Cheeseburger Burritos Animal Style

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Cheeseburger burritos combine juicy ground beef, classic American cheese, and grilled onions, smothered with a tangy homemade animal style sauce. The filling is layered with crisp, golden crinkle cut fries and enveloped in a large tortilla, then grilled until gloriously golden all over. Each bite delivers the best of both worlds—melty cheese, savory beef with notes of mustard, and a creamy tang from the special sauce. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, these burritos are sure to please those craving hearty comfort food packed with flavor.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Mon, 16 Jun 2025 13:55:09 GMT
Two cheese burger burritos on a table. Save
Two cheese burger burritos on a table. | lilicooks.com

Cheeseburger burritos combine two classics into one crave-worthy dinner and have quickly become one of my go-to favorites for family game nights when we want something fun hearty and packed with flavor. The homemade animal style sauce is a big crowd pleaser and stuffing the burritos with fries and gooey cheese gives every bite a juicy punch

The first time I threw together cheeseburger burritos was after a road trip the kids still talk about them and now they are on our regular dinner rotation

Ingredients

  • Chopped onion: Adds sweet flavor and juiciness Use a fresh firm onion for best results
  • Butter: Brings richness and helps to caramelize the onions Look for unsalted so you can control the salt
  • Yellow mustard: Classic burger zing Any brand works but the flavor really stands out
  • Ground beef: Choose 80 20 for juiciness Press into patties for even crust
  • McCormick Hamburger Seasoning: This blend brings out beefy flavor Taste a bit before using for saltiness
  • Burrito size tortillas: Go for large smooth tortillas so you can pack in all the fillings Fresher is easier to roll
  • Frozen crinkle cut fries: Crispy contrast and classic drive thru taste Thicker cuts hold up inside the burrito
  • American cheese: Slices melt beautifully and give that famous burger taste Stack two for extra gooeyness
  • Mayonnaise: The creamy base for that tangy sauce Use full fat for the best result
  • Ketchup: Adds both tang and sweetness Squeeze bottle makes prep easy
  • Sweet relish: Balances savory with a bit of crunch Refrigerated deli relish adds freshness
  • Vinegar: Just a splash for brightness Opt for white or apple cider types
  • Garlic powder and smoked paprika: Boosts the sauce with a little warmth Choose good quality for more depth

Step by Step Instructions

Make the Sauce:
Whisk together ketchup mayonnaise mustard relish vinegar garlic powder and smoked paprika until smooth Stick this in the fridge so the flavors mingle
Cook the Fries:
Spread fries in a single layer then crisp in your air fryer or oven until deep golden and crunchy Do not skip the full cook time so they stay crispy inside the burrito
Shape and Cook the Patties:
Gently press the ground beef into even sized patties or use store bought Sprinkle with McCormick Hamburger Seasoning
Grill the Onions:
Melt butter on a hot griddle Toss in the onions and cook stirring often until deeply golden and soft This takes patience but makes those burger joint style onions
Cook the Burger Patties:
Lay patties on the griddle Smash them down for a crunchy crust Brush with mustard as they sizzle Season more if desired Cook one side to brown then flip finish cooking and chop into pieces
Assemble the Burritos:
Open a tortilla Spread a spoonful of sauce in the center Scatter on a handful of hot fries Lay down one slice of cheese Top with burger pieces and grilled onions Add another cheese slice and a little more sauce
Grill and Crisp the Burritos:
Roll each tortilla up tightly and place seam side down onto a clean griddle Cook over medium heat turning once until both sides are golden and crisp This locks in flavor and makes it all melty
A cheese burger burrito. Save
A cheese burger burrito. | lilicooks.com

I absolutely love the way the sweet tangy sauce ties everything together It is just like that secret sauce from my favorite burger place and it is worth making double so you can dip your extra fries My kids get a kick out of helping assemble especially when piling in the fries

Storage Tips

Wrap leftover burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days For longer storage freeze wrapped burritos individually Pop them in a hot pan or the oven straight from the fridge or freezer for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a dairy free option swap the butter for olive oil and choose vegan cheese You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter twist Any crinkle fry will work but shoestrings can get soggy quicker

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burritos with extra sauce for dipping and maybe a side of crunchy dill pickles A simple green salad helps balance the richness You can slice burritos in half for party style sharing or tuck them into lunchboxes

Two cheese burger burritos on a table. Save
Two cheese burger burritos on a table. | lilicooks.com

Cultural Context

Cheeseburger burritos are a delicious mashup born from the creative world of American diner food Often called animal style as a nod to west coast burger chains they turn burger night into something just unexpected enough to impress guests and satisfy cravings

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different cheese varieties?

Yes, substitute American cheese with cheddar, pepper jack, or your favorite melting cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ What’s the best way to cook the fries?

Use an air fryer for extra crispiness, or follow the package instructions to bake in the oven until golden brown.

→ Is it possible to make the burritos ahead?

Prepare the fillings in advance and assemble just before grilling for optimal freshness and texture.

→ How can I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to keep the tortilla crispy and the cheese melty.

→ Can I swap ground beef for another protein?

Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based substitute can work well in place of beef, adjusted to your preference.

→ What adds the classic animal style flavor?

The homemade sauce combines mayo, ketchup, mustard, sweet relish, and spices for a signature tangy-sweet taste.

Cheeseburger Burritos Animal Style

Juicy ground beef, crispy fries, zesty sauce, and cheese wrapped in a golden tortilla for a hearty meal.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
25 min
Overall Time
40 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 4 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 onion, chopped
02 2 tablespoons butter
03 Yellow mustard
04 1 pound ground beef, formed into 4 patties
05 McCormick Hamburger Seasoning
06 4 large burrito-size tortillas
07 28-ounce bag crinkle-cut fries
08 8 slices American cheese

→ Sauce Ingredients

09 1/2 cup mayonnaise
10 1/4 cup ketchup
11 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
12 2 tablespoons sweet relish
13 1 tablespoon vinegar
14 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
15 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Steps

Step 01

Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, sweet relish, vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well and store in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the burritos.

Step 02

Cook the crinkle-cut fries in an air fryer or oven according to the package instructions until crispy.

Step 03

Form ground beef into four patties unless using pre-formed patties.

Step 04

Heat a griddle over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and butter, stirring well until softened and caramelized.

Step 05

Place the patties on the griddle and use a burger smasher to flatten them. Spread yellow mustard on the patties and season with hamburger seasoning. Allow a crust to form, then flip the patties and cook until done. Chop the patties into smaller pieces.

Step 06

Lay a burrito-size tortilla flat. Spread a layer of the homemade sauce, then add a handful of fries, one slice of American cheese, the cooked burger pieces, grilled onions, a second slice of cheese, and more sauce. Carefully roll the tortilla into a burrito.

Step 07

Place the rolled burrito seam-side down on the griddle over medium heat. Cook until both sides are golden brown. Serve and enjoy!

Tips

  1. For added crispiness, preheat the griddle before rolling up the burritos.

Required Tools

  • Griddle
  • Burger smasher
  • Air fryer or oven

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (butter and cheese)
  • Contains eggs (mayonnaise)
  • Contains gluten (tortilla and fries)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 685
  • Fats: 40 g
  • Carbohydrates: 58 g
  • Proteins: 28 g