This recipe takes the classic comfort of Sloppy Joes and combines it with the portability and texture of a grilled burrito. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual get-togethers, these Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos are a crowd-pleaser that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base of the filling.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped: Use green, red, or yellow for added flavor and color.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a savory kick.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Forms the saucy base.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides umami richness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A subtle tangy note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
For the Burritos:
- Large flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for rolling.
- Cooked white rice: Adds texture and makes the burritos more filling.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Mexican blend for a gooey, melty finish.
- Sour cream: For creaminess.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: A fresh, herbaceous touch.
- Salsa: Optional, for an extra layer of flavor and heat.
Instructions
Sloppy Joe Filling:
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasoning as needed and keep the Sloppy Joe filling warm until ready to use.
Assembling the Burritos:
- Prepare the Tortillas: Place a large flour tortilla on a clean, flat surface.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spoon a portion of cooked white rice onto the center of the tortilla. Add a generous scoop of the Sloppy Joe filling on top.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling. Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. For extra heat, spoon salsa over the filling.
Rolling and Grilling:
- Fold the Burrito: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to create a burrito.
- Heat the Grill Pan: Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Grill the Burritos: Place the burritos seam-side down on the hot grill pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest: Remove the burritos from the heat and let them rest for a minute before serving.
Serving:
- Slice and Plate: Slice the burritos in half diagonally for easier handling.
- Add Extra Toppings: Serve with additional salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side.
- Enjoy: Dig into the perfect blend of Sloppy Joe goodness wrapped in a crispy tortilla.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Tortillas: Opt for burrito-sized tortillas that are soft and pliable to prevent tearing.
- Customize the Filling: Add black beans, corn, or jalapeños to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the Sloppy Joe filling in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling the burritos.
- Grill with Care: Use medium heat to avoid burning the tortilla before it crisps up.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian Version:
Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or cooked lentils. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Tex-Mex Style:
Add a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the Sloppy Joe filling and include diced avocado in the burrito.
Breakfast Burritos:
Incorporate scrambled eggs and hash browns along with the Sloppy Joe filling for a hearty morning meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each assembled burrito tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Microwaving: For quick reheating, unwrap the burrito and microwave it on high for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos bring together the best of two worlds: the bold, tangy flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe and the convenience of a handheld burrito. The crispy, grilled tortilla adds a satisfying crunch, while the cheesy, savory filling makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!