Ground Beef Gorditas are the ultimate comfort food, combining the delightful flavors of spiced beef and melty cheese, all encased in a fluffy, golden shell. These handheld delights are perfect for casual family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even a quick lunch. The simplicity of the recipe means you can whip them up without a fuss, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners. With just a few ingredients, you can create mouthwatering gorditas that everyone will love.

With a mix of masa harina for that perfect dough, and a filling that brings together ground beef and spices, you’ll be serving up a dish that marries flavor and convenience. You can personalize them however you like with various toppings from your favorite salsa to fresh veggies, allowing you to cater to individual tastes. What’s more, these gorditas not only taste great but also come together quickly, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into why you’ll love these delicious Ground Beef Gorditas!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Gorditas

Fluffy Texture: Each gordita is soft and pillowy on the inside, providing a perfect contrast to the savory filling.
Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
Customizable: Top with your favorites, such as cheese, lettuce, salsa, or sour cream, to make them your own.
Family-Style Eating: Serve them warm and let everyone build their own, creating a fun dining experience.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start making these delicious Ground Beef Gorditas, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. First, make sure you have ample counter space for kneading the masa harina and shaping the gorditas. A clean and organized workstation allows you to work efficiently without distractions. A mixing bowl for combining your dough ingredients is essential, as well as a skillet for cooking the beef and the gorditas.

Additionally, you might want to have a rolling pin on hand for flattening the dough and a cooking thermometer to ensure your beef is cooked to perfection. Don’t forget a spatula to flip the gorditas and a cutting board for chopping toppings. Having these tools ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

2 cups masa harina
1½ cups warm water
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp oil
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 small tomato, diced
Salsa (optional for serving)
Sour cream (optional for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creating the masa harina dough that forms the base of your gorditas. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of masa harina with ½ tsp of salt. Gradually pour in 1½ cups of warm water and add 1 tbsp of oil. Use your hands to knead the mixture until it’s soft and pliable. The dough should not be sticky and should easily form into a ball. Once you have your dough prepared, divide it into 6 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten them gently into thick discs, ensuring they are uniform in thickness for even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Gorditas

Next, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. As the skillet heats up, carefully place each gordita onto the skillet. Cook them for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they become puffed and golden brown. The goal is to achieve a nice light brown color while keeping the inside tender. Once cooked, transfer the gorditas to a plate and keep them warm by covering them with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Sauté the Beef

In the same or a different skillet, add 1 tbsp of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in your 1 lb of ground beef. As the beef cooks, break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned all over, making sure to drain any excess fat if necessary, for a healthier filling. With the beef browned, it’s time to season! Add 1 tsp each of chili powder, ground cumin, and paprika, followed by ½ tsp of garlic powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well, allowing the spices to coat the beef, and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Gorditas

Now comes the fun part! Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each gordita partway open to create a pocket. Be gentle so as not to tear through completely; this is where your delicious filling will go. Start by adding a generous scoop of the seasoned ground beef into each gordita pocket, followed by a handful of shredded cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes. You can be as generous as you like with the toppings; this is your creation!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your Ground Beef Gorditas are now ready to be served! Enjoy them while they’re warm, with optional salsa and sour cream on the side for dipping. The delightful warmth of the gorditas combined with the savory filling is sure to become your family’s new favorite meal!

Variations

Protein: Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even sautéed veggies for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers and onions to the beef mixture for extra flavor and color.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or chipotle for a smokier flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

If your masa dough feels too dry, add tiny amounts of water until the desired texture is achieved.
For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the gorditas over direct flame for a few seconds on each side.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the gorditas with a side of Mexican rice or beans for a complete meal.
Include fresh salsa, guacamole, or jalapeños as additional toppings for added flavor.

Tips

Always keep your cooked gorditas warm by stacking and covering them with a kitchen towel.
If making ahead, store uncooked dough balls in the refrigerator for a few hours before using.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
Protein: 24 grams
Sodium: Varies based on added salt and condiments

FAQs

Can I freeze gorditas?

Yes! Cooked gorditas can be frozen. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar or a Mexican blend works wonderfully. Feel free to use whatever melting cheese you prefer.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

What other fillings can I use?

Get creative! Try shredded pork, beans and cheese, or a mix of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Gorditas are not only a fantastic recipe for dinner but also an exciting way to explore flavors and textures in a handheld meal. The soft, fluffy dough paired with a savory filling makes every bite a delicious experience. Plus, the versatility in toppings means you can tailor each gordita to fit your mood or preference. Whether you’re enjoying them on a busy weeknight or serving them at a gathering, they are sure to impress everyone at the table. I invite you to give them a try, don’t hesitate to share your creations in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together!