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Cowboy Butter Smashed Beef Tortilla Melts with Spicy Dipping Sauce Recipe

Cowboy Butter Smashed Beef Tortilla Melts with Spicy Dipping Sauce

These tortilla melts combine juicy beef, rich cowboy butter, and a spicy dipping sauce for a flavorful meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chill Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Beef
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef 80/20 blend works best
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cowboy Butter
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 3 cloves garlic finely grated or minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon flaky salt or to taste
Tortilla Melts
  • 10-12 small flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar or American cheese
  • Butter or oil for cooking
Spicy Dipping Sauce
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce adjust to spice preference
  • 1 tablespoon pickle juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne
Optional Toppings
  • Diced onions
  • Pickles
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Drizzle of hot honey
  • Extra cowboy butter for brushing

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly seasoned.
  2. Divide into 10–12 small balls — each one will become the center of your tortilla melt.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, grated garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne, oregano, and flaky salt.
  4. Set aside — this will be used to baste the tortillas for that buttery, herby flavor.
  5. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a touch of oil or butter.
  6. Lay down a tortilla and place one meatball right in the center.
  7. Using a sturdy spatula or burger press, smash the beef flat against the tortilla so it spreads evenly.
  8. Cook until the bottom of the tortilla starts to crisp and the beef is browned — about 2–3 minutes.
  9. Flip the tortilla so the beef side is down and immediately top with cheese.
  10. Let it cook for another minute or so until the beef is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
  11. Brush the edges of the tortilla with cowboy butter as it cooks for a golden, flavorful crust.
  12. Remove from heat and repeat for the remaining tortillas.
  13. Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, pickle juice, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne until creamy and smooth.
  14. Chill until ready to serve.
  15. Brush each tortilla melt again with warm cowboy butter right before serving.
  16. Stack or slice them and arrange on a platter.
  17. Top with pickles, onions, jalapeños, or lettuce if desired.
  18. Serve with the spicy dipping sauce on the side — or drizzle a little on top if you’re feeling bold.

Notes

These Cowboy Butter Smashed Beef Tortilla Melts are perfect for a hearty meal with a kick. Adjust the spice level to your liking and have fun with the toppings. The cowboy butter adds a rich, herby flavor that makes each bite irresistible.