High-protein taco bell quesarito copycat recipe with melted cheese and beef

Easy High-Protein Taco Bell Quesarito Copycat Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal, this Easy High-Protein Taco Bell Quesarito Copycat Recipe is a perfect choice! It’s not only packed with flavor but also provides a great amount of protein, making it a fantastic option for lunch or dinner. Let’s get started!

Why make this recipe

This recipe lets you enjoy a beloved fast-food favorite right in the comfort of your own home. It’s easy to prepare, fun to assemble, and tastes just as good—if not better—than the original. Plus, you can customize it to your liking, making it a versatile and unique dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 Tbsp. lime juice
  • 2 Tbsp. finely chopped cilantro
  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup Nacho Cheese Sauce
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

How to make it

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
  2. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well and set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, lime juice, and cilantro.
  4. Prepare the quesadilla layer by placing a tortilla in a clean skillet, sprinkling with 1/4 of the cheddar cheese, and topping with a second tortilla.
  5. Cook until golden brown and cheese is melted. Repeat for 4 quesadillas.
  6. Assemble the burrito by placing a scoop of beef, rice, a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce, and a dollop of sour cream in the center of the quesadilla.
  7. Fold in the sides of the quesadilla and roll it up tightly into a burrito shape.
  8. Sear the finished burrito in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to seal and crisp the exterior.

How to serve it

Slice your finished Quesarito in half for a satisfying presentation. Serve it with extra sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side for added flavor and enjoyment.

How to store it

If you have leftovers, wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet to restore its crispiness.

Helpful tips

  • Make sure to brown the beef thoroughly for the best flavor.
  • Adjust spices according to your heat preference; add more chili powder for extra kick.
  • Don’t rush the cooking of the quesadillas; let them get nice and crispy for the perfect texture.

Optional variations

  • Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Add beans or corn to the rice mixture for some added texture and flavor.
  • Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or a pepper jack for added spice.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils, quinoa, or your favorite plant-based protein.

How do I ensure the quesadilla doesn’t fall apart?
Make sure to seal the burrito tightly after assembling, and give it a good sear to help keep everything together.

Can I make this ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can assemble the Quesarito and store it in the fridge for a day before searing it. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

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Easy High-Protein Taco Bell Quesarito Copycat

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Enjoy a delicious and satisfying Taco Bell Quesarito right at home with this easy high-protein copycat recipe.

  • Author: isabella-reed
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 Tbsp. lime juice
  • 2 Tbsp. finely chopped cilantro
  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup Nacho Cheese Sauce
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
  2. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well and set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, lime juice, and cilantro.
  4. Prepare the quesadilla layer by placing a tortilla in a clean skillet, sprinkling with 1/4 of the cheddar cheese, and topping with a second tortilla.
  5. Cook until golden brown and cheese is melted. Repeat for 4 quesadillas.
  6. Assemble the burrito by placing a scoop of beef, rice, a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce, and a dollop of sour cream in the center of the quesadilla.
  7. Fold in the sides of the quesadilla and roll it up tightly into a burrito shape.
  8. Sear the finished burrito in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to seal and crisp the exterior.

Notes

Slice your finished Quesarito in half for presentation. Serve with extra sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Quesarito
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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