Description
Craving a fun, portable twist on pizza that’s cheesy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing? Look no further than Slow Cooker Pizza Burritos! This delightful recipe combines the classic flavors of pizza—tangy sauce, melty mozzarella, and pepperoni—wrapped in soft flour tortillas, with a buttery, garlic-herb crust, all prepared with the help of a slow cooker for a warm, gooey filling.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
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Flour Tortillas (5, soft taco size, about 8-inch): Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping.
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Substitution: Whole wheat tortillas, gluten-free tortillas, or large corn tortillas (may be less pliable).
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Pizza Sauce (1 cup): Provides tangy, tomatoey flavor.
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Substitution: Marinara sauce, homemade tomato sauce, or pesto for a twist.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1.5 cups): Melts into gooey, stretchy goodness.
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Substitution: Cheddar, provolone, pepper jack (for spice), or vegan mozzarella.
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Pepperoni Slices (30-40, about ½ cup): Adds classic pizza flavor and a bit of spice.
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Substitution: Sausage crumbles, diced ham, mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for vegetarian options.
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Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp, melted): Creates a crispy, flavorful crust.
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Substitution: Olive oil or vegan butter for dairy-free.
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Garlic Powder (⅓ tsp): Infuses the crust with savory warmth.
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Substitution: 1 fresh garlic clove, minced, or ¼ tsp garlic salt (reduce added salt).
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Italian Seasoning (½ tsp): Adds classic pizza herb flavor.
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Substitution: Dried oregano, basil, or a mix of thyme and rosemary.
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Salt (pinch): Enhances the buttery crust.
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Substitution: Sea salt or omit for low-sodium diets.
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Shredded Parmesan (¼ cup, for topping): Adds nutty, salty crunch.
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Substitution: Grated Pecorino Romano, nutritional yeast, or omit.
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Optional for Serving
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Extra Pizza Sauce or Ranch Dressing: For dipping.
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Substitution: Marinara, garlic aioli, or hot sauce.
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Fresh Parsley or Basil (chopped): For a fresh, colorful garnish.
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Substitution: Chives or no garnish.
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Why They’re Important: Tortillas provide the portable wrapper, pizza sauce and mozzarella deliver the classic pizza taste, and pepperoni adds savory depth. The garlic-herb butter and Parmesan create a crispy, flavorful crust, while dipping sauces and garnishes elevate the experience.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
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In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup pizza sauce, 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, and 30-40 pepperoni slices (or other toppings of choice). Stir gently to combine.
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If using additional toppings like mushrooms or bell peppers, sauté them briefly in a skillet with 1 tsp olive oil for 3-4 minutes to release moisture, then add to the mixture.
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Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the cheese loose for even melting. If using wet toppings (e.g., pineapple), pat dry to prevent a soggy filling.
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Step 2: Slow Cook the Filling
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Place the pizza filling mixture in the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
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Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-1.5 hours, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly. Stir gently halfway through to ensure even heating.
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Tip: Line the slow cooker with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray for easier cleanup. Check at the lower end of the time range to avoid overcooking, as the goal is a warm, melty filling.
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Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
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Lay out 5 flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon about ⅓ cup of the warm filling onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges to prevent leakage.
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Fold each tortilla like a burrito: fold in the left and right sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up, ensuring the seam is on the bottom. Press gently to seal.
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Tip: Don’t overstuff to avoid tearing. If the filling cools, warm the tortillas in the microwave for 10 seconds to make them more pliable.
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Step 4: Prepare the Garlic-Herb Butter
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In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter, ⅓ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
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Tip: Melt the butter in the microwave in 10-second intervals to avoid overheating. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
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Step 5: Crisp the Burritos
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Option 1: Skillet (preferred for stovetop crisping):
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brush each burrito generously with the garlic-herb butter on all sides.
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Place the burritos seam-side down in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if needed.
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Option 2: Oven (for oven-like results):
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
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Place the burritos seam-side down on the baking sheet and brush generously with the garlic-herb butter. Sprinkle each burrito with 1-2 tsp shredded Parmesan.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
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Option 3: Air Fryer (if available):
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Brush the burritos with garlic-herb butter and sprinkle with Parmesan. Place in the air fryer basket seam-side down.
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Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 7-9 minutes, checking for crispiness.
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Tip: For any method, watch closely to avoid burning. Keep cooked burritos warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while preparing others.
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Step 6: Serve
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Let the burritos cool for 5 minutes to set the filling and make them easier to handle.
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Serve hot, alone or with extra pizza sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant finish.
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Tip: Cut the burritos in half diagonally for a fun presentation, and serve with small bowls of dipping sauce for an interactive meal.
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