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This Step Ultimate Nacho Cheese Beef Wrap combines hearty, cheesy, and spicy goodness all wrapped up in a tortilla. Perfect for satisfying snack cravings or creating a meal packed with vibrant flavors, this recipe has become one of my family’s go-to dishes, particularly for game nights or casual dinners.
I remember making this for a family movie night, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about the mix of creamy cheese sauce and crunchy tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: The protein base that adds a hearty flavor. Choose fresh, lean ground beef for the best results.
- Small onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the beef filling. Chop finely for even cooking.
- Garlic cloves: Enhances the overall flavor. Fresh minced garlic is best for this recipe.
- Olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and prevents sticking. Use good quality olive oil for a rich taste.
- Taco seasoning: Brings bold spices to the filling. Use store-bought or prefer homemade for better control over the flavor.
- Water: Helps create a saucy consistency with the seasoning mix.
- Unsalted butter: Acts as the base for a smooth and creamy sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to the right texture.
- Whole milk: Adds richness for a velvety consistency. Room temperature milk avoids clumping.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides the cheesy goodness. Freshly shredded melts better than pre-packaged.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For a hint of heat.
- Salt and pepper: Adjusts seasoning to taste.
- Flour tortillas: Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the fillings. Warm them slightly to make folding easier.
- Crushed tortilla chips: Adds a crunchy texture. Choose your favorite brand or flavor.
- Shredded lettuce: For added freshness. Use crisp lettuce like iceberg or romaine.
- Diced tomatoes: Adds color and juiciness. Pick ripe yet firm tomatoes.
- Sliced jalapeños (optional): Provides extra heat for spice lovers.
- Sour cream or guacamole: Completes the wrap with creaminess. Choose your preferred topping.
How To Make Step Ultimate Nacho Cheese Beef Wrap
- Cook the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat add olive oil and chopped onion. Sauté for approximately 2 to 3 minutes or until translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Introduce ground beef breaking it apart with a spatula while cooking. Continue cooking for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Mix in taco seasoning and water. Allow to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes or until thickened.
- Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- In a small saucepan melt the butter over medium heat until fully liquefied. Gradually whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for one minute. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add shredded cheddar cheese cayenne pepper salt and pepper. Stir well until the sauce achieves a smooth creamy texture.
- Assemble the Wrap:
- Warm tortillas gently to make pliable. Spread a hearty spoonful of cheese sauce over the center of each tortilla. Add a portion of seasoned beef creating a flavorful layer. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips generously followed by lettuce and tomatoes. Optionally drizzle additional cheese sauce or add a dollop of sour cream. Carefully fold the sides inward then roll up tightly ensuring nothing spills.
- Toast (Optional):
- For a crispy golden finish heat the wrap in a dry skillet for 1 to 2 minutes per side.
My favorite part is when the melted cheese meets the crunchy tortilla chips in every bite. This dish reminds me of fun-filled weekend afternoons with my kids where we savor these wraps topped with extra guacamole.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers wrap each roll tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat place in a skillet to bring back the crispy texture or microwave for a quick warm-up.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a lighter twist swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives. Any shredded cheese can be used but cheddar melts beautifully for the perfect nacho flavor. Flour tortillas can be replaced with whole grain or gluten-free varieties depending on your dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this wrap with classic side dishes like Mexican rice or a simple side salad. Add salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra heat.
Whether you are making this wrap for a family dinner or as a quick grab-and-go lunch it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and satisfaction. The crispy exterior paired with the flavor-packed fillings is a surefire way to elevate your meal game. Once you’ve tried this recipe you will see why it is a consistent crowd-pleaser.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the beef filling juicy?
Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil to build flavor. Then cook the ground beef until browned and add taco seasoning with water. Let it simmer to lock in moisture and flavor.
- → Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- → What can I use as a substitute for cheddar cheese?
You can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses to create a smooth and flavorful cheese sauce.
- → How can I prevent the tortilla wrap from breaking?
Warm the tortilla slightly before assembling to make it more pliable. Avoid overfilling the wrap, and fold the sides inward tightly to secure the fillings.
- → What are some good topping ideas for this wrap?
Aside from sour cream and guacamole, you can add sliced olives, diced avocado, hot sauce, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor and variety.