Smash Burger Tacos bring the best of both worlds—juicy burgers and tasty tacos! You get a crispy tortilla filled with melted cheese and flavorful beef all in one bite.
These tacos are super fun to eat, and you’ll love the combination of textures and tastes. I often make them for friends, and they disappear in seconds. Who can resist that? 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken, but it might dry out a bit, so add a little oil to keep it moist.
Corn Tortillas: Useful for their slight sweetness and foldability. If you prefer flour tortillas for ease of handling, you can switch them out, but they won’t add the same texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds sharpness. If you want something creamier, try Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend. Vegan cheese can substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for your sauce. If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt. It adds a nice tang, too. For a kick, try sriracha mixed in!
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash Burger Patty?
The secret to a great smash burger is all in the technique. The goal is to get that lovely crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Make sure your skillet is hot! Preheat it over medium-high heat before adding the oil.
- When forming your beef into balls, don’t pack it too tightly—just shape it gently.
- Once the beef hits the pan, press down hard with a spatula to flatten it out. This helps form that delicious crust.
- Season the beef right before cooking for maximum flavor—don’t be shy with the salt and pepper!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pickle slices for topping (optional)
- Cooking oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes preparing the sauce, around 10 minutes cooking the patties and warming the tortillas, and a few minutes assembling everything before serving. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Sauce:
Start by making your special sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, and a dash of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir and set it aside for later. This sauce will add a lot of flavor to your tacos!
2. Cook the Beef:
Now, grab a skillet or griddle and heat it up over medium-high heat. Pour in a drizzle of cooking oil to keep things from sticking. Wait a moment for the oil to heat up and then you’re ready for the beef!
3. Form and Smash the Patties:
Take about 2 ounces of ground beef and roll it into a ball in your hands. Place it onto the hot skillet. With a spatula, press down firmly to flatten the ball into a thin patty. Season it with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until you see a nice golden crust, then flip it over and cook for another minute until it’s cooked through.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, grab another pan and lightly warm the corn tortillas. Just heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and easy to fold. This step makes sure they are perfect for wrapping around your burger patty!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
It’s time to put everything together! Place a cooked smash burger patty on each warm tortilla. Top it off with a generous amount of shredded lettuce and cheddar cheese. This is looking good already!
6. Add Sauce and Toppings:
Drizzle the delicious sauce you prepared earlier over the fillings on each taco. If you like pickles, now’s the time to add some slices for that extra crunch and flavor!
7. Serve Immediately:
All done! Serve your Smash Burger Tacos right away while the beef is warm and the toppings are fresh. Grab a taco and enjoy the tasty flavors!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the quality, keep the sauce separate and assemble the tacos fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time! Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate slightly while stored.
What Can I Use Instead of Corn Tortillas?
If you prefer, you can use flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just keep in mind that the cooking method may vary slightly; warm them up gently to avoid tearing.
