These Original Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your favorite burger! With juicy beef patties, cheese, and fresh toppings all wrapped in a warm tortilla, they’re super tasty.
I love making them for friends—they’re so easy to share, and everyone can pile on their favorite toppings. Who doesn’t love a taco that tastes like a burger? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers with a bit of fat. If you prefer leaner meat, you might use 90/10, but remember, it can be drier. Ground turkey or chicken works too for a lighter option.
Tortillas: I love using flour tortillas for their soft, chewy texture. Corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option and will add a nice flavor. You can also try larger tortillas for bigger tacos!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to switch to American for a classic melt or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Vegan cheese options can work well too for a dairy-free version.
Sauce: The sauce is customizable! Instead of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Add some hot sauce for an extra kick or even diced jalapeños for crunch.
How Do You Perfectly Smash and Cook the Patties?
Smashing the patties is key to achieving that crispy edge and juicy center. Just remember not to overwork your beef when shaping. Once the skillet is hot, here’s what to do:
- Heat your skillet until it’s sizzling hot (medium-high heat).
- Drop in one patty, and then smash it with a spatula. This creates a larger surface area for crispy edges.
- Don’t forget to season right after smashing! It helps bring out the flavor while cooking.
- Cook just until the edges are crisped and browned—about 2-3 minutes is ideal.
Flipping with care is important, especially with melted cheese on top, so a wide spatula helps! Enjoy the delicious results!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 8 small tortillas (flour or corn)
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the sauce and ingredients, and another 15 minutes cooking the patties and assembling the tacos. Get ready for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and a little salt and pepper. Stir everything well until it’s combined, then set the sauce aside for later use.
2. Shape the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions, which should be about 2 ounces each. Roll each piece into a ball and lightly flatten it to form a patty shape. Remember not to overwork the meat, as you want juicy burgers!
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat up a skillet or griddle on medium-high heat and add a little cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, add your beef patties one by one. Grab a spatula and gently smash each patty down to create a thin, crispy layer. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
4. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cook for an additional minute, letting the cheese melt perfectly over the burger.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In another pan, warm the tortillas until they are soft and easy to handle. You can lightly grill them for a bit of extra flavor if you like.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! On each warmed tortilla, place a cheesy smash burger patty, then add some shredded lettuce and slices of pickles. Drizzle your prepared sauce on top for extra flavor.
7. Serve:
Fold the tortillas over the filling and serve your tacos immediately while they’re still hot. Enjoy your delicious Smash Burger Tacos with family or friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef, but keep in mind that turkey tends to be leaner. To avoid a dry taco, consider using a blend with higher fat, like ground turkey thighs, or add a bit of oil to keep the patties moist.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for a cheese alternative, you can use pepper jack for a spicy kick or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy. Just melt it on the patties in the same way for a similar texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patties and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over low heat, and don’t forget to re-warm the tortillas for the best taste!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, or avocado. Just ensure any fresh veggies are added right before serving to maintain their crunch!
