Name: Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex‑Mex / American
Ingredients: 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size); 1 lb ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2‑3 tbsp homemade seasoning); 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup nacho cheese sauce, warmed; ½ cup sour cream; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (for filling & grilling); 2 tbsp oil or butter (for grilling)

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This Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat brings the bold, cheesy, indulgent flavors I crave right into my own kitchen. Inspired by the popular fast-food version, it’s packed with seasoned beef, rice, nacho cheese, sour cream, and a layer of melted cheese grilled right onto the outside of the tortilla. It’s everything I love in a burrito—wrapped up and toasted to perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this burrito delivers that perfect mix of cheesy, meaty, and creamy in every bite. It’s satisfying, easy to throw together, and tastes just like the original—maybe even better. The crispy cheese crust on the outside adds a texture that takes this burrito over the top. Plus, I can customize it however I want. Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large flour tortillas
Ground beef
Taco seasoning
Cooked rice
Nacho cheese sauce
Sour cream
Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
Oil or butter (for grilling)

Directions

I cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. I let it simmer until thickened.
I warm the nacho cheese sauce and cook the rice if I haven’t already.
I lay a large tortilla on a flat surface and layer the fillings in the center: seasoned beef, rice, nacho cheese, a spoonful of sour cream, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
I fold in the sides and roll it up tightly like a burrito.
In a skillet over medium heat, I sprinkle some shredded cheese directly into the pan and place the burrito seam-side down on top.
I let it cook until the cheese on the outside is melted and golden brown, then carefully flip and grill the other side if I want it extra crispy.
I remove it from the skillet, let it cool for a minute, then slice and serve.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I switch things up with spicy ground turkey or shredded chicken. I’ve also added black beans or jalapeños inside for more heat and texture. For a vegetarian version, I skip the meat and load it with beans, sautéed peppers, and extra cheese.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I wrap them tightly and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the burrito in a skillet over medium heat and warm it until the outside crisps up again and the filling is hot. I avoid microwaving if I want to keep that grilled cheese crust crispy. Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat

FAQs

What kind of cheese works best for the outside?

I use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack. They melt well and give a perfect crust. Pre-shredded works, but freshly grated gives the best melt.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, but I’ve also made my own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

How do I keep the burrito from falling apart?

I roll it tightly and make sure the seam is down when grilling. Letting it rest a minute before slicing helps it stay together.

Is the grilled cheese layer necessary?

Not at all—but it’s what makes this burrito unique. I’ve made them without it, but the crispy cheese crust really elevates the whole thing.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble them ahead and store in the fridge. I just grill them fresh when I’m ready to eat for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Grilled Cheese Burrito Copycat gives me all the flavor and comfort of the original without the drive-thru. It’s loaded, cheesy, and crispy in all the right ways—just how I like my burritos.