Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

If you’re craving a fun, flavor-packed meal that brings the best of two classic dishes together, look no further than Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos. This recipe takes the beloved messy, saucy goodness of Sloppy Joes and wraps it up in a warm, toasted tortilla with melty cheese and optional turkey bacon for an irresistible handheld delight. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these burritos are easy to make and bursting with bold, savory flavors that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos are a game-changer when it comes to comfort food. They combine the juicy, spiced ground beef filling of a traditional Sloppy Joe with the satisfying crunch and chew of a grilled tortilla. This fusion is not only delicious but also practical—you get all the richness of a Sloppy Joe without the hassle of dealing with a messy sandwich. Plus, grilling the burritos adds a smoky char and melts the cheese perfectly, making every bite pure bliss.

What makes this recipe stand out is the balance of simple pantry staples enhanced by aromatic spices like cumin and chili powder, along with the tangy tomato sauce base. Adding diced bell peppers and onions boosts the texture and freshness, while the optional turkey bacon introduces a smoky, crispy contrast. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, these Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos are sure to satisfy cravings with minimal effort.

If you’re a fan of easy, flavorful meals, you might also enjoy the fun twist of Sloppy Joe Sliders, which offer a similar taste experience in a bite-sized format.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (choose lean for less grease)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large tortillas (flour tortillas work best for grilling)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend are ideal)
• Turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

How To Make Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, making sure not to burn it.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned all over and no longer pink, roughly 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary to prevent the filling from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Add the Sauce and Spices

Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to a perfect sloppy joe consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable for rolling. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for about 20 seconds or heating them briefly in a dry skillet.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos

Lay each tortilla flat and spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe filling down the center. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling, and if using, add the crumbled turkey bacon for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.

Step 5: Grill the Burritos

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the burritos seam-side down and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip and grill the other side for another 2 minutes. The cheese inside will melt, and the tortilla will develop a lovely toasted texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the burritos from the pan and let them cool for a minute or two before slicing in half. Serve with your favorite sides like a crisp salad or some homemade salsa for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading the burritos with filling can make them difficult to roll and prone to bursting open while grilling.
• Skipping the step to warm tortillas before rolling may cause them to crack or tear.
• Not draining excess fat from the cooked ground beef can lead to soggy, greasy burritos.
• Cooking the burritos on too high heat may burn the tortilla before the cheese melts inside.
• Using tortillas that are too small will make it tough to properly fold and seal the filling.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian option: Swap ground beef for cooked lentils or crumbled firm tofu and add a bit more seasoning to mimic the savory flavor.
• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
• Cheese choices: Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a gooey melt.
• Additional toppings: Add sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream after grilling.
• Different meats: Ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap a burrito in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until warm. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat to regain the crispy exterior. Avoid reheating in a toaster oven or oven without covering, as the tortilla may dry out.

If you want to freeze them for longer storage, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as described above.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat for these burritos?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken work great as alternatives. Just adjust cooking time until the meat is fully cooked. You can also try plant-based ground meat substitutes if you prefer a meatless option.

What kind of cheese melts best in these burritos?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are ideal for melting inside Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos. These cheeses provide a creamy texture and complement the savory filling beautifully.

Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the burritos in advance. Store them wrapped in the refrigerator and grill just before serving to keep the tortillas crispy and fresh.

Is there a way to make these burritos less messy?

To reduce mess, make sure the Sloppy Joe filling is thick and not too watery. Simmer it long enough to thicken the sauce, and don’t overfill the tortillas. Grilling the burritos helps seal them and keeps the filling contained.

Conclusion

Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos are a deliciously satisfying meal that combines the best of two classic favorites into one easy-to-make dish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers. The bold, savory filling paired with melted cheese and a crispy grilled tortilla offers a comforting bite that everyone will enjoy. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize with your favorite add-ins, these burritos are sure to become a household favorite. Give them a try and experience just how versatile and tasty Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos can be!

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