What Defines an XL Tortilla?
When you see 'XL' or 'extra large' on a tortilla package, it almost always refers to a flour tortilla with a diameter between 12 and 14 inches. This is significantly larger than standard options like soft taco or fajita shells, which are often 6 to 8 inches. The size is specifically designed to accommodate a large volume of ingredients without splitting or leaking, making it the perfect canvas for a restaurant-style, fully-loaded burrito.
Comparing XL Tortillas to Other Common Sizes
To fully appreciate the scale of an XL tortilla, it helps to see it compared to other sizes you might find in the grocery store. Tortilla diameters are not perfectly standardized across all brands, but these ranges provide a helpful guide.
| Tortilla Size | Typical Diameter (in inches) | Best For... |
|---|---|---|
| Street Taco | 4–5 | Small, traditional tacos |
| Fajita | 6–6.5 | Fajitas, small tacos, small breakfast items |
| Soft Taco | 7.5–8.5 | Standard-sized tacos, small wraps |
| Burrito | 9.5–10.5 | Medium burritos, quesadillas |
| XL Burrito | 12–14 | Large, loaded burritos, dinner-plate quesadillas |
As the table shows, the jump from a standard burrito size to an XL tortilla is substantial, providing an extra two to three inches of surface area. This extra space allows for more generous fillings and a more robust, securely-wrapped final product.
How to Use XL Tortillas for Epic Meals
An XL tortilla opens up a world of culinary possibilities beyond the standard fare. Its size and strength make it versatile for many dishes:
- Massive Burritos: This is the most common use. You can pile on rice, beans, meat, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream without worrying about the tortilla tearing. The large size ensures you can wrap it up tightly for a portable and filling meal.
- Crispy Quesadillas: Use a single XL tortilla, fold it in half, and fill it with cheese, chicken, and peppers. Because of its size, you can create a huge, satisfying quesadilla that's perfect for sharing or for a hearty meal. You can also use two XL tortillas to create a massive, two-sided quesadilla.
- Homemade Crunchwraps: For a fun, custom version of a fast-food favorite, an XL tortilla is essential. It's large enough to fold around a filled, crunchy tostada shell, creating the unique hexagonal shape that holds everything together.
- Creative Pizza Bases: When baked, the XL tortilla becomes a thin, crispy crust for a quick and easy personal pizza. It's a great low-carb alternative to traditional pizza dough.
- Layered Enchiladas: Laying out XL tortillas in a baking dish can create large, layered enchilada bakes rather than rolling individual smaller ones.
The Importance of Pliability
One key characteristic of a quality XL flour tortilla is its pliability. Due to the high gluten content in flour tortillas, they can be made much larger than their corn counterparts without falling apart. This flexibility is crucial when rolling a fully stuffed burrito, preventing cracks and leaks that would ruin your meal. To ensure maximum pliability, it's always recommended to warm your tortillas before use. A quick zap in the microwave or a few seconds on a hot, dry skillet will soften them and make them much easier to work with.
Choosing and Storing XL Tortillas
- Check the Label: Brands like Mission Foods, Dempster's, and Mr. Tortilla explicitly label their extra large offerings, often with diameters listed on the package. If you're unsure, look for phrases like "XL Burrito" or "Grande".
- Look in Multiple Aisles: While most will be in the bread or tortilla aisle, don't forget to check refrigerated or specialty sections, especially at larger grocery stores or international markets, where you might find 14-inch or even larger options.
- Store Properly: Store your tortillas in a cool, dry place and refrigerate after opening to preserve freshness. This will help prevent molding and keep them fresh for longer.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the question of how big are XL tortillas is answered by their name—they are extra-large, typically ranging from 12 to 14 inches in diameter. This significant size is what makes them the go-to choice for creating substantial, restaurant-quality burritos and other generously-sized meals at home. Their ample surface area and sturdy structure allow for an incredible amount of filling, ensuring a satisfying meal that won't fall apart. By understanding the different sizes available, you can choose the perfect tortilla for your next delicious meal, whether it's a giant burrito or a party-sized quesadilla.
Key Takeaways
- XL Tortillas are Large: The typical diameter of an XL tortilla is between 12 and 14 inches, significantly larger than standard sizes.
- Perfect for Burritos: Their large size is specifically designed to handle copious amounts of fillings, making them ideal for massive, fully-loaded burritos without tearing.
- Versatile for Recipes: XL tortillas are also great for making big quesadillas, homemade crunchwraps, personal pizzas, and layered enchiladas.
- Warming Improves Pliability: Always warm XL flour tortillas before use to make them more flexible and easier to wrap without cracking.
- Check Brand Variations: While generally 12-14 inches, specific sizing can vary by brand. Always check the package label for the most accurate information.
- Look for 'Grande' or 'Burrito': When shopping, search for terms like "XL Burrito," "Extra Large," or "Burrito Grande" to find these larger tortillas.
