito perfectly and enhances the overall experience.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer added protein and richness that pairs well with the main dish.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad adds sweetness and crunch, balancing out the savory flavors of the quesadilla.
4. Guacamole Dip: This classic dip provides creaminess and healthy fats, making it an ideal accompaniment.
5. Chili Con Carne: Hearty chili adds depth of flavor and warmth, perfect for those who enjoy a filling meal.
6. Grilled Veggies: Charred vegetables bring a smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish while adding nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Taco Bell Quesarito at home can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect meat cooking: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a bland flavor. Always cook it until fully browned for the best taste.
• Skipping seasoning: Forgetting to season the rice or meat can make your dish dull. Ensure you follow the seasoning amounts and adjust to your preference.
• Using cold ingredients: Using cold cheese or tortillas can prevent them from melting well. Allow cheese to come to room temperature before assembly for better melting.
• Overfilling tortillas: Stuffing too much inside can lead to messy quesadillas. Keep fillings moderate to ensure easy folding and cooking.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out your quesadilla. Follow the suggested cook times closely for perfect results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Taco Bell Quesarito

• Wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Taco Bell Quesarito

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place quesadillas on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a vegetarian version of Taco Bell Quesarito?

You can simply replace the meat with beans or additional vegetables. This keeps the recipe tasty and filling without using meat.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a nutritious alternative, but it may require longer cooking time and more liquid than white rice.

What goes well with Taco Bell Quesarito?

Toppings like guacamole, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños pair perfectly with this dish, enhancing its flavor and freshness.

How can I customize my Taco Bell Quesarito?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as different cheeses, spicy sauces, or various vegetables according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion

The Taco Bell Quesarito is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it suitable for any occasion. Try this recipe at home and enjoy the cheesy, crunchy goodness that everyone loves!

---