Combining the comforting allure of sloppy joes with the hearty wrap of a burrito, this recipe for Sloppy Joe Baked Burritos offers a unique twist on two classic favorites. Originating from the United States in the early 20th century, the sloppy joe is a beloved dish known for its savory, meaty tomato sauce, traditionally served sandwiched between buns. Here, we elevate it by encasing it in tortillas and baking it to perfection — ideal for a casual dinner or a convenient party dish. This blend not only provides a delightful texture contrast but also infuses a bit of Mexican flair, turning a simple meal into a special one.
These sloppy joe baked burritos are versatile and filling enough to stand on their own, but they sing alongside a few well-chosen sides. Serve them with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to add a refreshing note. Corn on the cob or a tangy coleslaw can also pair beautifully, offering a crunch that contrasts the burrito’s soft exterior. Don’t forget a bowl of tortilla chips and some guacamole or salsa for dipping!
Sloppy Joe Baked Burritos
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ground beef
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard
1 teaspoon brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
6 flour tortillas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (optional for topping)
Chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s browned thoroughly. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and brown sugar into the skillet with the beef. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Spoon an even amount of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and roll them up tightly.
6. Place the rolled burritos in a baking dish seam-side down. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
7. Remove the foil, and if desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top. Bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot, topped with sour cream and garnished with green onions if using.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version of this recipe, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative. Adding chopped bell peppers or corn to the filling can boost the vegetable content and provide a sweet balance to the tangy sauce. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of chili powder or some sliced jalapeños can spice things up. Also, swapping out cheddar for pepper jack cheese can add an extra layer of flavor.
