Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup water
4 large (10-12 inch) flour tortillas
4 small (8 inch) flour tortillas
4 tostada shells
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 medium tomato, diced
1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
For Nacho Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Pinch of salt
Dash of hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ground Beef. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add 1/2 cup water, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the beef is well seasoned. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of hot sauce, if desired. Keep warm.
Step 3: Prepare Your Toppings. Shred 1 cup of lettuce, dice 1 medium tomato, and slice 1/4 cup of pickled jalapeños (optional). Have 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option) ready.
Step 4: Assemble the Crunch Wraps. Lay one large (10-12 inch) flour tortilla flat. Spread a layer of the prepared nacho cheese sauce in the center. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the seasoned ground beef onto the cheese.
Step 5: Add the Crunch. Place a tostada shell directly on top of the seasoned beef. Spread a thin layer of sour cream on the tostada shell. Layer with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and pickled jalapeños (if using).
Step 6: The Inner Tortilla & Folding. Place a smaller (8 inch) flour tortilla directly on top of the toppings. This acts as a 'lid' and helps hold everything in. Now, carefully begin folding the edges of the large flour tortilla over the smaller tortilla, working your way around and overlapping the folds to create a sealed package. It's okay if it's not perfectly neat; practice makes perfect!
Step 7: Cook to Golden Perfection. Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the folded crunch wrap seam-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully and cook on the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Notes
For best results, warm your large flour tortillas slightly before folding, as this makes them more pliable and less prone to tearing. Don't overfill the wraps! It's better to have a slightly smaller wrap that seals well than an overstuffed one that bursts open during cooking. Serve immediately for the ultimate crispy experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crunch wrap
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg