These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites! Juicy beef patties are smashed and cooked until crispy, then tucked into soft tortillas with all your favorite toppings.
Who knew tacos could be so meaty and delicious? I love loading them up with cheese, lettuce, and a dollop of salsa. It’s a tasty explosion that’s perfect for taco night! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they’ll be leaner and may require extra seasoning.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for these tacos, but if you can’t find them, flour tortillas work as a softer alternative. Just be sure to warm them up for the best flavor and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a great sharp flavor. Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you want a creamier texture or a little kick. Pre-shredded cheese helps save time, but I prefer to shred my own for better melt.
Burger Sauce: Thousand Island dressing is a classic choice, but you could use ranch or a homemade mix with mayo, ketchup, and relish for a personalized twist. Try adding some sriracha for a spicy kick!
How Do I Smash the Burger Patties for Perfect Texture?
Smashing the patties is a key technique for achieving a good crust and texture. It helps the burger cook quickly and get nice browning, which adds flavor. Here are some steps to make it easier:
- Roll the beef into balls and space them out on your skillet.
- Once on the skillet, use a sturdy spatula or a burger press—press firmly, but not too hard, to about ½ inch thick.
- Season them generously with salt and pepper right after smashing. This enhances flavor right from the start!
- Cook on high enough heat to get those nice brown edges, and flip only once for the best results.
Don’t forget to cover the pan while the cheese melts; that really helps it get gooey and delicious!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
The Taco Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
For Serving:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (e.g., Thousand Island dressing or similar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious meal. Just gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy these tasty Smash Burger Tacos in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Patties:
Start by preheating a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. While it heats up, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions, about 2 ounces each. Roll each portion into a little ball. This will help to create perfectly sized patties.
2. Cook the Patties:
Once your skillet is hot, carefully place the meatballs onto it, giving them space. Using a spatula, press down on each ball to smash it into a thin patty. Season the patties with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until you see a nice crust forming. Then, flip the patties over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’re cooked through.
3. Add Cheese:
When the patties are almost fully cooked, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each one. To help the cheese melt nicely, cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or so.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the cheese melts, take another skillet and heat a little oil over medium heat. Warm the corn tortillas in this skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they are nice and pliable. This step makes them easier to fill and eat!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now that the cheese is melted on the patties, it’s time to assemble your tacos! Place one cheeseburger patty onto each warm tortilla. Then top with your favorite toppings: shredded lettuce, diced onions, and a nice drizzle of burger sauce. Feel free to get creative!
6. Serve:
Serve your Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re hot and fresh. You can add extra lettuce and burger sauce on the side for dipping if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Blend of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! While an 80/20 blend gives the best flavor and juiciness, you can use leaner ground beef or even ground turkey. Just be aware that leaner meats may result in drier patties, so consider adding a small amount of olive oil or another fat to help keep them moist.
How Do I Keep My Tortillas From Getting Soggy?
To keep your corn tortillas crispy, warm them in a skillet right before serving. You can also place them in a single layer in a preheated oven (at about 200°F/93°C) while you prepare the patties. This will help maintain their warmth without getting soggy.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can form the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage. If freezing, separate each patty with parchment paper and place them in an airtight container. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge before cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat. Reheat the tortillas separately to keep them fresh before assembling again. Enjoy them as a fun remake of your original tacos!
