If you’re the kind of person who keeps a bag of Flaming Hot Cheetos handy for snack attacks, let me introduce your new obsession: the Hot Cheeto Burrito. It’s everything you love about burritos—juicy steak, creamy avocado, gooey cheese—wrapped up in a crunchy, spicy Hot Cheeto coating. This is not your average meal. It’s bold, fun, and ridiculously satisfying.
Let’s break it down step by step. This burrito is super simple to make, and I promise, it’s worth every crunchy bite.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Cheeto Burrito Recipe
This burrito isn’t just food—it’s an experience. The spicy kick of Flaming Hot Cheetos pairs perfectly with the richness of the steak and avocado. Plus, that crunch? It’s game-changing. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a food experiment with friends, this recipe delivers big-time flavor.
Ingredients for the Perfect Flaming Hot Cheeto Burrito
Here’s what you’ll need for two servings:
- 1 lb flank steak (455 g): Tender and full of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning: Adds a little spice to the steak.
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided: Essential for seasoning every layer.
- 2 teaspoons lime juice, divided: A zesty burst of freshness.
- 2 avocados: Creamy and buttery, they balance the heat.
- ¼ cup Mexican sour cream (55 g): Adds tangy, smooth creaminess.
- 8 oz Flaming Hot Cheetos (225 g), 1 bag: The crunchy, spicy star of the show.
- ½ cup canned cheddar cheese (50 g): Because melty cheese is a must.
- 1 canola oil, for frying: For that crispy burrito shell.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Spicy Hot Cheeto Burrito
Step 1: Prep the Flank Steak
Flank steak is the heart of this burrito, and seasoning it right makes all the difference.
- Season the steak: Rub the flank steak with taco seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of lime juice. Give it a good massage—don’t be shy!
- Cook it up: Heat a skillet (or grill) on medium-high. Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side. If you prefer it more cooked, add a minute or two.
- Let it rest: Rest the steak for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly. Trust me, this step makes it juicy.
Step 2: Mash the Avocados
Avocado gives the burrito a creamy, cooling layer to balance the heat.
- Scoop and mash: Halve the avocados, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Add the remaining lime juice and a pinch of salt. Mash it up!
- Taste and tweak: This is the cool, creamy layer of the burrito, so adjust the seasoning as you like.
Step 3: Crush the Flaming Hot Cheetos
This step is where the magic happens—get ready to turn those Cheetos into a crunchy coating.
- Crush them up: Pour the Hot Cheetos into a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin (or your hands if you’re feeling feisty).
- Set aside: Keep the crushed Cheetos ready to coat your burrito later.
Step 4: Assemble the Burrito
Here’s where it all comes together.
- Layer it up: Lay out a tortilla and spread a generous amount of mashed avocado. Add a layer of steak slices.
- Cheese it up: Drizzle on the canned cheddar cheese for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Sprinkle the crunch: Add a handful of crushed Cheetos inside the burrito for extra texture.
- Roll it up: Fold in the sides and roll the burrito tightly.
Step 5: Coat and Fry
This is the step that takes your burrito to the next level.
- Brush with sour cream: Lightly coat the outside of the burrito with Mexican sour cream.
- Add the crunch: Press the crushed Hot Cheetos onto the burrito until it’s completely covered.
- Fry it up: Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the burrito for 1–2 minutes on each side until crispy and golden.
Tips for Nailing the Perfect Flaming Hot Cheetos Burrito
- Don’t skip the rest time for the steak: It makes the meat tender and juicy.
- Get the Cheetos crush just right: Leave some small chunks for extra crunch.
- Try baking instead of frying: If you prefer a lighter option, bake the coated burrito at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
FAQs About the Hot Cheeto Burrito Recipe
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu works well. Adjust the seasoning to fit your protein.
No worries! You can swap Flaming Hot Cheetos for regular Cheetos or another snack with less heat.
Yes! Prep the steak, avocado, and crushed Cheetos in advance. Assemble and fry just before serving for maximum crunch.
Pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes to keep the coating crispy.
Sure! Mexican sour cream has a tangier flavor, but regular sour cream works just as well.
Final Thoughts
The Hot Cheeto Burrito is bold, fun, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect recipe to spice up your lunch game or impress your friends with something totally unique. From the tender steak to the crunchy Hot Cheeto crust, every bite is packed with excitement.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Share your photos or any creative twists you made—we’re all in this spicy burrito journey together.