Tortilla Burgers

When I first discovered Tortilla Burgers, or as I like to call them, Smash Burger Tacos, it was like a culinary light bulb went off in my head! I remember the first time I made them for my family on a warm summer evening. The sun was setting, and the air was filled with laughter and the aroma of sizzling beef. As we gathered around the table, I watched my kids’ eyes widen with excitement as they took their first bite. The crispy, cheesy goodness wrapped in a warm tortilla was a hit! This recipe is so much more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together.

Tortilla Burgers are perfect for any occasion – whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. They’re quick to whip up and can be customized to everyone's taste, making them a family favorite. Plus, there’s something about that delightful fusion of a burger and a taco that just makes my heart sing. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe in your back pocket!

Why You’ll Love Tortilla Burgers

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Minimal ingredients required, making it budget-friendly.
• Family-friendly and customizable to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Great for meal prep and can be frozen for future meals.
• Unique twist on classic burgers that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
• 6 small flour tortillas (soft taco size, try brands like Mission for a good texture)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or American cheese (feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for a kick)
• 1 tablespoon oil or butter (for the pan; I love using avocado oil for its high smoke point)
• ½ cup mayonnaise (for burger sauce; use vegan mayo if you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (or more if you like it sweeter)
• 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow works great)
• 1 tablespoon pickle relish (adds a nice tang)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for burger sauce)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (for burger sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want that pan sizzling when you add the patties!

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if you're using it. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. No need to overwork it; you want those juicy flavors to shine!

Shape the Patties

Now, divide the beef mixture into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball — think meatball size. Trust me, this step is crucial for that perfect smash burger effect!

Smash and Cook the Patties

Carefully place each ball in the hot skillet, giving them enough space to breathe. Grab a sturdy spatula and smash down on each ball until it’s about ½ inch thick. Cook these beauties for about 3-4 minutes until they develop a gorgeous brown crust. Flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Just before they finish cooking, sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top and let it melt beautifully. This is the moment when your kitchen starts smelling like heaven!

Warm the Tortillas

While those patties are cooking, grab another pan. Warm your small flour tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable. You want them to wrap around the burger like a cozy blanket!

Assemble the Tortilla Burgers

It’s time to bring everything together! Place one cheesy patty on a warm tortilla, and go wild with your favorite toppings. Think lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, or whatever tickles your fancy. The world is your oyster here!

Prepare the Burger Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, and paprika. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. Drizzle this creamy goodness over your assembled tortilla burger — it’s the finishing touch that ties everything together!

Serve

Serve your Tortilla Burgers immediately while they’re hot and melty. Trust me, you won’t want to wait!

Variations

• Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Swap out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Add diced jalapeños or chopped cilantro to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, like feta or mozzarella, for unique flavors.
• Top with grilled veggies like bell peppers and onions during the summer for a fresh twist.
• Use a cast-iron skillet to achieve that perfect sear for extra flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Tortilla Burgers hot off the skillet, garnished with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado. Pair them with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties and tortillas separately for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again!

Helpful Notes

• Using 80/20 ground beef ensures juicy patties, but you can opt for leaner meat if desired.
• Feel free to substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce option.
• For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the burger sauce or your toppings.
• These Tortilla Burgers are perfect for gluten-free diets if you use corn tortillas.
• Don’t hesitate to mix in finely chopped veggies like bell peppers into the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Tortilla Burgers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked patties and tortillas separately for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy!

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives like Beyond Meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Simply use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, and ensure all your seasonings and sauces are gluten-free. Enjoy without worry!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Tortilla Burgers as I am to share them! They’re a fun twist on classic burgers and tacos, and I just know they’ll become a staple in your home. Cooking is all about experimenting and finding joy in the process, so don’t worry if it’s not perfect the first time. Just remember to have fun, invite your loved ones to the table, and savor each delicious bite. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait for you to experience that “wow” moment when you take your first bite. Happy cooking!

Print