If you have a love for hearty, flavorful meals wrapped in a warm tortilla, then you are in for a real treat with this Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe. It brings together the nostalgic, savory goodness of classic Sloppy Joes and transforms it into a fun handheld delight that’s grilled to crispy perfection. Bursting with a rich tomato-beef mixture, vibrant veggies, and melted cheese all rolled into a golden, crunchy shell, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos deliver comfort and excitement in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, everyday ingredients come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each component has its role: from the tender, seasoned beef to the melty cheese and soft tortillas, every bite sings with balance and satisfaction.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that makes the burritos rich and satisfying.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften the veggies, adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1/2 cup yellow onion finely diced: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper finely diced: Brings a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the mix.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Delivers a punch of aromatic warmth.
- 3/4 cup tomato sauce: Creates the saucy, luscious base for the Sloppy Joe filling.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds tanginess and a hint of sweetness for balance.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for deep richness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami boost for complexity.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances acidity with subtle caramel notes.
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard: Gives a mild sharpness that brightens the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Provides just enough warmth and earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky depth that complements the grilled finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and aromatic spice.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese: Melts into gooey, savory pockets inside the burritos.
- 4 large flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping everything up tightly.
- Butter or oil for grilling: Helps achieve that gorgeous, crispy golden crust.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks for even texture. Once browned, drain any excess fat if needed to keep things from getting greasy. Then, toss in the diced onions and green peppers, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their sweet, fresh flavors. A quick stir-in of minced garlic for 30 seconds finishes this step perfectly with a fragrant pop.
Step 2: Create the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Next, pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, and tomato paste — these make the sauce rich and tangy. Add Worcestershire sauce for a nice depth of flavor and brown sugar for subtle sweetness. Stir in the yellow mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well, then let it simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes. This simmering allows the sauce to thicken, concentrating those classic Sloppy Joe flavors that we all love.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
Remove the skillet from heat. Lay out your large flour tortillas and spoon the savory Sloppy Joe mixture down the center of each. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese on top — this cheese is key for adding creamy, melty wonders inside every bite. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll tightly to keep all that goodness enclosed and ready for grilling.
Step 4: Grill the Burritos to Crispy Perfection
Heat a clean skillet or grill pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Place each burrito seam-side down first; this helps seal them shut while grilling. Grill for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy. If you want an extra crunch, gently press the burritos with a spatula while they grill. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning — you want that perfect crisp without char.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe experience, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or sliced green onions right on top. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado are fantastic too, providing cool creaminess that contrasts the warm, spicy interior. For some extra zing, offer pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce on the side.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with classic sides like crispy fries or crunchy coleslaw, making the meal balanced and inviting. A simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the burritos. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve with chips and salsa or a small helping of Mexican rice to round it out.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make a big difference! Try slicing your grilled burritos diagonally and stack the halves on a platter for easy sharing. Wrap each burrito in parchment paper or foil for a rustic, picnic-ready look. For a fun twist, serve alongside small bowls of different dipping sauces like guacamole, smoky chipotle mayo, or a fresh salsa verde to let everyone customize their bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos can be tightly wrapped in foil or placed in an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping that tortilla crisp can be a challenge, so make sure to reheat properly for the best texture.
Freezing
These burritos freeze beautifully. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months. When you want a ready meal, just grab one and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible for a soggy tortilla. Instead, rewarm in a skillet over medium-low heat to bring back that signature grilled crunch and keep the cheese gooey. Cover the pan loosely to ensure even heating. Alternatively, heat in a 350°F oven wrapped in foil for about 15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives, though they might need a touch more seasoning to match the robust flavor beef delivers. Just adjust spices to taste.
What cheese works best for Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe?
Cheddar and Colby Jack are classic choices because they melt well and add a creamy, tangy layer. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little extra kick.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is mildly spiced with chili powder and smoked paprika, making it approachable for most palates. You can easily increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños if you love spice!
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes! The Sloppy Joe filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just reheat and assemble the burritos when you’re ready to grill, which saves time on busy days.
Are these burritos freezer friendly?
Definitely. Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos freeze well and make for a convenient, delicious meal anytime you want to enjoy this comforting dish without the fuss of cooking from scratch.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos Recipe feels like passing along a cherished secret—comfort food at its finest, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and watch how it soon becomes a favorite in your home, turning simple ingredients into unforgettable bites. You’ll love the crispy texture, the juicy, saucy filling, and the ease of pulling it all together with minimal fuss. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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
These Sloppy Joe Grilled Burritos combine the comforting flavors of classic sloppy joe filling with the satisfying crunch of grilled tortillas. Packed with seasoned ground beef, bell peppers, and melted cheese, these burritos make a hearty and delicious American-inspired meal perfect for dinner or a filling lunch.
Ingredients
Filling
- 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
Assembly
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Butter or oil for grilling
Instructions
- Brown the beef: 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 to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the finely diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables have softened and released their flavors.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare sloppy joe sauce: Add tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer filling: Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened into a saucy consistency. Remove from heat.
- Assemble burritos: Spoon an even amount of the sloppy joe mixture down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese. Fold in the sides and roll tightly into burritos, sealing the filling inside.
- Grill burritos: Heat a clean skillet or grill pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Place the burritos seam-side down in the pan and grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy. For extra crunch, press gently with a spatula while grilling.
- Serve: Serve the grilled sloppy joe burritos hot, ideally with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad as accompaniments.
Notes
- Press the burritos gently with a spatula during grilling to achieve a crispier, more compact wrap.
- Pair these burritos with side dishes like fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute.
- Ensure the tortillas are large enough to hold the filling without breaking for best results.
