Fire up your grill this summer for an unforgettable culinary experience with our incredible Mexican Hamburgers! These aren’t just any burgers; they’re a vibrant explosion of bold, savory flavors, designed to elevate your backyard barbecue from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine a juicy, perfectly grilled patty infused with authentic Mexican spices, topped with melty cheese and an irresistible dollop of zesty Cowboy Caviar. This recipe promises a feast that’s both hearty and incredibly fresh, making it the ultimate addition to your summer grilling lineup, whether you’re celebrating Father’s Day, planning a festive cookout, or simply craving something spectacular for dinner.
The inspiration for these magnificent Mexican Cheeseburgers (often known as Tortas Hamburguesas in Mexico) came from an unexpected source: a local Mexican restaurant that truly mastered the art of fusion. Admittedly, a burger wouldn’t typically be my first choice on a Mexican menu, but curiosity led me to try their version, and I was instantly captivated. The rich, seasoned patty combined with vibrant, fresh toppings was a revelation. From that moment, I knew I had to recreate that magic at home, perfecting a recipe that captures the essence of those authentic flavors while making it accessible for any home cook.
Over time, I’ve experimented with various additions, from classic jarred salsa to fresh pico de gallo, each bringing its own charm. However, a game-changing ingredient recently entered the scene: Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar. Once I tasted its incredible blend of fresh and tangy elements, I immediately envisioned it as the crowning glory for these burgers. The result? A burger that’s not just packed with flavor, but also offers an exciting textural contrast and a refreshing zest that sets it apart. Trust me, incorporating this ingredient was a stroke of genius, and it will be for your burgers too!
The Ultimate Mexican Hamburgers
What truly makes these Mexican burgers sing is the carefully balanced blend of spices and textures within the patty itself. Drawing inspiration from classic taco night seasonings, we infuse lean ground beef with a warm, smoky, and aromatic combination of garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and a hint of paprika. This ensures every bite of the burger patty is bursting with that craveable Mexican-inspired flavor. To achieve the perfect texture and help bind everything together without relying on traditional breadcrumbs, we incorporate crushed corn tortilla chips – a brilliant touch that also keeps the recipe gluten-free and adds a subtle crunch. Finally, shredded Mexican cheese blend is mixed directly into the meat, ensuring pockets of gooey, savory cheese throughout, with extra reserved for melting beautifully over the top during the final minutes of grilling. These are substantial, satisfying burgers, meant to be enjoyed with two hands and plenty of napkins!
If you’re a fan of big, bold burgers that make a statement, don’t miss out on my other epic creations! Explore the savory depths of my Hangover Burger or savor the unique zest of my Bloody Mary Burger for more adventurous grilling ideas.
This post is proudly sponsored by Paisley Farm, but all opinions and my genuine love for their exceptional products are entirely my own.
Crafting the Perfect Mexican Style Hamburgers
Assembling these Mexican Style Hamburgers is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. We begin with perfectly toasted or grilled buns, providing a sturdy and flavorful foundation. Next, we pile on a vibrant array of fresh toppings: crisp lettuce for a refreshing crunch, juicy tomato slices for a burst of sweetness and acidity, a generous dollop of creamy guacamole, and, of course, a spoonful (or two!) of our star ingredient, Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory, smoky, creamy, and tangy notes, creating a multi-dimensional flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. This isn’t just a burger; it’s a culinary experience with a touch of flair and an abundance of unforgettable taste.
Spotlight on Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar: The Secret Ingredient
The true “secret weapon” that elevates these burgers from great to extraordinary is Paisley Farm’s Cowboy Caviar. This relatively new product is a revelation: a perfectly seasoned, ready-to-serve blend of beans, corn, peppers, and onions straight from the jar. It’s a vibrant mix, both visually appealing and bursting with flavor, offering just the right amount of tang and freshness to complement anything hot off the grill. Forget chopping and mixing; this jarred wonder saves precious time without compromising on taste or quality.
I integrate this versatile ingredient in two key ways to maximize its impact. First, a generous portion is folded directly into the burger mixture, ensuring that its delightful texture and zesty flavor permeate every bite of the patty. This infuses the burger with a subtle sweetness and an incredible “zip” that ties all the Mexican-inspired flavors together. Then, for serving, I spoon an extra dollop of Cowboy Caviar on top of each finished burger, adding a final layer of freshness, crunch, and a burst of color. Beyond burgers, Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar is incredibly versatile. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free, making it a fantastic option for a variety of diets. We adore it as a quick appetizer served with tortilla chips, and it’s equally superb when stirred into salads, soups, or used as a lively topping for sandwiches and tacos. It truly makes for the easiest side dish imaginable – just pop open the jar and serve!
Essential Ingredients for This Mexican Hamburger Recipe
Crafting the perfect Mexican Hamburger starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. While the full, printable recipe card with precise measurements and detailed instructions can be found at the bottom of this post, here’s an overview of the key components that come together to create this flavorful masterpiece:
- Lean Ground Beef: We recommend using 90% lean ground beef for a juicy yet not overly greasy patty. For those seeking alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes, though cooking temperatures and times may need slight adjustments to ensure they remain moist.
- Crushed Tortilla Chips: This ingenious binder not only helps hold the patties together but also infuses them with an authentic corn flavor and a subtle textural crunch. Corn tortilla chips ensure the recipe remains gluten-free, but flour-based chips would work if dietary restrictions aren’t a concern.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a crucial binding agent, ensuring the patties maintain their shape on the grill and don’t crumble.
- Aromatic Seasonings: A vibrant blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper forms the flavor base, reminiscent of your favorite taco seasoning. These spices contribute to the warm, earthy, and slightly smoky profile that defines these Mexican burgers.
- Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar: As highlighted, this is our star ingredient! Its colorful mix of beans, corn, peppers, and onions adds a delightful tang, texture, and a boost of protein, making the burgers even more satisfying. While salsa can be used in a pinch, the unique flavor and heartiness of the Cowboy Caviar truly elevate this dish.
- Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend: Divided for both mixing into the patty and melting on top, this blend provides rich, creamy pockets of cheese throughout the burger and a beautifully melted, gooey capstone.
- Fresh Cilantro: Roughly chopped, fresh cilantro introduces a bright, herbaceous note that complements the other Mexican flavors perfectly. Even if you’re typically not a cilantro fan, its role here is transformative, adding a fresh dimension that you might just love!
For serving, complete your Mexican Hamburger masterpiece with buttered and toasted or grilled hamburger buns. Offer a selection of fresh, vibrant toppings such as crisp chopped or shredded lettuce, ripe sliced tomatoes, creamy fresh guacamole or sliced avocado, and, for an extra burst of flavor, even more Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar. These elements not only add layers of taste but also provide contrasting textures that make every bite exciting.
How to Make Mexican Cheeseburgers with Cowboy Caviar: A Simple Guide
These generously sized, flavor-packed burgers, infused with the irresistible taste of Mexico, are surprisingly easy to prepare. From start to finish, you can have these delicious cheeseburgers ready for your hungry crew in approximately 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Step 1: Prepare the Patty Mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine your lean ground beef, eggs, crushed tortilla chips, the robust blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the fresh cilantro and about half of the shredded Mexican cheese blend, along with half of the Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar. Gently mix all ingredients until they are just combined. It’s important not to overmix, as this can lead to tough burgers. Stop as soon as everything is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Form the Patties. Divide the meat mixture into six equally sized balls. Gently press each ball down to form thick, uniform patties. A good tip is to make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps prevent the burgers from puffing up in the middle during grilling, ensuring they cook evenly and remain flat for toppings.
Step 3: Preheat and Grill. Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature, around 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Once hot, place the patties on the grates. Grill the burgers for a few minutes on one side until a nice sear develops, then flip them to cook the other side evenly. The total grilling time will depend on your desired doneness and the thickness of your patties, typically about 4-6 minutes per side for medium. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy. For medium doneness, aim for 140-145 degrees F (60-63 degrees C); for medium-well, 150-155 degrees F (66-68 degrees C); and for well-done, 160+ degrees F (71+ degrees C).
* For optimal food safety, the USDA recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C). This ensures the destruction of harmful bacteria. However, if you prefer your burgers cooked to a lower temperature, please use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure accuracy and to minimize any potential health risks.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese. During the last minute or two of grilling, top each burger with the remaining shredded Mexican cheese blend. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt perfectly, becoming gooey and bubbly over the hot patties. This creates a delicious, cheesy crown for your burger.
Step 5: Toast the Buns and Serve. While the cheese melts, quickly butter the insides of your burger buns and toast them on the grill or in a hot skillet until golden brown. This adds a fantastic texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy. Place a hot, cheesy burger patty on a toasted bun and generously load it with your desired fresh toppings, including crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, creamy guacamole, and a generous spoon of extra Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews!
Storing Leftover Mexican Hamburgers
Planning ahead or dealing with delicious leftovers is simple with these Mexican Hamburgers. Cooked patties will maintain their quality in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the microwave for a quick meal or on the stovetop over low heat to retain their texture. For optimal freshness and to prevent sogginess, always store any toppings, like lettuce, tomato, or extra Cowboy Caviar, separately.
These burgers are also freezer-friendly, making them excellent for meal prep. Wrap individual cooked patties tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. For reheating, thaw the patties overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them gently on the grill or stovetop until heated through.
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If this delicious Mexican Hamburger Recipe has captured your heart and taste buds, don’t let it slip away! Make sure to save it for future grilling inspiration. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you can easily find it whenever the craving strikes!
Tips & Tricks for the Best Mexican Burgers
- Handle with Care: To ensure your burgers remain wonderfully juicy and hold their shape on the grill, avoid overworking the meat mixture. Mix just until all ingredients are combined, then gently form your patties. For best results, chill the formed patties in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before grilling; this helps them firm up and prevents crumbling.
- Size Matters: This recipe yields six generous, thick patties, each weighing just over 1/3 pound – perfect for a substantial meal. If you prefer smaller portions or need to feed a larger crowd, you can easily divide the mixture into 12 smaller burgers. Remember to adjust your grilling time accordingly for thinner patties.
- Achieve Perfect Doneness: Always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure your burgers are cooked to a safe internal temperature. For ground beef, the USDA recommends a minimum of 160°F (71°C) to eliminate harmful bacteria. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the patty. For that irresistible melty cheese, add it during the last minute of cooking, closing the grill lid to create a steamy environment that helps it soften beautifully.
- Don’t Skip the Toasted Buns: A small step that makes a huge difference! Buttering the insides of your burger buns and toasting them directly on the grill or in a hot skillet adds a delightful crispness and rich flavor. This crucial step also creates a barrier that prevents the buns from becoming soggy under all those delicious, juicy toppings.
- Avoid Pressing Patties: While it might be tempting to press down on burgers with your spatula during grilling, resist the urge! This squeezes out all the flavorful juices, resulting in dry, less enjoyable burgers. Let the grill do its work.
Creative Substitutions to Make it Your Own
One of the joys of cooking is the freedom to adapt recipes to suit your personal preferences, dietary needs, or what you simply have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make these Mexican Hamburgers truly your own!
- Binder Alternatives: If you don’t have corn tortilla chips readily available, feel free to substitute with crushed tortilla strips or even seasoned corn chips like Fritos for a similar texture and flavor boost. If gluten isn’t a concern, a small amount of breadcrumbs or even crushed plain crackers could also work as a binder.
- Meat Variations: While lean ground beef is our top choice for its flavor and texture, you can certainly swap it for ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option. Remember that poultry burgers generally require cooking to a higher internal temperature (165°F or 74°C) and can dry out more quickly, so be mindful not to overcook them.
- Cheese Choices: The convenience of a pre-shredded Mexican cheese blend is wonderful, but don’t limit yourself! Sliced cheddar, Monterey Jack, or zesty pepper jack would all melt beautifully and complement the Mexican flavors. For the freshest taste, consider grating your own cheese from a block.
- The Unskippable Cowboy Caviar: While substitutions are generally encouraged, I genuinely don’t recommend skipping the Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar in this recipe. Its unique blend of vibrant flavors, perfect texture, and ready-to-serve convenience truly makes these burgers special. It provides a distinct tangy and fresh counterpoint that is difficult to replicate with other ingredients. Whether it’s mixed into the patty, piled on top, or served on the side, it adds an irreplaceable element that transforms the entire dish.
Discovering Paisley Farm Foods
For generations, Paisley Farm has been a name synonymous with quality and flavor on American tables. Since its inception in 1945 by J.W. Paisley, the company has upheld a steadfast commitment to delivering farm-fresh, flavorful vegetable and bean products. Their philosophy centers on crafting convenient, high-quality foods using only the freshest ingredients and developing exciting flavor combinations that truly stand out. This dedication to authenticity has been passed down through four generations, ensuring that every product from Paisley Farm continues to evoke the same delighted “Mmm” response from today’s families as it did decades ago. Their diverse range of offerings seamlessly transforms everyday appetizers, side dishes, and dips into vibrant, delicious culinary experiences.
Explore More Paisley Farm Products
Paisley Farm boasts an impressive array of delicious products that are ready to enjoy “straight from the jar,” offering unparalleled convenience and flavor. Beyond the sensational Cowboy Caviar featured in this recipe, I’ve had the pleasure of incorporating their products into countless other dishes. Favorites include their classic Five Bean Salad, and both their Hot Brussels Sprouts and Dilled Brussels Sprouts, which add a fantastic zing to any meal. You’ll also find their delightfully tangy Sweet Pickled Beets and another exciting new addition, the Balsamic Beet & Onion Salad. Whether you’re seeking a super-quick side dish that’s ready in an instant, or you’re aiming to infuse serious flavor into your elaborate recipes, Paisley Farm offers a versatile selection that deserves a spot in your pantry. Be sure to explore their full product line!
More Recipes to Love and Explore
If your journey here today was inspired by a love for unique and delicious burgers, then you’re in for a treat! Don’t miss out on that epic Pastrami Burger with Kraut, pictured above – it’s a flavor adventure you won’t soon forget. My collection boasts a wide variety of burger recipes to satisfy every craving. You simply can’t beat the savory goodness of my Dunker Burger, the classic appeal of the Reuben Burger, the rich umami of the Mushroom Swiss Burger, or the fresh, bold flavors of my Salmon Burger with BLT Slaw. Be sure to check them all out before you depart!
For another fantastic way to utilize Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar, I recently crafted these incredibly tasty Chicken and Cowboy Caviar Taquitos. They are a definite crowd-pleaser! So, when you’re stocking up on a jar for your Mexican Hamburgers, consider grabbing an extra one (or two!) to give these taquitos a try. You won’t regret it – they’re seriously delicious.
You can conveniently find Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar and explore their full range of products on their website, as well as at major retailers like Meijer and Publix stores.
To discover more recipes, learn about their innovative products, and find store locations near you, visit the official Paisley Farm Foods website. Stay connected and inspired by following Paisley Farm on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for a year-round supply of delicious recipes and culinary ideas.
These Mexican Cheeseburgers truly embody everything I adore about summer cooking: they’re straightforward to prepare, bursting with incredible flavor, and perfectly suited for satisfying a hungry crowd. They strike an ideal balance, feeling wonderfully festive without any fuss. The inclusion of Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar adds an unexpected, delightful twist that guarantees everyone will be coming back for more. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a special occasion like Father’s Day or the Fourth of July, or simply enjoying a laid-back sunny Saturday afternoon, this recipe is destined to become a beloved staple on your summer menu, time and time again. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this outstanding, flavor-packed burger!
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Print Recipe
Mexican Hamburgers
Equipment
- Char-Broil 4-Burner Cart Style Liquid Propane Gas Grill
- Weber Spirit S-315 Liquid Propane Gas Grill, Stainless Steel
- Grill Set Heavy Duty BBQ Accessories – BBQ Tool Set 4pc Grill Accessories
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup crushed corn tortilla chips
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar
- 1 (7 ounce) shredded Mexican Cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 6 burger buns, insides buttered and toasted or grilled
- chopped or shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, fresh guacamole and additional cowboy caviar.
Instructions
- In a large bowl mix together ground beef, egg, crushed tortilla chips, spices, cilantro, shredded cheese and Paisley Farm Cowboy Caviar until combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the mixture into 6 equally sized balls of meat. Press them down into thick patties that are the same size.
- Preheat grill to 400 degrees F. Grill burgers for a few minutes on one side then flip them to evenly grill the other side. Check the internal temperature. Medium is 140-145 degrees F, Medium Well is 150-155 degrees F, and Well Done burgers will have an internal temperature of 160+.
* For safety, the USDA recommends cooking ground beef to at least 160°F. This ensures the destruction of harmful bacteria. However, if you prefer your burgers cooked to a lower temperature, use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy and safety. - For the last minute or two of grilling, top with remaining shredded Mexican cheese and close the lid to melt.
- Butter the insides of your burger buns and toast them in the skillet or on the grill. Place a burger on the bun and serve with desired toppings.
Notes
Storing Leftover Mexican Hamburgers
Leftover burgers will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If you’re storing toppings or extra Cowboy Caviar, keep those separate to preserve texture and freshness.
These burgers also freeze well—wrap individual cooked patties tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Mexican Burgers
For juicy burgers that hold their shape on the grill, don’t overwork the meat. Mix just until everything is combined, then form your patties and let them chill in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes before grilling.
These burgers are big—each one comes in just over 1/3 pound, making six generous patties. If you prefer a smaller portion or are feeding a larger group, you can easily make 12 smaller burgers instead, or cut the recipe in half. Just adjust the grill time accordingly.
When grilling, always cook your burgers to a safe internal temperature. For ground beef, that means 160°F. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the patty to check for doneness. Add cheese during the last minute of cooking and close the lid to get it nice and melty.
Butter and toast the insides of the buns directly on the grill for flavor and texture—it makes a big difference in holding everything together once those toppings are piled on.