If you’re craving a meal that perfectly blends the hearty, tangy flavors of sloppy joe filling with the crispy, handheld goodness of a burrito, then you have to try this Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe. It takes the classic comfort of a sloppy joe and transforms it into a grilled, cheesy wrap that’s bursting with vibrant colors, delicious textures, and a warmth that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing friends, these burritos are sure to become a fast favorite with their perfect balance of savory beef, melty cheese, and a smoky, slightly sweet sauce all wrapped up in a golden toasted tortilla.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you — each component is simple, everyday pantry or fridge staples that come together to create a beautifully balanced dish. Every ingredient plays its role, from the juicy ground beef delivering that meaty base to the bright bell peppers adding a fresh crunch, and the blend of spices that bring warmth and depth to every bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: The rich and hearty protein foundation that makes sloppy joes so satisfying.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften the veggies with a subtle fruitiness.
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and a mild bite that melds beautifully when cooked down.
- ½ cup green bell pepper, finely diced: Brings a fresh, crisp texture and a pop of color to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory lift that rounds out the flavors.
- ¾ cup tomato sauce: The saucy base that ties everything together with a rich, tangy note.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a hint of sweetness and classic sloppy joe essence.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor with a thick, concentrated punch.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Injects umami and a subtle tang that makes the sauce complex.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances acidity with a gentle caramel sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard: Adds zest and brightens the overall sauce profile.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: Provides a mild warmth and depth without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky note that complements the grilled exterior perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the filling.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese: Melts beautifully inside the burrito for ooey-gooey goodness.
- 4 large flour tortillas: The perfect soft yet sturdy vessel to hold all the delicious fillings.
- Butter or oil for grilling: Ensures a golden crispy crust on the outside of the burritos.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it sizzles to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess fat if needed for a leaner texture. Toss in finely diced yellow onion and green bell pepper, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just about 30 seconds; this brief time lets the garlic release its aroma without turning bitter.
Step 2: Build the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Add tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is uniform. Let this simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to concentrate and the sauce to thicken into that perfect sloppy joe consistency. Once thick and saucy, remove the skillet from the heat to prepare for assembling the burritos.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out your flour tortillas flat and spoon the warm sloppy joe mixture down the center of each one. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese over the filling — don’t be shy here as the cheese adds that irresistible melty gooeyness. Fold in the sides, then roll each tortilla tightly to keep all the filling secure inside. This step sets the stage for grilling your burritos to crisp, golden perfection.
Step 4: Grill the Burritos
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking and to add extra flavor. Place burritos seam-side down on the pan and grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula while grilling to help crisp the tortillas evenly and lock the filling inside. Rotate carefully until the burritos are beautifully golden brown and the cheese inside has melted completely. Serve immediately while warm, to enjoy the irresistible mix of crispiness and melty filling.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe, consider adorning the plate with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or slices of ripe avocado. These fresh elements add contrasting creaminess and brightness that balance out the rich savory filling. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten flavors and add a zesty punch that complements every bite.
Side Dishes
These burritos pair wonderfully with classic accompaniments such as crispy French fries or a crunchy coleslaw to add variety in texture. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette keeps the meal fresh and balanced. Any of these sides infuse the meal with additional flavors and textures that make the overall experience even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or make this meal feel extra special, slice the burritos diagonally and stack the halves in a basket lined with parchment paper. Serve with small bowls of extra sauce for dipping. You could also turn these into a party platter by cutting into bite-sized pinwheels, perfect for sharing and snacking at casual gatherings or game nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftover Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a convenient option for quick reheats during busy weekdays.
Freezing
These burritos freeze beautifully, too! Wrap each one individually in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 2 months. When you want a tasty grab-and-go meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the burritos and place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Alternatively, warm them gently in a skillet over medium low heat, flipping to crisp both sides and melt the cheese once more. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortilla soggy.
FAQs
Can I make Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils to keep the hearty texture. Use vegetable broth or add extra spices to boost the flavor, and the rest of the recipe stays the same for a delicious meat-free version.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar and Colby Jack are excellent because they melt smoothly and add creamy texture. You can also try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for subtle variations. Choose cheeses you love melting for the best gooey results.
Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
Yes, whole wheat tortillas work well and add a slightly nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just make sure they’re large enough to hold all the filling comfortably so you can roll the burritos without tearing.
How spicy is the Sloppy Joe sauce?
The sauce has a mild level of heat, thanks to chili powder and smoked paprika, but it’s mostly savory and slightly sweet. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra kick.
What should I serve with these burritos for a party?
For a party, consider serving a variety of dipping sauces such as guacamole, salsa, or a creamy chipotle sauce alongside chips and a fresh salad. You can also add sides like corn on the cob or baked beans to round out the spread and keep guests happy.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe enough if you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and comforting meal that delivers on ease and taste. It’s a twist on a classic that invites creativity and always gets rave reviews at the table. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delicious wraps that really hit the spot every single time.
Print
Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free Option
Description
Delicious Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos combine the classic savory sloppy joe filling with the convenience and crispiness of a grilled burrito. Ground beef is cooked with a flavorful blend of tomato sauce, spices, and vegetables, wrapped in a warm flour tortilla with melted cheddar or Colby Jack cheese, then grilled to golden perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or casual get-together.
Ingredients
Sloppy Joe Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
To Assemble
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Butter or oil for grilling
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed. Add the onion and green bell pepper and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic and Sauces: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir the mixture well and allow it to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until thick and saucy. Remove from heat once done.
- Assemble the Burritos: Spoon the sloppy joe mixture down the center of each flour tortilla. Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese. Fold in the sides and roll tightly into burritos.
- Grill the Burritos: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Place burritos seam-side down in the pan. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve the burritos hot, optionally paired with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Notes
- For extra crunch, press the burritos gently with a spatula while grilling.
- These burritos pair well with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
- To make a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
