Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe

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Introduction

Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos combine the classic flavors of a Sloppy Joe sandwich with the convenience of a burrito, all wrapped up in a crispy, grilled tortilla. This recipe is perfect for a fun, easy dinner that kids and adults alike will love. The warm, cheesy filling paired with the crunchy grilled tortilla makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Overview of the Recipe

These Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos are a creative twist on the traditional Sloppy Joe. Instead of serving the filling on a bun, the mixture is wrapped in a tortilla, topped with cheddar cheese, and then grilled to perfection. The result is a burrito that is bursting with flavor, with a satisfying crunch from the grilled tortilla.

History and Origin

The Sloppy Joe is an American classic, believed to have originated in the 1930s. It typically consists of ground beef cooked in a tangy, sweet tomato sauce and is usually served on a hamburger bun. The grilled burrito, on the other hand, is a popular variation of the traditional burrito, often enjoyed for its crispy exterior. This recipe combines these two beloved dishes, creating a new take on both.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef: The main protein in the dish, providing a hearty, savory base.
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced: Contributes a mild, earthy flavor and a bit of texture.
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce: Forms the base of the Sloppy Joe sauce, providing moisture and a rich tomato flavor.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds sweetness and tanginess to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a savory, umami flavor that deepens the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard: Provides a bit of tang and sharpness, enhancing the overall flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the filling.
  • 4 large flour tortillas: Used to wrap the filling, creating the burrito.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and a sharp, cheesy flavor.
  • Butter or cooking spray for grilling: Helps to crisp and brown the tortillas during grilling.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Drain Excess Grease: If there’s excess grease in the skillet, drain it off to prevent the filling from becoming too greasy.
  3. Add Onion and Green Bell Pepper: Stir in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  4. Incorporate Sauces and Seasonings: Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Simmer the Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The sauce should thicken slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Burritos

  1. Lay Out the Tortillas: Place the large flour tortillas on a flat surface.
  2. Add the Sloppy Joe Filling: Spoon an even amount of the Sloppy Joe mixture into the center of each tortilla.
  3. Sprinkle with Cheese: Top the filling with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese.
  4. Fold and Roll: Fold in the sides of the tortilla to cover the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.

Step 3: Grill the Burritos

  1. Preheat the Skillet or Grill Pan: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Grill the Burritos: Place the burritos seam-side down on the skillet. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy.
  3. Serve: Remove the burritos from the skillet and serve hot.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

These Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos are a complete meal on their own but pair wonderfully with a side of crispy fries, a simple green salad, or coleslaw. For an extra kick, serve them with pickles or jalapeños on the side. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole would also complement the flavors nicely.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Vegetarian: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative or lentils instead of beef to make a vegetarian version.
  • Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the filling or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
  • Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy queso blend.

Health Benefits

While this recipe is indulgent, you can make it healthier by using lean ground beef or substituting with ground turkey. Using whole wheat tortillas and reducing the amount of cheese can also help lower the calorie content. Adding extra vegetables, such as corn or beans, can increase the fiber content, making the meal more filling and nutritious.

Notes

  • Storage: Leftover burritos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispy texture.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the burritos before grilling. Wrap them tightly in foil and store them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and grill as directed.
  • Make Ahead: The Sloppy Joe filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble and grill the burritos when you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute can be used instead of ground beef.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier? Certainly! You can add hot sauce, use spicy mustard, or include diced jalapeños in the filling for extra heat.

Can I bake the burritos instead of grilling them? Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and golden brown.

How do I prevent the burritos from getting soggy? To keep the burritos from getting soggy, make sure the filling isn’t too wet. If needed, simmer the filling a bit longer to thicken the sauce before assembling the burritos.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas and make sure all other ingredients, like the Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos are a delicious and creative way to enjoy the classic Sloppy Joe flavors in a new form. With their cheesy, savory filling wrapped in a crispy tortilla, these burritos are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, they’re easy to prepare and full of flavor. Customize them to suit your taste, and enjoy this hearty, satisfying dish.

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