Best Grilled Cheese Burrito

Craving something that is crispy outside gooey inside and loaded with big flavors This grilled cheese burrito recipe is my family’s go to answer for weeknight Tex Mex cravings Imagine stretchy melted cheese packed with seasoned beef fried rice and crunch all wrapped up in a golden tortilla

The last time I made these we all hovered over the skillet just waiting for that crispy cheese smell filling the kitchen These burritos remind me of late night taco runs but better

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose 80 20 for juicy flavorful filling and brown well for best texture
• Olive oil: Helps the beef sauté and brings a little richness
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth use a fresh firm onion for best results
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning balance taste as you go
• Smoked paprika: Brings a whisper of smokiness opt for Spanish paprika if you have it
• Dried oregano: Gives a light herby kick use Mexican oregano for authenticity
• Tomato sauce: Creates a saucy flavor packed beef base passata works too
• Large flour tortillas: Look for soft pliable ones so you can wrap them tightly without tearing
• Spicy mayo: Adds tang and heat I love using sriracha mayo for an extra kick choose a creamy mayo as your base
• Fried rice: Soaks up sauce and adds body left over rice works perfectly
• Nacho cheese sauce: Brings the ultra creamy cheesy factor choose one with real cheddar for flavor
• Sour cream: Cools the spice and adds creaminess buy full fat for extra richness
• Tortilla chips: Brings crunch pile into the center for texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the finely diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes Stir often until the onion is translucent and soft This base brings sweetness and sets the stage for the whole burrito

Cook the Ground Beef:

Add ground beef to the skillet and use a spatula to break it up Let it brown thoroughly stirring only when needed so you get little crispy bits Season with salt smoked paprika and oregano as the beef cooks Let those spices toast for one minute to release their flavor

Simmer with Tomato Sauce:

Pour in the tomato sauce and lower the heat to medium low Simmer for 5 minutes This step melds the spices and liquid so every bite is juicy and deeply seasoned

Assemble each Burrito:

Lay flour tortillas flat on a clean surface Spread a line of spicy mayo down the center Add a generous scoop of fried rice then drizzle with nacho cheese sauce Spoon on a dollop of sour cream sprinkle tortilla chips over top and finish with a hearty scoop of beef

Roll and Grill with Cheese:

Fold in both short sides then roll up tightly from the bottom making sure filling stays centered For crispy grilled cheese finish sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese blend onto a hot skillet Place the burrito seam side down onto cheese and press lightly Let it sizzle for 2 or 3 minutes per side until you get a fragrant golden crust

Serve and Enjoy:

Slice the burritos if desired and serve piping hot with extra spicy mayo for dipping

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Nacho cheese sauce always steals the show for me Each time I open a fresh jar I think of the family taco nights growing up The first time I made these burritos my daughter declared them even better than takeout and now they are in our regular dinner rotation

Storage Tips

Burritos can be wrapped tightly in foil and refrigerated for up to three days To reheat place on a skillet over low heat until warmed through for the crispiest results I do not recommend microwaving or the crispy cheese crust will soften

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have ground beef substitute shredded rotisserie chicken or try black beans for a vegetarian spin No nacho cheese sauce Use extra shredded cheese and melt it in before rolling Swap spicy mayo with plain mayo mixed with your favorite hot sauce

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burritos with a side of homemade guacamole or simple pico de gallo and extra tortilla chips They also pair perfectly with a crunchy slaw or grilled vegetables for a fresh balance

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Cultural Context

This recipe draws inspiration from classic Tex Mex street food blending American grilled cheese flair with stuffed burrito tradition Dishes like this have roots in Mexican American communities where innovative cooks turned leftovers and pantry staples into something craveable and fun

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese works best for a grilled burrito?

A melting cheese such as nacho cheese sauce or a Mexican cheese blend creates a creamy, oozy filling and a golden crust.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, try ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for a different flavor or to fit dietary needs.

→ How do I get the outside of the burrito crispy?

Grill the burritos seam-side down in a hot skillet with a sprinkle of shredded cheese until golden and crisp on all sides.

→ Can the burritos be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate them in advance. Grill just before serving for best texture and taste.

→ What sides pair well with these burritos?

Fresh salsa, simple guacamole, or a light salad complement the rich and savory flavors of the burrito.