The Ultimate Grilled Cheese Burrito

There’s something magical about the combination of gooey melted cheese, a crispy golden tortilla, and a hearty, flavorful filling. If you’re a fan of both grilled cheese sandwiches and burritos, then this Grilled Cheese Burrito is about to become your new favorite comfort food. It takes the best of both worlds—crispy, cheesy, and packed with deliciousness—all in one irresistible bite.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

This burrito is a perfect go-to for weeknights when you’re craving something indulgent but still easy to make. The crisp outer layer of cheese adds a unique texture, making every bite a delightful mix of crunch and melty goodness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or making a fun meal for family or friends, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy Perfection – The outer cheese crust takes this burrito to a whole new level.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with beef, rice, and a flavorful sauce, this meal satisfies every craving.
• Easy to Make – No fancy techniques required, just simple ingredients and a straightforward process.
• Customizable – Swap in your favorite proteins, add veggies, or spice it up with extra toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Burrito Filling

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup nacho cheese sauce
• 4 large flour tortillas

For the Cheese Crust

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter

Toppings & Optional Add-ins

• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced jalapeños
• Shredded lettuce
• Guacamole
• Salsa

How to Make the Ultimate Grilled Cheese Burrito

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it warm up. Then, add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease and return the skillet to heat. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef in the seasonings. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Burritos

Lay out a large flour tortilla on a clean surface. Spread a spoonful of nacho cheese sauce in the center. Add a scoop of cooked rice, followed by a generous portion of the seasoned beef. Then, drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Carefully roll the burrito by folding in the sides and rolling it up tightly. Repeat for the remaining tortillas.

Step 3: Create the Crispy Cheese Crust

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and melt butter. Sprinkle an even layer of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese onto the skillet. Allow the cheese to start melting before placing a burrito, seam-side down, directly on top of the cheese layer.

Let the burrito cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese forms a golden, crispy crust. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes to warm through.

Repeat for each burrito, adding more cheese to the skillet as needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your burritos are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and sliced jalapeños.

Helpful Tips

• For an Extra Crispy Cheese Layer – Use a non-stick skillet and make sure to let the cheese cook until golden before placing the burrito on top.
• Prevent Soggy Tortillas – Let the beef mixture cool slightly before assembling the burrito to avoid excess moisture.
• Spice It Up – Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Make It Vegetarian – Swap the beef for black beans or grilled veggies for a delicious meatless version.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-American
• Diet: Kid-Friendly

Notes

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly. For the best cheesy crust, shred your own cheese from a block.
• Let the Cheese Crisp Up – Don’t rush the process! Allow the cheese to melt and turn golden brown before placing the burrito on top for that perfect crunchy exterior.
• Customize the Filling – Feel free to add beans, grilled veggies, or even swap the beef for shredded chicken or turkey for a different take.
• Keep the Tortillas Warm and Pliable – If your tortillas are stiff, warm them up for a few seconds in the microwave or on a dry skillet to make them easier to fold.
• Make It Healthier – Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa, and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
• Double the Recipe for Meal Prep – These burritos freeze well, so make a batch ahead of time and store them for quick, delicious meals later.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the burrito in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or use an air fryer for a crispy texture.

For longer storage, wrap individual burritos in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the burritos in advance. Store them in the fridge and cook the cheese crust fresh when you’re ready to eat.

What Type of Cheese Works Best for the Crust?

A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a perfectly crispy and flavorful crust. However, you can also try pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Can I Use Corn Tortillas?

Flour tortillas work best for this recipe since they’re pliable and hold the filling well. Corn tortillas are smaller and may not be as sturdy for wrapping.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Grilled Cheese Burrito, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

• Slow Cooker Chicken Burritos

Conclusion

The Grilled Cheese Burrito is everything you could want in a comfort food—cheesy, crispy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or impressing guests with something unique, this burrito is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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