Burrito Bliss: Choosing The Perfect Cheese

There are many types of cheese that can be used in burritos, depending on personal preference. Cheddar is a popular choice due to its rich and robust flavour, sharp taste, and melting capabilities. Other options include Monterey Jack, a blend of cheeses, or canned cheddar cheese soup. The type of cheese chosen can impact the overall flavour and texture of the burrito, making it a crucial ingredient in this popular dish.

Cheddar cheese

When making a burrito with cheddar cheese, it is important to grate the cheese yourself. Pre-packaged, shredded cheeses are often coated with anti-clumping chemicals, which can prevent them from melting properly and reduce their flavour. Freshly grated cheddar will be much more creamy and flavourful, and will melt more easily.

For a heartier option, a beef, bean, and cheese burrito can be made using sharp cheddar to cut through the richness of the other ingredients. This type of burrito typically includes ground beef, refried beans, salsa, and sour cream. The sharp cheddar adds a savoury kick that balances the other flavours.

Additionally, cheddar cheese soup can be used as a creamy, cheesy base for burrito fillings. This canned soup is blended with ground beef, salsa, and taco seasoning to create a quick and easy filling. The soup provides a rich, cheesy flavour without the need for additional shredded cheese.

Whether shredded, sharp, or in soup form, cheddar cheese is an excellent choice for burritos. It adds a savoury, creamy element that pairs well with other classic burrito ingredients. With its melting properties and robust flavour, cheddar is a popular and versatile option for this dish.

Monterey Jack cheese

Monterey Jack is a semi-hard cheese, similar to cheddars in texture, and is usually a pale yellow colour. It is a good choice for those who want a cheese that melts easily and evenly, as it has a creamy texture and blends well with other ingredients. It is also a good choice for those who want a mild cheese that won't overpower the other flavours in the burrito.

When using Monterey Jack cheese in burritos, it is often combined with other cheeses, such as cheddar, to create a blend of flavours. This combination is a good choice for those who want the best of both worlds, as the cheddar adds a sharp, rich flavour that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients, while the Monterey Jack provides a creamy texture and mild flavour.

Blended cheeses

Choosing the Right Cheeses

Select cheeses that complement each other and enhance the overall flavour of your burrito. Consider using a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack, as suggested by Isabel Orozco-Moore of Isabel Eats. The sharpness of cheddar pairs well with the mild, creamy flavour of Monterey Jack, creating a balanced and tasty combination. You can also experiment with other blends, such as a mix of Monterey Jack and Colby Jack, or a three-cheese blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Jack cheese.

Proportion and Quantity

When blending cheeses, consider the proportion in which you combine them. For a more assertive flavour, use a higher ratio of a strong-flavoured cheese like cheddar. If you prefer a milder taste, opt for a higher proportion of a gentle cheese like Monterey Jack. The quantity of cheese you use will also depend on the size and number of burritos you're making. As a guide, a typical burrito might use around 1/2 cup of shredded cheese per serving.

Preparing the Cheese

For the best results, grate or shred your own cheese instead of using pre-packaged shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts more easily, has a creamier texture, and is more flavourful. When blending multiple cheeses, combine them in a medium bowl and toss them together before adding them to your burrito. This ensures that the cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Cooking and Serving

When cooking your burrito, consider baking it in the oven to melt the cheese evenly and create a cohesive filling. Place the burritos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted. You can also toast the burritos on a stovetop for a quicker option. Serve your blended cheese burritos with toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or hot sauce to enhance the flavour and provide a contrast of textures.

Sharp cheddar cheese

When making a burrito with sharp cheddar cheese, it is important to grate the cheese yourself. Pre-packaged, grated cheese is coated in anti-clumping chemicals, which can prevent it from melting properly. Freshly grated cheese is not only more flavoursome, but also creamier and easier to melt.

Canned cheddar cheese soup

Choosing the Right Soup

When selecting a canned cheddar cheese soup for your burritos, look for a product that has a creamy texture and a rich, cheesy flavour. One popular option is the Campbell's Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup, which has a velvety texture and a burst of cheesy flavour—perfect for adding that extra touch to your burritos.

Burrito Filling Ideas

Cooking and Assembly

When using canned cheddar cheese soup in your burritos, it's important to note that you should not dilute the soup with water. Simply heat the soup and use it as is. To assemble your burrito, spread the desired amount of soup onto a tortilla, add your chosen fillings, and roll it up. You can then bake the burrito in the oven or toast it on a stovetop until it's heated through and the tortilla is lightly toasted.

Serving Suggestions

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftover burritos, they can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for future meals. To store, wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 6 months. To reheat, thaw the burritos in the refrigerator overnight, then microwave them or heat them in the oven until warmed through.

Using canned cheddar cheese soup is a convenient and tasty way to make burritos, and it can be a great time-saver for busy weeknight meals. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavour, it adds a delicious touch to your favourite burrito fillings. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and easy dinner option, why not give canned cheddar cheese soup burritos a try?

Frequently asked questions