Taco Bell Quesarito Recipe

If you’re a fan of Taco Bell’s menu, you’ve probably heard of the Quesarito—a delightful mashup of a quesadilla and a burrito that has won hearts with its cheesy, savory goodness. Good news: you can now make this fast-food favorite right in your own kitchen! In this article, we’ll guide you through an easy, step-by-step Taco Bell Quesarito recipe that will have you recreating this beloved treat without ever having to leave your house.

What Is a Quesarito?

A Quesarito combines the best of both worlds: a quesadilla’s cheesy, melty exterior with the hearty filling of a burrito. Taco Bell’s version features a warm, grilled quesadilla used as the wrapper for a flavorful burrito filling, offering a delightful contrast in textures and tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make your own Taco Bell Quesarito, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Quesadilla:
• 2 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• For the Burrito Filling:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
• 1/2 cup black beans (cooked or canned)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

How to Make Taco Bell Quesarito

Step 1: Prepare the Quesadilla

1. Heat a Skillet: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Assemble the Quesadilla: On one flour tortilla, sprinkle a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Place the second tortilla on top.
3. Cook the Quesadilla: Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Burrito Filling

1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and follow the instructions on the packet, usually adding water and simmering until thickened.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the seasoned beef with cooked rice, black beans, and cilantro if using.

Step 3: Assemble the Quesarito

1. Spread the Nacho Cheese Sauce: Spread a layer of nacho cheese sauce in the center of the quesadilla.
2. Add the Filling: Spoon the beef and rice mixture over the nacho cheese sauce.
3. Top with Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream on top of the filling.
4. Roll and Wrap: Carefully fold the quesadilla over the filling and roll it up tightly, like a burrito.

Step 4: Grill the Quesarito

1. Heat the Skillet: Place the skillet back over medium heat.
2. Grill the Quesarito: Place the wrapped Quesarito seam-side down in the skillet. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the quesadilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.

Tips for the Perfect Quesarito

• Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as guacamole or shredded lettuce, to personalize your Quesarito.
• Use Fresh Tortillas: For the best texture, use fresh flour tortillas.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy your Quesarito while it’s warm for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion

Making Taco Bell’s Quesarito at home is a fun and delicious way to enjoy this fast-food favorite anytime you want. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can recreate the cheesy, savory goodness of the Quesarito right in your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy!

Serving and Storage Tips for Your Homemade Quesarito

Serving Tips

1. Hot and Fresh: Serve your Quesarito immediately after grilling to enjoy its crispy exterior and melted, gooey interior. This will ensure the best texture and flavor.
2. Garnish: Enhance the dish with your favorite garnishes such as chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños. A sprinkle of extra cheese or a drizzle of extra nacho cheese sauce can also add an extra layer of indulgence.
3. Accompaniments: Pair your Quesarito with classic sides like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. A fresh salad or some crispy tortilla chips make great additions to complete your meal.
4. Cutting: For easier eating, cut your Quesarito into halves or quarters before serving. This is especially helpful if you’re serving it as part of a larger spread or to a group.
5. Wrap Presentation: If you’re serving a crowd, consider cutting the Quesaritos into smaller pieces and arranging them on a platter. This makes them easy to pick up and enjoy at parties or gatherings.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover Quesarito in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked Quesaritos. Wrap each Quesarito tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
3. Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen Quesaritos, use an oven or toaster oven rather than a microwave to preserve the crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the Quesarito for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If microwaving, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out, heating on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
4. Avoid Soggy Tortillas: To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy during storage, try to keep the filling separate from the quesadilla wrapper when possible, especially if you plan to store leftovers for a while.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade Quesarito at its best, whether you’re savoring it fresh or reheating leftovers!

1. Can I use different types of cheese for the Quesarito?

Absolutely! While the classic Taco Bell Quesarito uses a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, you can experiment with other types of cheese according to your preference. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a mix of different cheeses can add unique flavors and melt beautifully.

2. Can I make a vegetarian version of the Quesarito?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian Quesarito by replacing the ground beef with your favorite meat substitutes or additional vegetables. Options include black beans, pinto beans, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled veggies. You can also add extra cheese and avocado for added richness.

3. How can I make my Quesarito spicier?

To add some heat to your Quesarito, you can include sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa in the filling. For an extra kick, try mixing some chili powder or cayenne pepper into the taco seasoning. Adjust the spice level to your taste preference!

4. Can I prepare the Quesarito ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components of the Quesarito ahead of time. Cook the quesadilla and burrito filling separately, then store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the filling and assemble the Quesarito. Alternatively, you can assemble and freeze the Quesaritos before grilling, then cook them from frozen. Adjust cooking times as needed.