Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Get ready for a hearty, handheld favorite that’s bursting with flavor—Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups are the ultimate comfort food with a twist. Filled with seasoned ground beef and plenty of melty cheese, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust, these roll-ups make the perfect appetizer, snack, or quick dinner. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.
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Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups: An Easy and Delicious Family-Friendly Recipe
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 8 roll-ups (4-6 servings) 1x
Description
Tender flour tortillas rolled with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and savory sauce, then baked until golden for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85/15 lean/fat)
- 8 medium flour tortillas (8-inch)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles (optional)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (3-4 mins). Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season: Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, and green chiles (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble: Spread 1-2 tbsp of sour cream on each tortilla. Spoon beef mixture evenly down the center, then top with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Roll: Fold sides of tortillas inward, then roll up tightly from the bottom. Place seam-side down in baking dish.
- Top & bake: Sprinkle remaining cheese over roll-ups. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5-10 more minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with extra sour cream or salsa if desired.
Notes
- Make ahead: Assemble roll-ups and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours.
- Freezing: Freeze baked roll-ups for up to 2 months (reheat at 350°F/175°C).
- Variations: Substitute ground turkey or add black beans for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 roll-ups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups
Perfect for Families
If you’re in search of a go-to recipe for family dinners, look no further than Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups. This dish combines savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and soft tortillas into a fun and handheld meal that both kids and adults will adore. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without the fuss.
Nutritional Benefits
One of the best parts about Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups is that they can be made with wholesome ingredients that provide essential nutrients. Ground beef offers a good source of protein, while the inclusion of vegetables (if you choose to add them) can enhance the dish’s nutritional profile. Using whole-grain tortillas can also boost the fiber content, making these roll-ups not just tasty, but healthy too!
Flexibility in Preparation
Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or catering to specific dietary preferences, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your needs. Substitute ground beef for turkey or lentils for a vegetarian alternative, or modify the spices to create your favorite flavor profile. These roll-ups can be anything from mild to spicy, ensuring everyone at your dining table will find something to enjoy.
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
Ingredients:
- Ground beef: The star of the show, providing hearty protein.
- Taco seasoning or spices such as salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder: These will infuse the meat with flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: A melty addition that adds richness.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: For a creamy, smooth texture.
- Large flour tortillas: These serve as the perfect vehicle for our filling.
- Sour cream: A tasty topping to complement the roll-ups.
- Butter or oil: To achieve that golden-brown crust when cooking.
- Salsa, guacamole, or ranch: Flavorful accompaniments to elevate your meal.
Main Ingredient: Ground Beef
Ground beef is the backbone of Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups. It brings richness and protein to the dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider ground turkey for a leaner option or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as different meats can have varying flavor profiles.
Main Ingredient: Cheese Varieties
Each cheese in this recipe plays a unique role. Cheddar adds sharpness while Monterey Jack melts beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other variants like pepper jack for a hint of heat or a dairy-free cheese if you’re catering to lactose intolerances.
Main Ingredient: Tortillas
Selecting the right tortillas is vital for achieving the perfect roll-up. Look for large flour tortillas that are soft and pliable so they wrap easily around your filling. Whole-grain tortillas can be a wholesome alternative, providing added fiber and nutrients.
Ingredient Preparation
Step 1 – Preparing the Ground Beef
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and helps to brown the meat. Season it with taco seasoning, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, adjusting the amounts to your taste. Cook until fully browned, which typically takes around 8–10 minutes.
Step 2 – Cheese Mixture
Once the beef is fully cooked and seasoned, it’s time to combine it with the cheeses. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and combined. This step can save time, as you’ll only have one ingredient mixture to prepare.
Step 3 – Prepare the Tortillas
Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave for about 10–15 seconds to make them more pliable. This will make the assembly process much easier and ensure that your roll-ups hold their shape during cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 – Initial Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving a nice golden-brown finish on your roll-ups. If you prefer skillet cooking, you can skip this step.
Step 2 – Ingredient Assembly
On each tortilla, lay down a generous scoop of the beef and cheese mixture. Roll the tortilla tightly from one end to the other, tucking in the sides as you go to prevent any filling from spilling out. Repeat this with the remaining tortillas.
Step 3 – Cooking the Roll-Ups
If baking: Arrange the roll-ups seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter or oil to help them brown nicely in the oven. Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until they are golden and bubbly.
If skillet cooking: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and place the roll-ups seam side down. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Tips for an Even Tastier Version
Adding Extra Ingredients
Consider mixing in some vegetables when you’re preparing the beef. Chopped bell peppers, onions, or even corn can add extra flavor and nutrition. Opting for spicy diced tomatoes can also intensify the flavor profile.
Techniques to Enhance Flavor
Don’t be afraid to experiment with extra seasonings or marinades. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can really make your Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups come alive. Additionally, consider marinating the beef for an hour ahead of time to allow flavors to deepen.
Adjustments for Preferences
For those following BBQ, keto, or paleo diets, consider variations like swapping out the tortillas for lettuce wraps or substituting ground beef with a mixture of shredded chicken and cream cheese.
Recipe Variations and Adaptations
Vegetarian Option
Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or crumbled tempeh. Season the vegetarian mixture with the same spices to maintain delicious flavors without the meat.
Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Option
Use gluten-free tortillas or lettuce wraps to cater to gluten sensitivities. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try using thin cauliflower tortillas instead—a delightful alternative that’ll keep the dish wholesome.
Other Adaptations
Feel free to alter the flavors based on what’s in season. Adding fresh herbs, such as cilantro or a hint of basil, can give your roll-ups a refreshing twist along with seasonal veggies to enhance the dish’s vitality.
Serving Suggestions
Salad or Soup Ideas
Start your meal with a light salad featuring fresh greens, chopped tomatoes, and avocado, dressed with lime vinaigrette. Alternatively, serve it with a delicious tomato soup for a comforting combo.
Hearty Sides
Consider pairing your Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups with homemade breadsticks or roasted vegetable medleys. Sweet potato fries or garlic mashed potatoes can also make for hearty accompaniments.
Drink Recommendations
For a balanced meal, serve with iced tea or lemonade. If you’re in the mood for wine, a light red such as Pinot Noir pairs splendidly with the savory flavors of the beef.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you’re planning to save them for longer, consider placing them in the freezer. They’ll last for about 2–3 months.
Reheating Techniques
To reheat, the oven is your best bet for keeping the texture intact. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is also an option—just ensure to cover the roll-ups to retain moisture.
Portioning Tips
Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups are perfect for meal prep! Divide them into single-serving portions to grab for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Nutritional Values per Serving
Average nutritional information (for one roll-up) may include approximately 250 calories, 18g of protein, 10g of fat, and 2g of fiber, depending on specific ingredient choices.
Ingredient Benefits
Ground beef is rich in iron and B vitamins, crucial for energy metabolism. Cheese adds calcium and protein, while vegetables increase fiber and vitamins. This dish, when prepared wisely, can be as nutritious as it is delicious!
Recommended Portions
Each roll-up makes a satisfying serving size. Depending on hunger levels, 2-3 roll-ups per person is a wholesome meal, especially when paired with sides and beverages.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underseasoning the Filling
Don’t underestimate the impact of seasoning on the flavor. Make sure to taste the beef filling as you cook and adjust as necessary—nothing ruins a good roll-up like bland meat!
Overstuffing the Roll-Ups
While it’s tempting to fill them to the brim, overstuffing can lead to breakage and difficulty in cooking. A moderate amount allows for even cooking and keeps your roll-ups intact.
Forgetting to Preheat
If opting for baking, remember to preheat your oven beforehand. Cooking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking and delayed results.
Inspiring Conclusion
Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups aren’t just a meal; they’re a memory in the making. This fun, interactive dish invites everyone to the dinner table, encouraging family connection and creativity in the kitchen. As you experiment with different flavors and ingredients, you’ll create endless variations that can become family favorites. Share your results, gather around with loved ones, and let your culinary journey unfold!
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook when ready!
- What are the best substitutes for tortillas?
- Consider using lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or blue corn tortillas for a gluten-free alternative.
- Can I make Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups in an air fryer?
- Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the roll-ups for about 8-10 minutes for a crispy finish.
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or use spicy cheese for an extra kick!
- What toppings can I use?
- Sour cream, guacamole, sliced jalapeños, or fresh salsa would all make wonderful additions.
- How do I freeze Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups?
- Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each roll-up tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight freezer bag.
- Are there vegan options available?
- Yes! Substitute the beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative and use dairy-free cheese.
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- Certainly! Experiment with your favorite cheese blends to find your perfect flavor combination.
- Tip for a crunchy texture?
- Brush the roll-ups with a little oil before baking to enhance browning and crunchiness.
- What can I serve on the side?
- Fresh salad, homemade salsa, or a side of beans complement these roll-ups beautifully!
Enjoy your cooking adventure with Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups, and happy eating!