These Smash Burger Tacos bring the best of both worlds together! Picture juicy, flavorful burger meat perfectly tucked inside warm tortillas, ready to satisfy your cravings.
They’re super fun to make! I love topping mine with cheese, lettuce, and a dollop of sauce. It’s like a burger party in a taco. Who can say no to that? 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 beef for a juicy burger. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works fine but may lack some flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just remember lean meat may require additional seasoning!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas add an authentic flavor. However, if you’re not a fan of corn, feel free to use flour tortillas instead. Just note that they might be a bit more pliable, making them easier to fold for the tacos.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its flavor, Monterey Jack is a great substitute for a milder taste. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, just make sure it melts well.
Special Sauce: This sauce is a classic twist that makes these tacos special. If you’re short on ingredients, a simple mix of mayonnaise and ketchup can still be tasty. For a spicy kick, add some sriracha!
How Do I Get My Burger Patties Crispy?
Getting a good crispy edge on your burger patties is key! First, make sure your skillet is really hot before adding the beef. This helps achieve that nice sear. Also, when you smash the ball down, don’t be gentle—press firmly! Here are the steps:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat.
- Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Smash the beef ball down flat immediately after placing it in the skillet.
- Wait for 2-3 minutes until the edges look crispy before flipping.
These steps help lock in the juices while crafting that satisfying crunch on the outside! Enjoy crispy tacos that everyone will love!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup special sauce (mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and pickles)
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have delicious Smash Burger Tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a bowl, season the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Use your hands to mix the seasoning well into the beef. Next, divide the beef into 8 equal portions and roll them into balls. This is what will become your tasty burger patties!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Take a cast iron skillet or a heavy frying pan and place it over medium-high heat. Let it heat up until it’s nice and hot—this will give your patties a wonderful crispy edge.
3. Cook the Burger Balls:
Once the skillet is ready, add a little oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the beef balls onto the skillet. Here’s the fun part! Using a spatula or a burger press, smash the balls down flat into patties. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes. You want the edges to get crispy and browned—trust us, it’s worth the wait!
4. Add Cheese:
Now it’s time to flip those patties! When they’re nice and brown, give them a flip and immediately place some shredded cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burgers are cooking, grab another pan or your grill to warm the tortillas. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side, until they’re warm and flexible. This will make them easier to fold into tacos.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
You’re almost there! Place one cheeseburger patty onto each warmed tortilla. Top it with shredded lettuce, diced onions, and a good drizzle of your special sauce. Feel free to add any optional toppings you love, like sliced jalapeños or diced tomatoes!
7. Serve:
Finally, fold the tortillas over to create your delicious tacos. Serve them immediately while they’re hot, and don’t forget to set out some extra special sauce for dipping. Enjoy your tasty Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats if you prefer a healthier or vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking times as leaner meats may cook faster!
What Can I Substitute for the Special Sauce?
If you don’t have the ingredients for the special sauce, a simple mix of mayonnaise and ketchup works great too! For a more tangy flavor, add a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce. You can also try using your favorite store-bought burger or taco sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Leftover Smash Burger Tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the components separate to maintain the taco’s crispiness. Reheat the patties in a skillet and warm the tortillas before assembling again.
Can I Prepare the Beef Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can season and form the beef into balls a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, and when you’re ready to cook, simply remove them and follow the rest of the recipe as directed. This will save you time on taco night!
