Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites: burgers and tacos! Picture juicy beef patties, perfectly smashed for that crispy edge, tucked inside warm tortillas.
It’s hard not to smile when these tasty bites are on the table. I love adding my favorite toppings like cheese, avocado, and salsa. Perfect for a quick dinner that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can substitute with lean ground turkey or chicken, but this may alter the flavor slightly.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for these tacos. If you’re gluten-free, stick with corn tortillas. Alternatively, flour tortillas work well if you prefer something softer.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great flavor. You could swap it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you want a little spice. Also, crumbled feta is a nice twist!
Pickles: Dill pickles are classic. If you’re not a fan, sliced jalapeños or even avocado can provide a tasty alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smashed Burger Patty?
Creating the perfect patty is all about the technique! When you form the patties, don’t compact the beef too much; you want them loose. The smashing process is key to getting those lovely crispy edges.
- Use a hot skillet to get a nice sear.
- Form the beef into balls before placing them in the skillet.
- Quickly smash each ball down with a flat spatula, then season well with salt and pepper.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get that brown crust before flipping.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
Other Essentials:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare, with about 15 minutes of cooking time. You’ll quickly mix the sauce, cook the beef, warm the tortillas, and then assemble your delicious Smash Burger Tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by making the special sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. Once combined, set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a little cooking oil. Now, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Form each portion into a loose ball, then place one ball in the hot skillet. Using a flat spatula, press down firmly to smash the ball and form a thin patty. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the patty is nicely browned, then flip it over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the patty from the skillet and repeat with the remaining beef portions.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate skillet, take your corn tortillas and lightly toast them on both sides until they are warm and pliable. To keep them warm, you can wrap them in a clean kitchen towel.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put your tacos together! Place one smashed burger patty in each warm tortilla. Top the patty with shredded cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced pickles.
5. Add the Sauce:
Drizzle the sauce you prepared earlier over the toppings in each taco. Yum!
6. Serve:
Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos warm! You can serve with any extra sauce on the side for those who want a little more flavor. Happy eating!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as lean meats may cook faster.
How Do I Keep the Tortillas from Becoming Soggy?
To prevent soggy tortillas, ensure they’re warmed just enough to be pliable without getting too moist. You can also place a layer of shredded lettuce as a barrier under the burger patty, which helps absorb some moisture!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate a bit over time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store the taco components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The beef and sauce can last for about 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the beef in a skillet and assemble the tacos fresh for the best taste!
