Introduction to Grilled Cheese Burritos
Grilled cheese burritos are a delightful fusion of comfort food that marries the classic grilled cheese sandwich with the hearty filling of a burrito. If you’ve ever salivated at the thought of that crispy, cheesy goodness wrapped around savory ingredients, you’re not alone. These burritos are not just a meal; they’re an experience that you can easily customize to suit your taste.
Why Choose Grilled Cheese Burritos Over Fast Food?
When craving a quick bite, fast food can seem tempting. However, opting for a homemade grilled cheese burrito offers several benefits:
-
Quality Control: You can use fresh ingredients, ensuring your burrito is packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, you decide the amount of cheese and spices!
-
Customization: Whether you prefer ground turkey, chicken ham, or even a mix of vegetables, the options are nearly limitless. You can even craft it to be vegetarian or gluten-free if that suits your diet.
-
Cost-Effective: Making your own grilled cheese burritos typically costs less than a trip to your favorite fast-food joint, and you can make multiple servings at once.
By diving into this recipe, you'll not only satisfy your cravings but also share a fun cooking adventure with friends. Why not make it a mini cooking session? Prepare this scrumptious meal at home and enjoy the crispy, cheesy perfection guilt-free!
Ingredients for Grilled Cheese Burritos
Essential ingredients for the Mexican rice
To create the base for your grilled cheese burrito, you'll need the following for the Mexican rice:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1½ cups low or no-sodium chicken broth
- 4 ounces tomato sauce
- Seasonings: ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon chicken bouillon, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
These ingredients provide a flavorful, hearty backdrop that complements the crispy burrito perfectly.
Taco meat ingredients
Give your grilled cheese burrito a hearty punch with some savory taco meat. You’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- Seasoning blend: 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon dried oregano.
This mixture adds a deliciously seasoned kick that will keep your taste buds dancing.
Components of chipotle mayo
For a delightful zesty kick, delight your burrito with chipotle mayo:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 small lime)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
This creamy, spicy sauce elevates the flavor profile in every bite.
Additional ingredients for assembling the burritos
Finally, let’s gather the goodies to assemble your grilled cheese burritos:
- 8 large burrito-sized tortillas
- 2 cups cooked Mexican rice
- 1 pound cooked taco meat
- 1 cup tortilla strips
- ¾ cup warmed nacho cheese sauce
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup homemade chipotle mayo
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
With these components, you’ll craft a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion—sure to impress your friends or indulge on a cozy night in!
Step-by-step Preparation of Grilled Cheese Burritos
Creating mouth-watering grilled cheese burritos at home is not just a delightful cooking experience—it’s an invitation to explore flavors that hit just right. Here’s a detailed breakdown to guide you through the preparation of this cheesy, savory treasure.
Prepare the Mexican Rice
First things first! The backbone of your grilled cheese burrito starts with the Mexican rice. For a scrumptious result:
- Sauté the Rice: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice, stirring until it appears bright white.
- Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour in 1½ cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 4 ounces of tomato sauce, and sprinkle in ½ teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, and chicken bouillon, along with ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring it all to a simmer.
- Let It Cook: Lower the heat, cover, and let it cook for about 25 minutes. Once done, let it sit covered for an additional 10 minutes before fluffing it up.
Cook the Ground Beef for Taco Meat
Next up is the taco meat, which adds that hearty touch to your grilled cheese burritos:
- Brown the Beef: In a medium-sized skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat, crumbling it as it cooks. Make sure it turns brown and no pink remains.
- Season It: Drain any excess fat and mix in 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon dried oregano. Stir well, and then set aside.
Whip Up the Chipotle Mayo
For that smoky kick, let’s create a chipotle mayo that ties everything together:
- Blend Your Ingredients: In a small blender, combine ¾ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 small lime), 1 teaspoon honey, 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Blend until it's smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Grilled Cheese Burritos
Now comes the fun part—assembling those grilled cheese burritos:
- Layer Ingredients: Take a large burrito tortilla and start layering with cooked Mexican rice, taco meat, a handful of tortilla strips, warm nacho cheese sauce, a dollop of sour cream, and a drizzle of chipotle mayo.
- Roll It Up: Carefully roll the burrito, tucking in the ends to prevent spilling, and place it seam-side down on a plate. Repeat this for all tortillas.
Grill the Burritos to Perfection
The final step is where the magic happens—grilling those burritos to a cheesy perfection:
- Melt the Cheese: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and sprinkle a handful of shredded Mexican cheese onto the skillet. Let it melt slightly.
- Grill Your Burritos: Place the burrito seam side down onto the melted cheese. Cook for about 2 minutes before flipping it over on the new melted cheese, grilling for an additional 2 minutes until both sides are golden and crispy.
Finally, serve those delicious grilled cheese burritos warm with some extra chipotle mayo for dipping! Enjoy this fantastic blend of flavors that you crafted from scratch. Who needs the drive-thru when you can make this at home?
Variations on Grilled Cheese Burritos
Veggie-packed burritos
Looking to sneak more veggies into your diet? Try a veggie-packed grilled cheese burrito! Fill your burrito with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious crunch. Add some black beans for protein and flavor, and don’t forget to sprinkle in shredded cheese for that gooey goodness. This option is a fantastic way to keep things healthy while enjoying the comforting vibe of a classic burrito. For more creative veggie ideas, check out this healthy recipes guide.
Spicy grilled cheese burritos
If you’re craving some heat, opt for a spicy grilled cheese burrito! Incorporate jalapeños or serrano peppers into your filling for an added kick. You can enhance the spiciness with spicy nacho cheese or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. Pair it with a refreshing dip made from avocado or yogurt to cool things down a bit. This twist will surely satisfy those spicy cravings while still featuring that irresistible grilled cheese crunch. Want more spicy inspiration? Explore this hot sauce resource.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Grilled Cheese Burritos
Tips for the ultimate crispy exterior
To achieve that delightful crispy exterior for your grilled cheese burrito, use a mix of avocado oil and butter for grilling. This combination enhances flavor and creates a golden crust. Press down gently using a spatula during cooking to help the cheese meld, ensuring a toasty finish. Additionally, using a medium heat will allow the cheese to melt perfectly while giving the outside a nice crunch without burning.
Storing leftovers and reheating tips
If you have any leftover grilled cheese burritos, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it's time to enjoy them again, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. This method helps restore the crispiness, taking about 8 minutes to warm through. Check out this guide on proper burrito storage for more tips!
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Cheese Burritos
Creative Dipping Sauces
While your grilled cheese burrito is delicious on its own, dipping sauces can take it to the next level! Consider whipping up a batch of homemade guacamole or a zesty pico de gallo for fresh flavors. If you love a little heat, a sriracha or jalapeño ranch dressing adds a fiery kick. For a creamy twist, try ranch or a tangy cilantro-lime dressing to balance out the hearty filling.
Side Dishes to Pair with Your Burritos
Completing your meal with the perfect sides can elevate your dining experience. Think about serving your grilled cheese burrito with:
- A refreshing side salad topped with avocado and lime vinaigrette.
- Crispy tortilla chips with homemade salsa or queso dip.
- Cool, tangy pickled vegetables for a crunch!
These pairings not only enhance the flavors but also balance the richness of the burrito. Enjoy!
Time Breakdown for Grilled Cheese Burritos
Preparation Time
Get ready to roll! It takes about 20 minutes to prep all those mouthwatering ingredients for your grilled cheese burritos. This includes cooking the rice and making that delicious chipotle mayo—both essential for a flavor-packed bite.
Cook Time
Once everything’s ready, you’ll need approximately 45 minutes of cooking time. This includes perfectly grilling your burritos until they achieve that crispy, cheesy exterior we all crave.
Total Time
In just about 1 hour and 5 minutes, you’ll have a batch of grilled cheese burritos ready to impress your friends and family. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering! For more tips on meal prep and cooking times, check out this helpful resource.
Nutritional Facts for Grilled Cheese Burritos
Calories
Each delicious grilled cheese burrito packs approximately 628 calories. For those of you tracking your caloric intake, this savory treat balances indulgence and sustenance, making it a satisfying meal option.
Protein
Fuel your day with around 18 grams of protein per burrito. This protein boost comes mainly from the ground beef and cheese, helping you feel fuller for longer and supporting muscle maintenance.
Sodium
Be mindful of the sodium levels in this dish, which clock in at 865 mg. While it’s an integral part of the flavor profile, consider pairing with a fresh salad or vegetables to balance out the sodium content.
For more tips on how to enjoy a healthy lifestyle while indulging, check out resources from the American Heart Association.
FAQs about Grilled Cheese Burritos
Can I make these burritos vegetarian?
Absolutely! Making a grilled cheese burrito vegetarian is easy and delicious. Simply replace the ground beef with black beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions. You can also add grilled mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor. Don't forget to pile on the cheese for that dreamy, melty goodness!
What can I use as a gluten-free alternative?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, alternative tortillas made from rice, corn, or other gluten-free grains work beautifully. Just ensure your fillings, like seasoning mixes and sauces, are also gluten-free. Brands like Mission and Udi’s often offer tasty alternatives that won't compromise flavor.
How can I customize the fillings?
The beauty of a grilled cheese burrito lies in its versatility! Feel free to get creative with your fillings—think avocado, corn, or even spicy jalapeños for a kick. Swap out the toppings with shredded carrots or fresh cilantro to give a whole new vibe. The options are endless! Check out this article for more customization ideas.
Conclusion on Grilled Cheese Burritos
In summary, the grilled cheese burrito is a fusion dish that's sure to please your taste buds and elevate your meal game at home. With its cheesy exterior and customizable fillings, it turns every bite into a delightful experience. Enjoy making these and watch your friends and family get hooked!
Grilled Cheese Burrito
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
Mexican Rice
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1.5 cups chicken broth low or no sodium
- 4 ounces tomato sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon chicken bouillon
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Taco Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.75 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
Chipotle Mayo
- 0.75 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice approx 1 small lime
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Grilled Cheese Burritos
- 8 large tortillas burrito size
- 2 cups Mexican Rice cooked
- 1 pound taco meat
- 1 cup tortilla strips
- 0.75 cup nacho cheese sauce warmed
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 0.5 cup chipotle mayo our favorite recipe linked here!
- 1 cup Mexican cheese blend shredded
Instructions
Mexican Rice
- Prepare the rice you are using, if using a store-bought follow the directions on the package. If making from scratch, heat the avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat, add in the rice and cook until rice has a bright white appearance.
- Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and add in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and the seasonings. Stir and bring this to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid and let cook for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove from the heat, set aside and keep the lid on an additional 10 minutes before opening.
- Once you open the lid, stir the rice to fluff it up and stir in the tomato sauce again.
Ground Beef Taco Meat
- Cook the ground beef in a medium size skillet over medium heat, crumbling as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and no longer pink, drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning to the beef and stir to combine.
Chipotle Mayo
- To a small blender or food processor add the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, honey, chipotle chiles, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Blend until sauce is smooth.
Grilled Cheese Burritos
- Assemble the burritos by layering rice, taco meat, tortilla strips, nacho cheese sauce, sour cream, and chipotle mayo. Roll the burrito and place aside seam-side down. Continue until all burritos have been assembled.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Sprinkle a handful of the shredded Mexican cheese on the skillet and allow it to melt.
- Place the burrito seam side down, onto the melted cheese and allow this to cook for about 2 minutes. Then sprinkle another handful of cheese next to the burrito on the skillet. Using a spatula flip the burrito over, so the other side is now on the new melted cheese. Continue to allow this to cook an additional 2 minutes. The cheese should be toasted and golden on both sides.
- Remove the burrito from the skillet, set aside and continue until all burritos have been grilled.
- Serve the burritos warm with additional chipotle mayo for dipping.
Leave a Reply