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How to Make Satisfying Melty Cheese Beef Wraps

These Melty Cheeseburger Wraps combine seasoned ground beef, sharp cheddar, and stretchy mozzarella encased in warm tortillas, then air-fried to golden perfection. Ideal for game days, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, they deliver satisfying crunch and gooey cheese without excess oil. Customizable with various proteins, cheeses, and toppings, they appeal to all taste preferences.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) large pasta shells
  • 8 slices turkey bacon, chopped
  • 1 cup (150 g) diced chicken ham
  • 1 cup (150 g) cooked ground beef
  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 Tbsp chopped green onions
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Wood chips (hickory or apple) for smoking
  • Cooking spray or a little oil

Instructions

  • Preheat your smoker to 225 °F (107 °C).
  • Cook the pasta shells in lightly salted boiling water until just al dente, then drain and let cool slightly.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped turkey bacon until crisp. Add the minced garlic, diced chicken ham, and cooked ground beef; sauté for another 2–3 minutes. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and green onions until smooth. Fold in the bacon-ham-beef mixture.
  • Spoon the filling into each pasta shell, arranging them snugly in a lightly oiled foil pan or baking dish.
  • Place wood chips in the smoker box, then set the pan of stuffed shells in the smoker. Smoke for about 1 hour, or until the cheese filling is melted and infused with smoke.
  • Remove from the smoker and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

 

Notes

  • Storage: Refrigerate cooled wraps in an airtight container up to 3 days. Freeze up to 1 month; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Variations: Try buffalo sauce and blue cheese for a spicy twist, or add caramelized onions and bacon for extra richness.
  • Safety Tip: Always cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160 °F.
  • Equipment Tip: If your air fryer is small, cook in batches and keep in a low oven to maintain crispness.
  • Serving Tip: Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for visual appeal.