These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your burger in a taco shell! Juicy beef, melty cheese, and your favorite toppings come together for a quick meal.
Who can say no to burgers and tacos? I love how simple they are to make—just smash the beef, cook it up, and fill those taco shells! Perfect for busy nights! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for a juicy burger. If you prefer a leaner option, go for 85/15, but the flavor might take a hit. If you’re plant-based, you can use textured vegetable protein or a veggie burger patty!
Tortillas: Both flour and corn tortillas work well. I like flour for their softness, but corn adds a nice texture. You can also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version!
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully, but cheddar or Monterey Jack are great alternatives that add more flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a nut-based cheese or skip it entirely.
Burger Sauce: This sauce adds the perfect kick! You can swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use a vegan mayo if you prefer plant-based. Feel free to get creative with spices to match your taste!
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on My Burger Patties?
Smashing the burger patties correctly is important for achieving that crispy edge and juicy center. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a hot skillet or griddle for best results. This helps sear the meat quickly.
- Roll the beef into loose balls and place them on the skillet. Don’t crowd the pan.
- When smashing, press down firmly but evenly to create a thick patty (about 1/4 inch). This helps lock in flavor.
- Let them cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until they get nice and brown before flipping. This ensures a good crust!
Try this technique, and you’ll have deliciously crisp patties every time!
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 6 slices American cheese (optional, can substitute with cheddar or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (see below for easy sauce recipe)
- Butter or oil for toasting tortillas
Burger Sauce Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp pickle juice or finely chopped pickles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy nights when you’re craving something delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, pickle juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, then set the sauce aside.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large cast-iron skillet or griddle on medium-high heat until it’s really hot. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, delicious crust on your smashed patties.
3. Shape the Beef:
Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a loose ball—this will help when it’s time to smash!
4. Smash the Patties:
Put the beef balls onto the hot skillet. With a heavy spatula or burger press, smash each ball down to about 1/4 inch thick. Season the patties with salt and pepper.
5. Cook Until Crispy:
Let the patties cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes, until the edges are nice and brown and crispy. Then, flip the patties over.
6. Add Cheese:
As soon as you flip, place a slice of cheese on each patty. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through.
7. Toast the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly butter the tortillas and toast them in a separate pan or on the griddle until warm and slightly crispy but still pliable.
8. Assemble the Tacos:
Take two smashed burger patties and place them inside each softened tortilla. Add a good handful of shredded lettuce and some chopped onion for crunch.
9. Drizzle with Sauce:
Generously drizzle the prepared burger sauce over the fillings in each taco. Feel free to add more, because who doesn’t love sauce?
10. Fold and Serve:
Fold the tortilla over and serve your Smash Burger Tacos immediately. Enjoy them with extra burger sauce on the side for dipping!
These Smash Burger Tacos are a delightful mix of flavors and textures—all in a fun taco format. Enjoy your meal! 🌮🍔
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef, like an 85/15 blend. Just keep in mind that it may be less juicy than the recommended 80/20 blend, which provides more flavor and moisture.
What Can I Substitute for the Burger Sauce?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use store-bought burger sauce, ranch dressing, or even BBQ sauce for a different flavor! For a lighter option, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs and spices can work well too.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Just be careful not to overcook!
Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want to add some heat, you can mix in hot sauce with the burger sauce, use pepper jack cheese, or add sliced jalapeños to the taco filling. Customize it to your spice preference!
