In a move that’s equal parts fan service and playful redemption, Taco Bell is bringing back its beloved Quesarito for a limited time starting December 18, 2025. The iconic menu item, a burrito wrapped in a grilled quesadilla, returns nationwide after years of fervent fan demands—and with a cheeky invitation to Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokić to finally give it a try.
The Quesarito first debuted in 2014 as one of Taco Bell’s boldest innovations: seasoned beef, seasoned rice, creamy chipotle sauce, and reduced-fat sour cream, all rolled into a burrito and enveloped in a grilled quesadilla loaded with melted three-cheese blend and nacho cheese sauce. It quickly became a cult favorite, defining an era of menu mashups.
After its removal from menus (fully discontinued from the app in 2023), fans never let it go. Petitions circulated, social media buzzed with pleas, and homemade hacks proliferated. “We heard our fans loud and clear,” said Luis Restrepo, Taco Bell’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Their passion turned the Quesarito into a Taco Bell legend.”
Priced at $4.99, the Quesarito is back just in time for the holidays. For Taco Bell Rewards members, there’s an extra treat: The first 30,000 can snag it for $1 during a special Tuesday Drop on December 23 at 2 p.m. PT, exclusively via the app.
The Quesarito’s story is inextricably linked to one of the internet’s most enduring memes. Back in the 2014 NBA Draft, as the Denver Nuggets selected Serbian big man Nikola Jokić with the 41st pick, ESPN cut to a commercial break—featuring a Taco Bell ad hyping the brand-new Quesarito. Jokić’s name flashed briefly on a chyron at the bottom of the screen, while viewers watched a full spot about the cheesy hybrid.
Jokić himself has leaned into the humor over the years, once revealing he’d never tried Taco Bell “because of that” infamous connection. Now, with the Quesarito’s revival, Taco Bell is embracing the lore head-on: issuing a lighthearted apology and challenging the Nuggets center to take his first bite.
“This comeback’s for you, Jokić,” the brand declared in its announcement.
True to his famously dry wit, Jokić wasn’t swayed. When asked if he’d finally sample the Quesarito, he replied: “No. It’s nice they’re finally apologizing. But no.”
Whether the Joker changes his mind remains the internet’s burning question. Taco Bell is encouraging fans to follow @TacoBell for updates on this ongoing saga.
For now, fans can rejoice in the Quesarito’s return—a delicious holiday gift wrapped in layers of cheese, nostalgia, and one unforgettable crossover moment. Head to your local Taco Bell starting tomorrow, or fire up the app for that $1 deal.
