Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It | Ultimate Homemade Recipe

The Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It is a delicious twist on the classic Crunchwrap Supreme, combining the satisfying crunch of Cheez-Its with the layers of flavor-packed ingredients that make the original so popular. This recipe is perfect for those who love bold flavors, crispy textures, and cheesy goodness all wrapped up in a convenient, handheld meal. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, dinner, or a party snack, this Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It will be a hit. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this unique and mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients for Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It

Essential Ingredients and Their Role

To make an outstanding Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It, gather the following ingredients:

Cheez-It Crackers: The star of this recipe, Cheez-It crackers add a crispy, cheesy layer that takes the traditional Crunchwrap to the next level.
Large Flour Tortillas: These tortillas will hold all the layers together, providing a soft outer shell that contrasts perfectly with the crunchy Cheez-Its.
Ground Beef: Seasoned ground beef adds a savory and hearty base to the Crunchwrap, delivering the classic flavors of a taco.
Taco Seasoning: A mix of spices that infuses the ground beef with bold, Mexican-inspired flavors.
Nacho Cheese Sauce: Creamy and indulgent, the nacho cheese sauce brings a rich, cheesy element to every bite.
Sour Cream: Adds a cool and tangy contrast to the spicy and savory ingredients.
Shredded Lettuce: Provides a fresh, crisp texture that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Diced Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, tomatoes add a burst of flavor and color.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully inside the Crunchwrap, enhancing its cheesy goodness.
Tostada Shells: These crunchy shells add an extra layer of texture, making the Crunchwrap even more satisfying.

Substitutions and Variations

Customize your Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It with these substitutions and variations:

Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor or to cater to dietary preferences.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for added spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add black beans or refried beans for a vegetarian version that’s just as delicious.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy taco seasoning to suit your taste.

Where to Source Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, source your ingredients from high-quality suppliers:

Cheez-It Crackers: Available at most grocery stores, these are the foundation of your Crunchwrap.
Ground Beef: Purchase from a trusted butcher or grocery store. For the best results, choose 80/20 ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Vegetables: Fresh lettuce and tomatoes can be found at local farmers’ markets or grocery stores.
Tortillas and Tostada Shells: Look for fresh, high-quality tortillas and tostada shells in the bakery section or Mexican food aisle of your grocery store.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It

Preparing the Ground Beef

The seasoned ground beef is the heart of this Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It, providing the savory base that ties all the ingredients together.

Brown the Beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy Crunchwrap.
Add Taco Seasoning: Return the skillet to the heat and sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef. Stir in about 1/4 cup of water and let the beef simmer until the seasoning is fully absorbed and the beef is coated in a flavorful sauce. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Set Aside: Remove the skillet from the heat and set the seasoned beef aside. You can cover it with a lid to keep it warm while you prepare the other ingredients.

Assembling the Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It

Assembling the Crunchwrap is the most fun part, as you get to layer all the delicious ingredients before wrapping it up into a perfectly portable meal.

Lay Out the Tortilla: Start by laying a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. This will be the base of your Crunchwrap.
Add the Ground Beef: Spoon a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef onto the center of the tortilla. Spread it out slightly, but leave enough room around the edges to fold the tortilla.
Layer the Cheez-Its: Next, add a layer of Cheez-It crackers directly on top of the ground beef. Make sure they cover the beef completely, as this will provide that signature crunch.
Top with Nacho Cheese: Drizzle a few spoonfuls of warm nacho cheese sauce over the Cheez-Its. This will help the crackers stay in place and add a creamy, cheesy layer.
Add Tostada Shell: Place a tostada shell on top of the nacho cheese layer. The tostada shell adds another level of crunch and helps to hold the shape of the Crunchwrap.
Spread Sour Cream: Spread a thin layer of sour cream over the tostada shell. This adds a tangy contrast to the other rich ingredients.
Add Lettuce and Tomatoes: Sprinkle a handful of shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes over the sour cream. These fresh vegetables balance the heaviness of the cheese and beef.
Sprinkle Shredded Cheese: Finally, top everything with a handful of shredded cheese. This will melt during cooking and hold the layers together.

Folding and Cooking the Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It

Folding the Crunchwrap correctly is key to keeping all the layers intact while you cook it to crispy perfection.

Fold the Tortilla: Starting from the bottom edge, fold the tortilla up over the center. Continue folding the edges toward the center in a circular motion, creating pleats as you go. The goal is to completely enclose the filling within the tortilla.
Heat a Skillet: Heat a large, dry skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the folded Crunchwrap seam-side down in the skillet.
Cook Until Crispy: Cook the Crunchwrap for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy. The cheese inside should be melted, and the layers should hold together firmly.
Repeat: If you’re making multiple Crunchwraps, repeat the process until all are cooked. You can keep them warm in a low oven (200°F or 95°C) while you finish cooking the rest.

Tips for the Perfect Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It

Balancing Flavors and Textures

Achieving the right balance of flavors and textures is crucial for making the perfect Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It:

Crunch and Creaminess: The combination of crunchy Cheez-Its, tostada shell, and creamy nacho cheese creates a delightful contrast in every bite.
Spicy and Cool: Balance the spicy taco seasoning and cheese with cool sour cream and fresh vegetables for a more complex flavor profile.
Cheese Variety: Mixing different types of cheese can add depth to the flavor. Consider using a sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor or adding some pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure your Crunchwrap turns out perfectly every time, keep these cooking tips in mind:

Even Heat: Cook the Crunchwrap on medium heat to ensure the tortilla becomes crispy without burning. If the heat is too high, the outside may burn before the cheese inside melts.
Press Down: Use a spatula to gently press down on the Crunchwrap while it cooks. This helps to seal the edges and ensures the tortilla crisps evenly.
Preventing Soggy Tortillas: If your tortilla becomes too soft while assembling, you can lightly toast it in the skillet before adding the filling. This will prevent it from becoming soggy when you cook the assembled Crunchwrap.

Enhancing the Dish

Consider these additions and variations to make your Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It even more exciting:

Add Guacamole: For an extra layer of flavor, add a spoonful of guacamole inside the Crunchwrap before folding.
Salsa on the Side: Serve with a side of salsa or hot sauce for dipping. This adds a tangy and spicy element to the dish.
Grill the Cheez-Its: For an extra smoky flavor, lightly toast the Cheez-Its in the oven or on a grill before adding them to the Crunchwrap.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Macronutrient Breakdown

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content of a Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It:

Calories: Each Crunchwrap typically contains around 500-600 calories, depending on the size and specific ingredients used.
Protein: The ground beef and cheese provide a good source of protein, with about 25-30 grams per serving.

Calories and Macronutrient Breakdown (continued)

Carbohydrates: The tortillas, Cheez-Its, and tostada shell contribute to the carbohydrate content, which is typically around 40-50 grams per serving.
Fat: The dish contains approximately 25-30 grams of fat, primarily from the cheese, sour cream, and ground beef. You can reduce this by using leaner meat and low-fat cheese options.
Fiber: The addition of lettuce, tomatoes, and any beans (if used) can contribute to the fiber content, usually around 3-5 grams per serving.
Sodium: Due to the seasoned beef, Cheez-Its, and nacho cheese sauce, the sodium content can be relatively high. Opt for low-sodium alternatives if you’re watching your sodium intake.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Despite being an indulgent treat, the Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It can offer some nutritional benefits:

Protein-Rich: The ground beef or alternative protein provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
Calcium from Cheese: The cheese contributes to your daily calcium intake, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Antioxidants from Vegetables: The fresh vegetables, like lettuce and tomatoes, are sources of vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health and immune function.

Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Needs

If you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions, here’s how you can adapt the Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It:

Low-Carb Option: Replace the flour tortilla with a low-carb wrap and use a smaller amount of Cheez-Its or substitute with a keto-friendly cracker.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas and gluten-free crackers to accommodate a gluten-free diet. Ensure all other ingredients, such as taco seasoning, are also gluten-free.
Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or beans. You can also add more vegetables to bulk up the filling.
Lower Calorie: Use lean ground turkey or chicken, low-fat cheese, and light sour cream to reduce the overall calorie count without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It Ahead of Time?

While Crunchwraps are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time. Cook the ground beef, chop the vegetables, and have all the ingredients ready to assemble just before serving. This ensures the Crunchwrap stays crispy and the flavors are at their best.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

If you have leftover Crunchwraps, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to regain some of the crispiness, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Can I Freeze Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It?

Yes, you can freeze assembled but uncooked Crunchwraps. Wrap each Crunchwrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then cook in a skillet as directed.

What Sides Go Well with Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It?

Serve your Crunchwrap with simple sides like chips and salsa, guacamole, or a light salad. For a more substantial meal, consider adding Mexican rice or refried beans.

How Can I Make the Crunchwrap Spicier?

To kick up the heat, add sliced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or drizzle hot sauce inside the Crunchwrap before folding. You can also use a spicy cheese blend or spicy taco seasoning.

Conclusion

The Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It is an innovative and flavorful twist on the classic Crunchwrap, offering a delightful combination of crunch, creaminess, and savory goodness. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for those who love bold flavors and creative twists on traditional dishes. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It in no time and impress your family and friends.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick meal or serving it at a party, the Crunchwrap Supreme Cheez-It will not disappoint. Its layers of seasoned beef, crispy Cheez-Its, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheese are wrapped up in a perfectly toasted tortilla that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this cheesy, crunchy masterpiece!