A grilled stuffed burrito refers to a main dish involving any combination of fillings wrapped inside a large tortilla and then crisped on the outside by means of grilling or searing by using a grill press, griddle or pan heating. Traditionally, a grilled stuffed burrito is likely thought of as a Mexican dish, but there are other varieties. The typical food fillings can be those of a traditional burrito, such as seasoned meat or poultry, rice, beans or cheese, but can also take the form of less traditional burrito fillings that are flavor-compatible such as egg, cheese, bacon or sausage.
The food phrase “Grilled Stuft Burrito” was coined by the Taco Bell® franchise and includes a variety of combinations. However, there is no surefire way to identify when and where the first grilled stuffed burrito was made, as there are many restaurants and home chefs who have created their own culinary varieties. The inception of the grilled stuffed burrito is irrelevant, but the variety of flavor combinations is essentially endless and open for experimentation.
Aside from the traditional filling flavors, other popular flavorings and seasonings include chipotle, Caesar, Tex-Mex, and cilantro to name a few. The flavor of a grilled stuffed burrito can also be altered by interchanging different cheeses and vegetables. For example, pepper jack cheese complements spicy peppers and onions while feta blends well with olives and roasted peppers. Beef, chicken and pork are all suitable meats and can be seasoned to taste, but meatless grilled stuffed burritos can also be very flavorful while still suitable for vegetarians.
To make a grilled stuffed burrito at home, choose large size tortillas and the desired filling combinations. Any meat used needs to be seasoned and thoroughly cooked prior to filling the shell. Vegetables can be sautéed or included uncooked, depending on the vegetable and desired flavor. Assemble ingredients in the center of the tortilla shell, wrapping one side over ingredients and then folding the top and bottom inward before completing a full roll. Burritos can be cooked on a grill press, panini maker, or in a pan. The shells should be brushed lightly with oil to promote crispiness.
For those who enjoy multiple ingredients wrapped up in a tortilla shell, but don’t like the texture of a crispy outside, a wet burrito can be made instead. Top either variety with a sauce made of salsa, melted cheese, guacamole, sour cream or Hollandaise as desired. Garnish the finished dish with chopped green onion, tomato or parsley for a gourmet finish.
