The Ultimate Chopped Cheese Loaded Burritos

Ingredients for Chopped Cheese Loaded Burritos

To make these burritos, you’ll need the following:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 slices American cheese (or cheddar, for a sharper flavor)

For the Burrito Assembly:

• 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced pickles
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup hot sauce or sriracha (optional, for heat)
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional)

Optional Sides:

• French fries
• Chips and salsa
• Guacamole

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chopped Cheese Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season the beef with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Lower the heat and place the slices of American cheese over the cooked beef. Let the cheese melt for about 1 minute, then chop and mix the cheese into the beef mixture using the spatula. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Tortillas

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them pliable for wrapping.

3. Assemble the Burritos

1. Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread a tablespoon of sour cream across the center of the tortilla.
3. Add a generous scoop of the chopped cheese filling.
4. Layer with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced pickles, shredded cheese, and any additional toppings like avocado slices.
5. Drizzle with ketchup, hot sauce, or your preferred condiment.
6. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to create a burrito.

4. Toast the Burritos (Optional)

For extra flavor and texture, toast the burritos in a skillet. Heat a small amount of oil or butter over medium heat, then cook each burrito seam-side down until golden brown and crispy, about 2 minutes per side.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the burritos in half and serve with your choice of sides, such as French fries, chips and salsa, or guacamole. These burritos are best enjoyed warm, but they also reheat well for leftovers.

Tips for Success

1. Customize the Filling: Add sautéed bell peppers, jalapeños, or mushrooms to the chopped cheese mixture for extra flavor and texture.
2. Cheese Choices: While American cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other melty cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
3. Control the Heat: Adjust the spice level by incorporating hot sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños into the filling.
4. Meal Prep: Prepare the chopped cheese filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and toast the burritos just before serving.
5. Tortilla Size: Use large tortillas to ensure you can fit all the delicious ingredients without overfilling.

Variations and Add-Ins

• Breakfast Burrito: Add scrambled eggs and hash browns to the filling for a morning twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the tortilla for a large lettuce wrap or a low-carb wrap.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based ground meat and dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, and a dollop of guacamole for a Tex-Mex-inspired take.

Conclusion

Chopped Cheese Loaded Burritos are the perfect mashup of New York street food and the versatility of burritos. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner, a party hit, or an indulgent weekend treat, this recipe is sure to deliver. With its bold flavors, endless customization options, and easy-to-follow steps, it’s time to bring this comfort food favorite to your kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy, meaty, and savory bite!