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Craving comfort food with a twist This Grilled Cheese Burrito brings together all the best parts of Tex-Mex and classic American grilled cheese in under half an hour With layers of melty cheese savory beef creamy sauces and a buttery crispy crust every bite is a restaurant favorite at home
When I made this the first time it disappeared faster than anything else on the table My family now begs for it whenever we need something hearty and fast
Gather Your Ingredients
- Ground beef: rich and savory choose 80 or 85 percent lean for the juiciest results
- Taco seasoning: packs in all the Tex-Mex spice flavors look for a blend with smoked paprika and cumin without excess salt
- Cooked white rice: fills out the burrito and soaks up flavors use day old rice for the best texture
- Sour cream: adds coolness and creaminess go for full fat for the best flavor
- Nacho cheese sauce: creates that irresistible creamy layer a store bought jar works or try homemade for extra zip
- Chipotle sauce: brings smoky heat taste before using some are spicier than others
- Shredded cheddar cheese: gives sharp classic melt opt for block cheese and shred fresh for best melt
- Shredded mozzarella: melts into long strings of gooey cheese fresh shredding works best here as well
- Large flour tortillas: use burrito size tortillas for easy wrapping choose soft and fresh ones
- Butter or oil for grilling: creates a golden crust and extra flavor always heat in a clean nonstick skillet
How to Make It
- Cook the Beef:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat breaking it apart with a spoon and stirring until all traces of pink disappear Allow it to cook 8 to 10 minutes until the meat is crumbly and just beginning to crisp up against the pan Drain off excess grease to prevent sogginess Add taco seasoning then slowly pour in a quarter cup water Let the mixture bubble simmer over low for about 5 minutes until the liquid absorbs into the meat and you smell rich spices rising
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Lay each flour tortilla onto a preheated dry skillet for about 15 to 20 seconds per side until soft and pliable Alternatively wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave 30 seconds This step keeps them from tearing when you fill and roll
- Assemble the Burrito:
- Lay a warmed tortilla flat on your clean counter Spoon a generous layer of rice along the center keeping space on all sides Add a thick scoop of seasoned beef followed by smooth nacho cheese sauce Drizzle chipotle sauce over the beef for smokiness then dot with cold sour cream Sprinkle an even layer of cheddar and mozzarella on top Distribute so every bite gets both cheeses
- Wrap the Burrito:
- Fold the sides over the filling then tightly roll from the bottom up making sure to tuck in the ends as you go Gently press the seam so everything stays inside
- Grill the Burrito:
- Heat a clean nonstick skillet over medium Add a pat or brush of butter or a quick swirl of oil Sprinkle two tablespoons shredded cheese onto the hot pan and immediately place the wrapped burrito seam side down onto the cheese Let it cook untouched for about 3 to 4 minutes as the cheese melts and creates a golden crunchy crust Using a big spatula flip and sprinkle more cheese on the pan Repeat for the other side You want both sides crispy and the cheese nicely caramelized
I have a soft spot for chipotle sauce with its unique smoky tang It always reminds me of when I first introduced this recipe at a family gathering and everyone was fighting for the last burrito
Flavor Boosters
Add sautéed bell peppers or corn in summer Roasted sweet potato or butternut squash turns this into a fall treat If fresh tomatoes are in season dice and add before rolling for bright flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve with salsa guacamole and extra sour cream for dipping Big green salads balance out the richness For parties slice burritos into halves or thirds for sharable finger food options
Creative Twists
No beef or want something lighter Cooked chicken or seasoned black beans swap in seamlessly Vegan cheese and plant based protein crumbles work well too If you do not like chipotle swap for mild salsa or extra nacho cheese
With crispy edges and a melty center this grilled cheese burrito is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation Reheat leftovers for another round of comfort food perfection
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the burrito extra crispy?
Sprinkle shredded cheese directly on the skillet before grilling the burrito. This creates a crispy, golden cheese crust.
- → Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Yes, chicken or even vegetarian proteins like beans work well. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on a stovetop skillet for the crispiest cheese, or microwave for 60–90 seconds for convenience.
- → Are there dairy-free options?
Use plant-based shredded cheese and dairy-free sour cream to create a vegan-friendly version.
- → How can I add more spice?
Add jalapeños, extra chipotle sauce, or a dash of hot sauce for additional kick.