Grilled cheese burritos have a special place in my heart. The combination of melted cheese, seasoned beef, and zesty sauces all rolled up in a warm tortilla is something that feels like home. Making these burritos is straightforward, perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a cozy Sunday lunch. They might even become a favorite staple in your house thanks to the delightful fusion of flavors and textures they offer!
What sets this dish apart is the crispy, cheesy exterior achieved through grilling, which contrasts beautifully with the soft, savory filling. The harmony of the spiced beef, creamy sour cream, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any occasion—family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even as a satisfying snack.
"This burrito is a game changer for dinner!"
Why you’ll love this
- Quick to make, perfect for busy nights.
- Crispy edges with a gooey, cheesy center.
- Minimal clean-up since it’s all in one dish.
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
- Budget-friendly meal that satisfies hungry appetites.
Step-by-step overview
Preparing this dish involves browning the ground beef, seasoning it, and warming the tortillas to build a flavorful burrito that’s grilled until perfectly crispy. Each bite reveals layers of juicy meat, fluffy rice, and creamy sauces, all while being encased in a delightful melted cheese crust.
What you’ll need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
- 1/4 cup chipotle sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Butter or oil for grilling
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Ground Beef: Can be replaced with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Taco Seasoning: Homemade blends work well, allowing you to control the spice level.
- Rice: Use brown rice for a healthier alternative or couscous as a different base.
- Cheese: Experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
How to make it
Making grilled cheese burritos is straightforward and quick, a process that is as enjoyable as it is delicious. Here’s how to do it:
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, about 8–10 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning along with 1/4 cup of water, allowing it to simmer for 5 minutes until well combined and flavorful.
Warm the Tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas either on a dry skillet or in the microwave to ensure they’re flexible and easy to roll.
Assemble the Burrito: Lay a warmed tortilla flat on a plate. Layer it with a scoop of cooked white rice, a generous portion of the seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, chipotle sauce, and a dollop of sour cream. Don’t hold back on the cheese—sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella generously on top.
Grill the Burrito: In a clean skillet, heat a little butter or oil. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese directly in the pan. Place the burrito seam-side down on top of the cheese and cook until the cheese melts and creates a crispy crust, roughly 3–4 minutes. Carefully flip and repeat on the other side until both sides are golden and crispy.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t rush the beef: Allow the ground beef to brown fully for the best flavor.
- Keep your tortillas warm: This prevents tearing when assembling.
- Use a hot skillet: For optimal crispiness, ensure your pan is preheated before adding the burrito.
- Experiment with fillings: Add veggies like bell peppers or beans for more nutrition.
Serving suggestions
Serve your grilled cheese burritos with a side of fresh guacamole, salsa, or chips for an extra crunch. Garnish with some chopped cilantro or jalapeños for additional flavor. The yummy combination of textures and flavors creates an overall delightful dining experience.
Storage & reheating tips
To keep your grilled cheese burritos fresh, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, a skillet is recommended to revive the crispiness without drying them out. If you want to freeze them, wrap them individually before placing them in the freezer.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
- If your burrito is dry: Ensure you don’t overcook the beef. More sauce can also help.
- For soggy fillings: Avoid overloading the burrito with sauces; less is more.
- If the cheese won’t melt: Make sure your skillet is hot enough and that you’re using freshly shredded cheese for best results.
- Problems with tearing: Warm the tortillas adequately, and don’t overstuff them.
Recipe variations
Add a twist to your grilled cheese burrito with variations like replacing the ground beef with shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian option. You can also add sautéed onions and peppers for more flavor. Consider using different kinds of cheese, like feta or gorgonzola, to create unique flavor profiles, or try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a refreshing touch.
Common questions
Can I use any type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded pork can make a delicious substitution.
How long do they take to prepare?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes, making it a quick weeknight supper option.
What can I serve with grilled cheese burritos?
Serve them with your favorite salsas, sour cream, or fresh guacamole. They pair well with a simple salad for added freshness.
Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them in advance, wrap them well, and store them in the fridge. Just grill them when you are ready to serve.
Are they kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the gooey cheese and customizable nature of burritos. You can let them pick their preferred fillings and toppings!
The next time you’re looking for a meal that’s not only filling but also packed with flavor, these grilled cheese burritos are a perfect choice. With their delightful blend of textures and tastes, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the process and make it your own, savoring every bite along the way!
Grilled Cheese Burritos
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, about 8–10 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning along with 1/4 cup of water, allowing it to simmer for 5 minutes until well combined and flavorful.
- Heat the flour tortillas either on a dry skillet or in the microwave to ensure they’re flexible and easy to roll.
- Lay a warmed tortilla flat on a plate. Layer it with a scoop of cooked white rice, a generous portion of the seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, chipotle sauce, and a dollop of sour cream. Don’t hold back on the cheese—sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella generously on top.
- In a clean skillet, heat a little butter or oil. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese directly in the pan. Place the burrito seam-side down on top of the cheese and cook until the cheese melts and creates a crispy crust, roughly 3–4 minutes. Carefully flip and repeat on the other side until both sides are golden and crispy.