Description
“Cheesy Beef Wraps with Bell Peppers
”
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
1 small onion, diced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper to taste
4 large tortillas
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Dipping Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp minced onion
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Beef Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in onions, bell peppers, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Assemble the Wraps:
Lay a tortilla flat and add a portion of the beef mixture in the center. Top with shredded cheese.
Fold in the sides and roll tightly to form a wrap.
Toast the Wraps:
Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Place the wraps seam-side down and toast for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
Make the Dipping Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, smoked paprika, and minced onion. Garnish with parsley.
Serve:
Slice the wraps in half and serve with fries and dipping sauce on the side.
Enjoy these flavorful and cheesy wraps, perfect for a quick meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect wraps, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil and beef to achieve a good sear. Break the beef into small crumbles as it browns. When adding the onions and peppers, stir to coat them in the beef drippings and spices for maximum flavor. Let the mixture cool slightly before assembling to prevent soggy tortillas. For rolling, place the filling just below the center, fold the sides inward firmly, then roll from the bottom up, tucking the filling tightly as you go. Press lightly on the seam in the hot skillet to seal it.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile wraps pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic combo, serve with crispy french fries or sweet potato fries. A light side salad with a vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider Mexican-style rice or a black bean salad. The creamy dipping sauce also makes an excellent spread for burgers or a dip for vegetable sticks.
How-to Summary
Quickly brown ground beef with onions, bell peppers, and spices. Spoon the mixture onto tortillas, top with cheese, and roll tightly. Toast the wraps in a hot skillet until golden and crispy on all sides. Whisk together a simple, smoky paprika mayonnaise and ketchup sauce for dipping. Slice and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these wraps ahead of time? You can prepare the filling 1-2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and toast the wraps just before serving for the best texture.
What are good substitutes for ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well. Adjust cooking times and seasoning as needed.
How do I prevent my wraps from falling apart? Avoid overfilling, ensure the seam is toasted first to seal it, and let them rest for a minute after cooking before cutting.
Can I bake these instead of pan-toasting? Yes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place wraps on a baking sheet, lightly brush with oil, and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
How can I make this recipe spicier? Add a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture, use pepper jack cheese, or incorporate a teaspoon of chipotle powder into the seasoning or the dipping sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a cold tortilla straight from the fridge, which can crack. Let them come to room temperature or warm briefly.
- Overfilling the wraps, which makes them difficult to roll and likely to burst open during cooking.
- Not draining excess grease from the cooked beef filling, leading to soggy, greasy wraps.
- Skipping the toasting step. This crucial step melts the cheese, seals the wrap, and adds essential texture.
- Adding the dipping sauce ingredients in the wrong order. Whisk the mayonnaise and ketchup first until smooth before adding the dry spices to prevent clumping.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Beef Wraps are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining savory beef, sweet peppers, and melted cheese in a crispy package. With the simple step-by-step process and customizable elements, they are an ideal solution for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering. By following the tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfectly balanced, delicious meal every time. Don’t forget the signature smoky dipping sauce—it truly completes the dish. Enjoy your homemade, flavorful creation!