
This over-the-top Sloppy Joe Mac and Cheese Wrap totally hits the spot when you want all-out comfort food in every bite. It’s got gooey mac, saucy beef, and a crisp tortilla, all wrapped up together for major satisfaction. These are perfect for a fast meal after a long day or if you want something fun for a group hangout.
First time I made these at a gathering, everyone grabbed them so fast I barely got one for myself. Since then, this has become my top pick when I need something everybody will love.
Irresistible Ingredients
- Large flour tortillas: Grab the freshest ones you can so they roll up nice and easy.
- Extra shredded cheese: Adds that crazy good gooeyness inside — try a zesty blend if you want.
- Sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese: More cheese, more fun. Grate it fresh for top-notch meltiness.
- Butter or cooking spray: Gets the outsides crunchy and golden.
- Yellow onion and red bell pepper: These give a slightly sweet kick. Pick firm veggies for the best flavor.
- Garlic powder and mustard powder: They amp up your cheese sauce’s flavor in no time.
- Ketchup and tomato paste: For that classic sweet-tangy Sloppy Joe kick. Tube paste packs a ton of flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce: Brings a savory punch to the beef filling.
- Butter, flour, and whole milk: Whisk these into a creamy sauce that ties everything together.
- Chili powder and smoked paprika: Add smoky and spicy notes — real smoked paprika is extra tasty.
- Garlic: Go for plump cloves for major aroma.
- Brown sugar and yellow mustard: This sweet-and-tangy team is behind all the flavor pop.
- Cayenne: Totally optional, but adds fiery heat if you want it.
- Elbow macaroni: Use bronze-cut for extra sauce cling and the best texture.
- Ground beef: Look for 80/20 mix — if you spot fresh-ground, grab it for juicy results.
Easy How-To Steps
- Slice and Serve:
- Let your wraps cool off for a few, then slice them on a slant so you can see all the layers. Serve hot. Get extra napkins because these are messy and delicious.
- Grill the Wraps:
- On a greased hot pan, set the wraps seam side down first. Let them get deep golden and crispy, then flip and toast the other side. The cheese should be oozing out.
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Microwave or warm your tortillas until bendy. Spoon mac and cheese down the center, pile beef mixture on next, sprinkle with more cheese, tuck in the bottom, fold both sides, then roll it up nice and tight.
- Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- Heat oil and soften onion and red bell pepper. Crumble beef in and brown well, then drain off grease. Stir in garlic, then sizzle the tomato paste. Next, add ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne (if you like heat). Season, let it simmer to thicken, and cool some before assembling.
- Build the Cheese Sauce:
- Let butter melt in your pot, then whisk in flour, stirring until you have a pale paste. Pour in milk slowly, whisking out any lumps. As it thickens, take it off heat and add cheese in handfuls. Mix in garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and fold in your noodles until glossy. Keep it covered and warm.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil your macaroni till just tender, drain, and put aside so it won’t turn mushy later.

Honestly, that smoky hit from paprika lifts both the cheese and the meat big time. My nephew was bouncing around the kitchen just smelling these cook. Trying to out-roll each other’s wraps was the best kind of chaos.
Smart Storage
Wrap up leftovers snug in foil or plastic and pop them in the fridge for up to three days. Warm them up on the stove over low for a crisp bite again. You can freeze these too — just thaw, reheat gently, and they’re nearly as good as the day you made them.
Swap-Outs
Ground turkey or chicken swap in for the beef without missing a beat. Want to change up the cheeses? Monterey Jack or pepper jack both work. You can totally use whole wheat or gluten free tortillas too, just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Fun Ways to Serve
Pair these with pickles, crisp slaw, or a handful of greens for balance. Tomato soup on the side gives old-school comfort vibes. I set out extra hot sauce and jalapeño slices for anyone needing a spicy kick.

Background Story
Sloppy Joes have been a favorite across America for generations. This combo takes two crowd-pleasers seen at family suppers and school lunches and turns them into something new, but still totally feels like home.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I prevent the tortillas from tearing?
Get your tortillas nice and warm before stuffing. Keeping them soft makes rolling up easier and helps avoid rips. Try not to pack in too much filling and roll tight.
- → What cheese works best in the macaroni?
Sharp cheddar melts great and brings big flavor. You'll get better ooze using cheese you grate yourself instead of the bagged kind.
- → Can I prepare any components in advance?
Sure thing—whip up the beef and macaroni cheese the day before and keep them chilled. Throw wraps together and grill when you're ready to eat.
- → Is there a way to make these spicier?
If you like heat, mix in extra cayenne or splash some hot sauce into the beef mixture as you cook.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
Try cold coleslaw, crisp salad, or a pile of pickles. They cut through all the rich flavors and keep things fresh.
- → Can I substitute ground beef?
You sure can. Go with ground turkey or some plant protein crumbles and spice them just like the beef version.