If you’re looking for a BBQ recipe that’s guaranteed to get people talking, these Layered Tortilla Kebab Skewers are it! They combine juicy, well-seasoned mince with soft tortillas, all layered together, skewered and grilled until beautifully crisp on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside.
The real hero is the sticky Honey Garlic Butter that’s brushed over the skewers as they cook. It caramelises over the heat, creating an irresistible sweet, savoury and smoky finish.
Whether you’re firing up the smoker, charcoal BBQ or even a gas grill, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
Kebab Layers
- 9 flour tortillas
- 500g pork mince
- 250g beef mince
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 capsicum, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
Honey Garlic Butter
- 110g butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pinch of chilli flakes (optional)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- Pinch of salt
Method
1. Prepare the tortillas
Trim the rounded edges from each tortilla to create neat squares. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help prevent them from burning.
2. Make the meat mixture
In a large bowl, combine the pork mince, beef mince, onion, capsicum, parsley, garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, ginger, black pepper and salt. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and slightly sticky.
3. Build the stack
Spread an even layer of the mince mixture over one tortilla. Place another tortilla on top and repeat until all tortillas have been used.
Gently press down on the finished stack to compact the layers.
4. Slice and skewer
Cut the stack into three long strips.
Stand each strip on its side so the layers are vertical. Push 3–4 skewers evenly through each strip, then cut between the skewers to create individual kebab skewers.
5. Make the Honey Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan, combine the butter, lemon zest, garlic, chilli flakes, honey and salt.
Heat gently until the butter has melted and the mixture begins to bubble. Remove from the heat.
6. Cook
Preheat your smoker or BBQ to a medium heat.
Place the skewers onto the grill and cook for approximately 12–15 minutes, turning regularly and brushing generously with the Honey Garlic Butter throughout the cook.
The tortillas should become lightly crisp and golden while the mince cooks through and develops plenty of colour.
Serving Suggestions
These kebabs are fantastic served with:
- Garlic yoghurt or tzatziki
- Fresh tomato, cucumber and onion salad
- Warm flatbreads
- Pickled vegetables
- Chips or seasoned wedges
- Rice or couscous
Sam’s Kitchen Tips
- Don’t spread the mince too thickly between each tortilla—thin, even layers cook much more evenly.
- Pressing the tortilla stack together before slicing helps keep everything firmly in place.
- The Honey Garlic Butter is what takes these to the next level, so keep basting throughout the cook.
- While charcoal gives the best flavour, these cook beautifully on a gas BBQ as well.
Recipe Inspiration
This recipe was inspired by the wonderful Layered Tortilla Kebab Skewers recipe from Home Cooking Adventure. I’ve adjusted the quantities and method slightly to suit my own cooking style and ingredients while keeping the same delicious concept. If you’d like to see the original version, you can find it here:
Home Cooking Adventure – Layered Tortilla Kebab Skewers: Original Recipe