If you're craving something that's got all the juicy goodness of a classic smash burger and the crispy charm of a crunchwrap, this Smash Burger Crunchwrap with Cheddar and Pickles is your dream come true. It's got everything: perfectly seared beef, melty cheddar, tangy pickles, creamy sauce, and that golden tortilla crunch that just hits different. Whether you're new to the smash burger recipe scene or a seasoned grill master, this one's gonna be your new go-to.
Smash Burger Crunchwrap with Cheddar and Pickles: A Crunchy, Juicy Twist on a Classic
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Cast-iron skillet Essential for that crusty sear. If you’re trying to follow a solid smash burger recipe cast iron technique, this is it.
Flat spatula or burger press To smash the patties evenly.
Large nonstick or cast iron pan For assembling and toasting the crunchwraps.
Cutting board and sharp knife For all your prep.
Mixing bowls For sauce and toppings.
For the Smash Burger Patties
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend recommended for juiciness
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika optional but great for that smoky note
- Butter for greasing the skillet
For the Crunchwrap Assembly
- 4 large flour tortillas burrito-sized
- 4 tostada shells or substitute with crispy tortilla chips if needed
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced dill pickles
For the Smash Burger Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp pickle juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Step 1: Make the Smash Burger Sauce
Mix together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside or refrigerate while prepping everything else. This easy smash burger sauce recipe is creamy, tangy, and brings everything together.
Step 2: Season the Beef
In a mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Form into four loosely packed balls (don’t overwork the meat).
Step 3: Smash Those Burgers
Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small pat of butter. Place a beef ball onto the hot skillet, and use a spatula or burger press to smash it flat. Let it sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until crispy edges form. Flip, place a slice of cheddar on top, and cook for 1 minute more until melty. Repeat for remaining patties.
This technique works on the grill too if you’re looking for a smash burger recipe grill style. Just use a griddle pan to keep things from falling through.
Step 4: Assemble the Wrap
Lay a large tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a spoonful of smash burger sauce across the center. Place a cheese-topped patty in the middle, then layer with pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions. Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top.
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly like a classic burrito-style wrap, making sure all the fillings are enclosed. If needed, secure the wrap with a toothpick to keep it sealed.
Step 5: Toast to Perfection
Heat a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place the wrap seam-side down and toast for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing slightly with a spatula, until golden brown and crisp. This gives the tortilla a satisfying crunch and seals in all the juicy fillings.
Pairings: What to Serve It With
- Crispy sweet potato fries: The sweetness pairs beautifully with the salty burger.
- Garlic dill pickles: Amplify the tang.
- A cold lager or pale ale: Perfect to cut through the richness.
- Creamy coleslaw: Adds a cool, fresh element.
If you’re going for a keto smash burger angle, serve the patty and toppings in a lettuce wrap or use a low-carb tortilla.
FAQs
1. What kind of ground beef should I use?
Go for 80/20 ground chuck. It strikes the perfect balance of fat and flavor for that juicy crust you want in any healthy smash burger or indulgent version.
2. Can I use turkey or chicken instead?
Absolutely! Just know you won’t get quite the same sear. Still tasty, though.
3. Are pickles necessary?
You could skip them, but they add essential tang and crunch. Bread & butter pickles are sweeter; dill pickles bring the zing.
4. Can I make these ahead?
You can prep the components and refrigerate, but assemble and cook the wrap fresh for best texture.
5. What tortillas work best?
Large, burrito-sized flour tortillas work best for wrapping. Want a fun twist? Try mini versions for smash burger tacos or smash burgers taco style.
6. Can I make these on the griddle?
Yes! In fact, smash burgers with tortillas on griddle is a killer method for outdoor cooking days. Just toast the wrap directly on the griddle for that golden shell.
7. What’s the best seasoning for smash burgers?
A simple combo of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika is hard to beat. But feel free to make your own signature smash burger seasoning blend.
