Guy Fieri Shares His Recipe for Bacon Cheeseburger Burrito

Guy Fieri Shares His Recipe for Bacon Cheeseburger Burrito is a medium American Fusion recipe that serves 4. 620 calories per serving. Recipe by TODAY Food on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 45 min

Cost: $17.82 total, $4.46 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20) (trimmed, room temperature)
  • 2 tbsp Bacon Fat (rendered from bacon, or use butter as substitute)
  • 1 tsp Granulated Garlic (or 1 clove fresh minced garlic)
  • 1 tsp Granulated Onion (or 1 tbsp fresh minced onion)
  • 1 tsp Salt (kosher or table salt)
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 4 pieces Flour Tortillas (10‑inch) (large, soft, preferably flour)
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (sharp cheddar, grated)
  • 1 cup French Fries (frozen or homemade, cut into thin strips)
  • 1/2 cup Shredded Lettuce (iceberg or romaine, washed and dried)
  • 1/4 cup Pickles (diced dill pickles)
  • 1/2 cup Black Beans (canned, drained and rinsed (optional))
  • 2 cloves Roasted Garlic (soft, mashed)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (regular brand)
  • 2 tbsp Aioli (store‑bought or homemade)
  • 1 tsp Olive Oil (for roasting garlic)

Instructions

  1. Mix Spice Blend

    In a small mixing bowl, combine granulated garlic, granulated onion, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until evenly mixed.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Prepare Donkey Sauce

    Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the roasted garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and aioli, whisking until smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  3. Cook French Fries

    Preheat oven to 425°F. Spread frozen French fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 18‑20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 425°F

  4. Brown Ground Beef in Bacon Fat

    While fries are baking, add 2 tbsp bacon fat to a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Once melted, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Sprinkle the spice blend over the meat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is browned and cooked through, about 8‑10 minutes.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: Medium‑high heat

  5. Warm Tortillas

    Place tortillas on a clean plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 30 seconds or steam in a skillet for 1 minute until pliable.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Assemble Burritos

    Lay a warm tortilla flat. Spread 1‑2 tbsp donkey sauce in the center. Add a scoop of cooked ground beef, a handful of French fries, shredded lettuce, diced pickles, black beans (if using), and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar. Fold the sides in, then roll tightly.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Melt Cheese on Top

    Place assembled burritos seam‑side down on a baking sheet. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the tops. Broil in the oven for 1‑2 minutes, watching closely, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Broil

  8. Serve

    Transfer burritos to plates, drizzle with extra donkey sauce if desired, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
620
Protein
28g
Carbohydrates
55g
Fat
32g
Fiber
5g

Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains gluten, Contains dairy

Allergens: Dairy (cheddar cheese, aioli), Gluten (flour tortilla), Egg (aioli)

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Instead of Ground Beef (80/20): Ground turkey, Ground chuck
  • Instead of Bacon Fat: Butter, Olive oil
  • Instead of Granulated Garlic: Fresh garlic
  • Instead of Granulated Onion: Fresh onion
  • Instead of Flour Tortillas (10‑inch): Whole‑wheat tortillas, Gluten‑free tortillas
  • Instead of Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack, Mexican blend cheese
  • Instead of French Fries: Sweet potato fries, Potato wedges
  • Instead of Pickles: Pickle relish
  • Instead of Black Beans: Pinto beans, Kidney beans
  • Instead of Roasted Garlic: Garlic paste
  • Instead of Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce (less sweet)
  • Instead of Aioli: Mayonnaise mixed with garlic
  • Instead of Olive Oil: Canola oil

Equipment Needed

  • Large Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven
  • Tongs
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Plate or Serving Platter
  • Aluminum Foil (optional) (optional)

Critical Steps — Do Not Skip

  • Mixing the spice blend ensures even seasoning of the beef
  • Cooking the ground beef in bacon fat adds depth of flavor and prevents dryness
  • Warming the tortillas prevents tearing during rolling
  • Melted cheddar cheese should be watched closely to avoid burning

Chef Tips from the Video

  • Use high‑quality bacon fat for a smoky flavor
  • For extra crunch, add a handful of crushed tortilla chips inside the burrito
  • A dash of hot sauce in the donkey sauce adds a pleasant kick

Troubleshooting

Ground beef turns out dry

Cook over medium heat and add a splash of beef broth or extra bacon fat if needed

Tortilla tears when rolling

Warm the tortilla longer or cover with a damp towel before rolling

Donkey sauce is too thin

Add a little more aioli or mash the roasted garlic finer

Cheese burns under broiler

Broil for a shorter time and keep the oven door slightly open to watch closely

Storage

Refrigerator: Store assembled burritos in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in oven or skillet

Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat before serving

Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours

Make-Ahead Tips

  • Donkey sauce can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator
  • Cook and crisp the French fries in advance; reheat briefly before assembling
  • Ground beef can be cooked ahead and reheated gently over low heat

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cultural significance and history of the cheeseburger burrito in American fusion cuisine?

The cheeseburger burrito blends two iconic American comfort foods—the cheeseburger and the Mexican‑style burrito—reflecting the cross‑cultural culinary experimentation popular in the United States since the late 20th century. It emerged as a fun, portable twist on classic diner fare, often featured in food‑truck menus and TV cooking shows like TODAY Food.

What regional variations of the cheeseburger burrito exist within United States cuisine?

In the Southwest, cooks often add jalapeños, chipotle mayo, or corn tortillas for a spicier profile. In the Midwest, the burrito may include cheddar cheese and pickles, mirroring the traditional cheeseburger. Some West Coast versions swap beef for turkey or add avocado for a fresh twist.

How is the cheeseburger burrito traditionally served in American diners?

Typically, the burrito is served hot, sliced in half, with a side of French fries or onion rings, and accompanied by ketchup, mustard, or a specialty sauce like the Donkey Sauce. It’s often presented on a simple plate with a fork and napkin for easy handheld eating.

During what occasions is the cheeseburger burrito commonly enjoyed in American culture?

It’s popular at casual gatherings such as game‑day parties, backyard barbecues, and late‑night snack runs. The dish also appears on special menu items for sports events and food‑festival competitions, like the TODAY Food "Flavortown Food Fight" episode.

What makes the cheeseburger burrito special or unique in American fusion cuisine?

The combination of juicy, bacon‑fat‑seared ground beef with crispy French fries inside a soft tortilla creates a textural contrast rarely found in traditional dishes. The Donkey Sauce adds a tangy, garlicky depth that ties the flavors together, making it a standout comfort‑food mash‑up.

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the cheeseburger burrito?

Overfilling the tortilla, which causes tearing; under‑seasoning the beef; not crisping the fries enough, leading to soggy bites; and broiling the cheese too long, which can burn the sauce. Follow the critical steps and watch the broiler closely to prevent these issues.

Why does this recipe use bacon fat instead of plain oil for cooking the ground beef?

Bacon fat adds a smoky, rich flavor that mimics the taste of a classic cheeseburger cooked on a grill, while also helping the beef stay juicy. Plain oil would lack that depth and could result in a flatter flavor profile.

Can I make the cheeseburger burrito ahead of time and how should I store it?

Yes. Prepare the Donkey Sauce and cook the ground beef and fries up to 2 days in advance. Assemble the burritos, wrap tightly in foil, and refrigerate. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 10‑12 minutes before serving to restore crispness.

What texture and appearance should I look for when the cheeseburger burrito is done?

The tortilla should be lightly browned and pliable, the interior should show a golden‑crisp layer of French fries, the beef should be fully cooked with no pink, and the cheddar cheese on top should be melted, bubbly, and lightly browned without burning.

What does the YouTube channel TODAY Food specialize in?

TODAY Food focuses on quick, approachable recipes that blend classic American comfort foods with modern twists, often featuring celebrity collaborations, themed cooking challenges, and step‑by‑step video tutorials for home cooks.

How does the YouTube channel TODAY Food's approach to American fusion cooking differ from other cooking channels?

TODAY Food emphasizes high‑energy, entertaining presentations while still providing clear, practical instructions. Their recipes, like the cheeseburger burrito, often incorporate bold flavor pairings and creative plating, setting them apart from more traditional or technique‑focused channels.

Last updated: September 3, 2026

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Guy Fieri Shares His Recipe for Bacon Cheeseburger Burrito

Recipe by TODAY Food

A hearty fusion of a classic cheeseburger and a burrito, packed with seasoned ground beef cooked in bacon fat, crispy French fries, fresh lettuce, pickles, and a tangy Donkey Sauce. Wrapped in a warm flour tortilla and topped with melted cheddar, this dish is the ultimate comfort food featured on TODAY Food.

MediumAmerican FusionServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
5m
Prep
42m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
57m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$17.82
Total cost
$4.46
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Mixing the spice blend ensures even seasoning of the beef
  • Cooking the ground beef in bacon fat adds depth of flavor and prevents dryness
  • Warming the tortillas prevents tearing during rolling
  • Melted cheddar cheese should be watched closely to avoid burning

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot skillet and oven with oven mitts to avoid burns
  • Be careful when broiling; cheese can splatter hot oil
  • Ensure ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the cheeseburger burrito in American fusion cuisine?

A

The cheeseburger burrito blends two iconic American comfort foods—the cheeseburger and the Mexican‑style burrito—reflecting the cross‑cultural culinary experimentation popular in the United States since the late 20th century. It emerged as a fun, portable twist on classic diner fare, often featured in food‑truck menus and TV cooking shows like TODAY Food.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of the cheeseburger burrito exist within United States cuisine?

A

In the Southwest, cooks often add jalapeños, chipotle mayo, or corn tortillas for a spicier profile. In the Midwest, the burrito may include cheddar cheese and pickles, mirroring the traditional cheeseburger. Some West Coast versions swap beef for turkey or add avocado for a fresh twist.

cultural
Q

How is the cheeseburger burrito traditionally served in American diners?

A

Typically, the burrito is served hot, sliced in half, with a side of French fries or onion rings, and accompanied by ketchup, mustard, or a specialty sauce like the Donkey Sauce. It’s often presented on a simple plate with a fork and napkin for easy handheld eating.

cultural
Q

During what occasions is the cheeseburger burrito commonly enjoyed in American culture?

A

It’s popular at casual gatherings such as game‑day parties, backyard barbecues, and late‑night snack runs. The dish also appears on special menu items for sports events and food‑festival competitions, like the TODAY Food "Flavortown Food Fight" episode.

cultural
Q

What makes the cheeseburger burrito special or unique in American fusion cuisine?

A

The combination of juicy, bacon‑fat‑seared ground beef with crispy French fries inside a soft tortilla creates a textural contrast rarely found in traditional dishes. The Donkey Sauce adds a tangy, garlicky depth that ties the flavors together, making it a standout comfort‑food mash‑up.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the cheeseburger burrito?

A

Overfilling the tortilla, which causes tearing; under‑seasoning the beef; not crisping the fries enough, leading to soggy bites; and broiling the cheese too long, which can burn the sauce. Follow the critical steps and watch the broiler closely to prevent these issues.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use bacon fat instead of plain oil for cooking the ground beef?

A

Bacon fat adds a smoky, rich flavor that mimics the taste of a classic cheeseburger cooked on a grill, while also helping the beef stay juicy. Plain oil would lack that depth and could result in a flatter flavor profile.

technical
Q

Can I make the cheeseburger burrito ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Prepare the Donkey Sauce and cook the ground beef and fries up to 2 days in advance. Assemble the burritos, wrap tightly in foil, and refrigerate. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 10‑12 minutes before serving to restore crispness.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the cheeseburger burrito is done?

A

The tortilla should be lightly browned and pliable, the interior should show a golden‑crisp layer of French fries, the beef should be fully cooked with no pink, and the cheddar cheese on top should be melted, bubbly, and lightly browned without burning.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel TODAY Food specialize in?

A

TODAY Food focuses on quick, approachable recipes that blend classic American comfort foods with modern twists, often featuring celebrity collaborations, themed cooking challenges, and step‑by‑step video tutorials for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel TODAY Food's approach to American fusion cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

TODAY Food emphasizes high‑energy, entertaining presentations while still providing clear, practical instructions. Their recipes, like the cheeseburger burrito, often incorporate bold flavor pairings and creative plating, setting them apart from more traditional or technique‑focused channels.

channel

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