Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Season the beef with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to make a roux. This will thicken the sauce.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps, and continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Wraps
- Warm the tortillas: Heat each tortilla in a dry skillet for 20-30 seconds on each side, just to make them more pliable.
- Assemble the wraps: Lay a tortilla flat on a surface, spread a layer of the cheese sauce in the center, then add a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef on top.
- Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and any other toppings like sour cream or jalapeños, if desired.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly to form a wrap.
Step 4: Serve
- Slice the wraps in half diagonally for easy serving, and drizzle any extra cheese sauce over the top for added indulgence.
- Serve with a side of tortilla chips, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
Optional Variations
- Spicy Beef Wrap: Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the beef while cooking for a spicy kick.
- Veggie-Packed Wrap: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Chicken Substitute: Use cooked, shredded chicken in place of beef for a different protein option.
- Healthier Version: Swap the cheese sauce for Greek yogurt or avocado slices, and use whole-wheat tortillas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheese Sauce Beef Wrap combines the comfort of creamy, melted cheese with the rich, savory flavor of seasoned beef. It’s an easy-to-make, filling dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or feeding a crowd. You can also customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables or heat levels to suit your taste.
Enjoy these cheesy, meaty wraps with friends and family for a delicious, comforting meal!