
This Sloppy Joe Mac and Cheese Wrap delivers everything you crave in comfort food but in a portable package Rich beefy Sloppy Joe filling is snuggled up with creamy mac and cheese all tucked into a soft tortilla My family devours these every time I serve them and they make a fun change from the usual sandwich or pasta night
I started making these on football Sundays and now they are requested as lunchbox treats and casual dinners alike They always bring smiles to the table
Ingredients
- Olive oil: for sautéing onions and beef Choose a mild extra virgin variety for flavor
- Onion: adds sweetness and depth Make sure it is diced very finely so it melts into the filling
- Garlic: gives aromatic richness Look for plump firm cloves without green sprouts
- Ground beef: for a hearty meat base Pick 80 20 or 85 15 for balance of flavor and tenderness
- Ketchup and tomato paste: add tangy saucy flavor Use quality tomato paste for concentrate richness
- Worcestershire sauce: brings savory umami Read the label and choose one with natural ingredients
- Yellow mustard and brown sugar: for classic tang and hint of sweetness Mustard should be fresh brown sugar soft and lump free
- Salt and pepper: for seasoning always taste as you go
- Elbow macaroni: holds creamy cheese sauce Look for sturdy pasta with no cracks or broken pieces
- Butter: for adding richness Choose unsalted so you can control seasoning
- Flour: thickens the cheese sauce Make sure it is fresh and not compacted
- Milk: whole or 2 percent both work Use well chilled milk for a smoother consistency
- Cheddar cheese: brings the classic mac character Always use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt
- Flour tortillas: large size soft and pliable Warm them slightly for wrap ease
- Optional toppings: such as extra cheese pickles or hot sauce help you add your own style
- Butter or oil for toasting wraps: gives a golden finish Choose a neutral oil or leave out for a softer bite
Step by Step Instructions
- Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- In a wide skillet warm olive oil over medium heat Add diced onions and cook slowly for about five minutes stirring often until they are translucent and just turning golden Add the minced garlic and continue to stir for about thirty seconds until fragrant but not browned as this keeps the foundation sweet and aromatic
- Brown the Beef:
- Add ground beef to the onions and garlic Break into small pieces and stir frequently Keep the heat at medium so the meat browns gently on all sides This step takes about six to eight minutes and you want the beef to lose its raw color and start to crisp at the edges Drain excess fat if needed
- Build the Sauce and Simmer:
- Stir in the ketchup tomato paste Worcestershire mustard and brown sugar Mix until everything is evenly combined Taste and season with salt and pepper Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for five to seven minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld Stir occasionally to prevent sticking If it looks too thick add a splash of water
- Cook the Mac and Cheese:
- Boil Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook just until al dente following package directions Drain immediately so the pasta does not get mushy
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium low heat Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about one minute You want the mixture to be pale and bubbling but not browned Gradually pour in the milk whisking constantly to avoid lumps Cook gently until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon This usually takes about three to five minutes
- Finish with Cheese and Pasta:
- Lower the heat and add grated cheddar cheese Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is velvety Fold in the drained macaroni and stir until every piece is coated Taste for salt and pepper and adjust as needed
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Warm the tortillas for a few seconds either in a dry skillet or the microwave This makes them flexible and prevents tearing Lay out each tortilla and spread a generous layer of mac and cheese in the center Add a good scoop of Sloppy Joe filling on top Layer any extra toppings like more cheese or pickles Fold the sides over the filling then roll up tightly into a burrito shape
- Toast the Wraps:
- In a skillet over medium heat melt a little butter or drizzle with oil Place wraps seam side down and toast for one or two minutes on each side until golden and crisp The outside should be toasty and hold everything together inside

I love the creamy sharpness the cheddar brings and my youngest always requests extra cheese inside Whenever I make these I remember the time my cousin snuck leftover mac and cheese into her lunch wrap now it is a family trick
Storage Tips
To keep wraps at their best allow them to cool before wrapping individually in foil or parchment paper Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days When reheating do so gently in a skillet or oven to retain the crispness of the tortilla Wraps can also be frozen and reheated straight from the freezer just add a little extra time
Ingredient Swaps
If you prefer ground turkey or plant based protein both work well in place of beef Just be sure to season amply and adjust cook time as needed No cheddar Use Monterey Jack mozzarella or any good melting cheese Gluten free tortillas and pasta make this easily adaptable for dietary needs
Serving Suggestions
Cut wraps in half and serve with crunchy dill pickles or a pile of tangy coleslaw For parties arrange halves on a platter and serve with hot sauce or chipotle mayo on the side These also pair well with roasted potato wedges or a crisp green salad
Recipe Roots
Both Sloppy Joes and macaroni and cheese trace their histories to classic American home cooking Their flavors meld perfectly in this playful fusion dish This mashup reminds me of diners and family cookouts where comfort food is always on the menu
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, both the Sloppy Joe beef and mac & cheese can be prepared in advance. Store separately in the fridge; assemble and warm wraps when ready to serve.
- → What tortillas work best for holding the filling?
Large flour tortillas work best for flexibility and holding the generous filling. Warm them slightly to prevent cracking while folding.
- → How can I add more flavor or heat?
Layer in pickles, jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce before rolling the wraps. Use extra sharp cheddar or chipotle mayo for extra kick.
- → Can I make these wraps vegetarian?
Swap ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils in the Sloppy Joe mixture for a vegetarian alternative. Keep mac & cheese as is or use plant-based cheese.
- → Are the wraps good for meal prep?
Absolutely! Assemble wraps ahead, wrap tightly, and chill. Toast or grill before serving for best texture and flavor.
- → What sides pair well with these wraps?
Serve alongside coleslaw, pickles, or crispy potato wedges for a classic comfort meal experience.