Apparatus and method for constructing an espresso cartridge. A cartridge holder includes a generally horizontal holder rim for supporting an espresso cartridge rim of an espresso cartridge base. The espresso cartridge base may be inserted into the horizontal holder rim vertically or horizontally in an interference fit positioning the espresso cartridge rim on a top edge of the horizontal holder rim of the cartridge holder. A spacer is closeable over the horizontal holder rim and aligned with an espresso cartridge mouth of the espresso cartridge base creating a scoop having an additional untamped brewing material volume provided by the spacer. A tamper is pressed into the spacer to tamp the brewing material into the espresso cartridge base to provide tamped brewing material even with the cartridge rim. A plastic rim/foil center lid is snapped onto the filled and tamped espresso cartridge base to complete construction of the espresso cartridge.