Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe

Easy Homemade Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe for Dinner

Crafting a mouth-watering sloppy joe grilled burrito demands creativity and a pinch of culinary adventure.

Meat lovers will appreciate this mashup that combines classic comfort food with handheld convenience.

Tender ground beef simmered in zesty sauce gets wrapped snugly in warm tortillas.

Crispy grilled exterior gives these burritos an irresistible crunch that elevates the entire eating experience.

Melted cheese oozes between layers, creating pockets of savory goodness.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of messy, hearty flavors that dance across your palate.

Grab a napkin and prepare for a seriously delicious meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

  • Twist Classic Comfort Food: Transform traditional Sloppy Joes into a handheld, grilled burrito that brings excitement to mealtime with a delicious fusion of flavors.
  • Quick Family Meal Solution: Prepare a crowd-pleasing dinner that combines the beloved Sloppy Joe taste with the convenience of a portable burrito, perfect for busy households.
  • Customize with Ease: Add personal touches like extra cheese, different vegetables, or spice levels to make this recipe adaptable to individual preferences and taste buds.
  • Grill for Maximum Flavor: Achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in the rich, tangy Sloppy Joe filling, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Ingredients to Make Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

Meat Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that forms the foundation of the Sloppy Joe filling.
Produce:
  • Onion, Bell Pepper, Garlic: Fresh vegetables that add depth and aromatic flavor to the meat mixture.
  • Tomatoes: Fresh ingredient that provides a bright, juicy topping for the burritos.
  • Lettuce: Crisp green vegetable that adds a refreshing crunch to the burrito.
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Ketchup: A sweet and tangy base for the classic Sloppy Joe sauce.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Provides a complex, umami depth to the sauce.
  • Mustard: Brings a sharp, tangy note to the overall flavor profile.
  • Vinegar: Adds a subtle acidic brightness to the sauce.
  • Paprika, Black Pepper, Salt, Red Pepper Flakes: Spices that enhance and round out the seasoning.
Burrito Components:
  • Flour Tortillas: Soft, pliable wraps that hold the Sloppy Joe filling.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheese that adds richness and creamy texture.
Cooking and Serving Extras:
  • Olive Oil: Used for grilling the burritos to achieve a crispy, golden exterior.
  • Sour Cream: Optional cool and tangy topping to complement the spicy filling.

Stepwise Instructions for Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

Step 1: Brown The Beef

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat from the pan.

Step 2: Soften Vegetables

Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables become tender and slightly translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Create Flavor-Packed Sauce

Stir in these ingredients:
  • Ketchup
  • Brown sugar
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Mustard
  • Vinegar
  • Paprika
  • Black pepper
  • Salt
  • Red pepper flakes

Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and develops rich flavors.

Step 4: Prepare Burrito Filling

Spread flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon Sloppy Joe mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Top with:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes

Step 5: Wrap And Grill

Fold tortilla sides over the filling, then roll from the bottom to create a secure burrito. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place burritos seam-side down and cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Cut burritos in half if desired. Serve with a dollop of sour cream. Savor the delicious Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos while they’re hot!

Helpful Tips for Perfect Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

  • Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent soggy burritos and enhance the crispy texture when grilling.
  • Adjust seasoning by reducing brown sugar for a less sweet filling or adding extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
  • Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier alternative or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
  • Prep ingredients ahead of time to make assembly faster and more convenient during busy weeknights.
  • Cool filling slightly before rolling to prevent tortillas from becoming soggy and maintain structural integrity.

Variations to Elevate Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

  • Spicy Southwest Kick: Add jalapeños, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and mix in chipotle sauce for a fiery Mexican-inspired version.
  • Mediterranean Fusion: Replace ground beef with lamb, add feta cheese, diced cucumber, and tzatziki sauce for a Greek-style burrito.
  • Vegetarian Comfort: Substitute ground beef with black beans, quinoa, and roasted vegetables, keeping the same sloppy joe sauce for a plant-based alternative.
  • BBQ Ranch Remix: Blend BBQ sauce into the existing sloppy joe mixture, top with ranch dressing and crispy onion strings for a tangy southern-style burrito.

Pairing Suggestions for Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

  • Crunch Companion Salad: Toss together a zesty coleslaw with tangy apple cider vinegar and crisp cabbage to balance the rich, meaty burrito flavors and add refreshing texture.
  • Cool and Creamy Sidekick: Blend a quick ranch dressing with fresh herbs like chives and dill to provide a cool, smooth counterpoint to the spicy and warm grilled burritos.
  • Frosty Beer Complement: Select a crisp American lager or light amber ale that cuts through the hearty meat and provides a clean, refreshing finish to each bite.

Storage Recommendations for Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

  • Store leftover burritos in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
  • Place cooled burritos in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to track storage time.
  • Unwrap the burrito and place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even warming. Add a damp paper towel to prevent dryness and maintain moisture.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap burrito in aluminum foil to retain moisture.

FAQs Regarding Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

  • Are Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos spicy?

The spice level depends on personal preference. The recipe includes red pepper flakes, which you can adjust or omit to control heat. If you want more kick, add extra red pepper flakes or include some hot sauce.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Simply follow the same cooking instructions and seasoning process. The flavor will remain similar, and it’s a healthier option.

  • How do I prevent the burrito from falling apart while grilling?

Make sure to fold the tortilla tightly and seal the edges. Place the burrito seam-side down in the skillet first, which helps keep it closed. Use medium heat and avoid moving the burrito too much while cooking.

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Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe

Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe


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4.9 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 30-33 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sloppy joe grilled burritos combine classic American comfort food with Mexican-inspired wrapping techniques. Crispy tortillas packed with savory meat and melted cheese create a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef

Vegetables:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Craft the savory beef base by browning ground meat in a skillet over medium heat, methodically crumbling the protein while eliminating excess grease. Incorporate diced aromatics like onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables soften and become translucent.
  2. Develop a robust sauce by integrating ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, vinegar, and complementary spices. Allow the mixture to simmer approximately 10-15 minutes, reducing and concentrating flavors until the consistency transforms into a thick, glossy coating.
  3. Position large flour tortillas on a clean work surface, strategically centering a generous portion of the seasoned meat mixture. Enhance the filling with sharp cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce shreds, and fresh tomato chunks.
  4. Expertly encase the filling by folding tortilla sides inward, then rolling from the bottom to create a compact burrito package. Apply olive oil to a heated skillet, positioning burritos seam-side down and grilling approximately 2-3 minutes per side until achieving a golden, crisp exterior.
  5. Present the grilled burritos whole or sliced diagonally, accompanied by a dollop of cool sour cream for added richness and contrast. Serve immediately while maintaining optimal temperature and textural integrity.

Notes

  • Customize the spice level by adjusting red pepper flakes, making it mild or fiery hot for different taste preferences.
  • Choose lean ground beef or swap with ground turkey for a healthier protein option that reduces overall fat content.
  • Prepare extra filling and store in refrigerator for quick meal prep during busy weekdays, maintaining flavor intensity for 3-4 days.
  • Add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach to boost nutritional value without compromising the classic Sloppy Joe taste profile.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-23 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 570 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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