Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic tacos! They combine juicy burger patties with all your favorite taco toppings, all wrapped in warm tortillas.
Who wouldn’t love the best of both worlds? I like to pile mine high with cheese, lettuce, and a dollop of spicy sauce. It’s messy but oh-so-worth it! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the best flavor and juiciness, use 80/20 ground beef. If you’re looking to reduce fat, leaner beef like 90/10 works, but it may not be as juicy. You can also use turkey or plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for alternatives.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas bring authentic flavor to tacos. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to choose specifically labeled corn tortillas. Flour tortillas could be used, but they won’t have the same taste and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a nice melty texture. You can swap it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spiciness. Vegan cheese is a good alternative if you’re dairy-free.
Ketchup, Mayo, Mustard Sauce: This combination gives great flavor, but you can switch it up! Try adding sriracha for heat or swapping mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Customize based on your taste preferences!
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash Burger Patties?
Smashing the burger patties correctly is key to achieving that delicious crispy texture. Here are some steps to get it just right:
- Form meat into even balls, then heat your skillet until it’s very hot.
- Place the beef balls in the skillet and smash them down quickly with a spatula. This creates that signature crust!
- Cook on high heat for a shorter time to keep the beef juicy while developing a great sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary, as this helps them cook evenly.
Taking the time to smash them well will make a big difference in flavor and texture!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll start by making the smash burgers, then warm the tortillas, assemble everything, and whip up a tasty sauce. Ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smash Burger:
In a bowl, combine the ground beef with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it gently so you don’t overwork the meat. Next, form the mixture into evenly sized balls, about 2 ounces each. These will be your burger patties!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over high heat and add a little cooking oil. You want it nice and hot! Place the beef balls onto the skillet and immediately press down with a spatula to smash them into thin patties. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the underside is nicely browned. Flip the patties over and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While your patties are cooking, take the corn tortillas and warm them up. You can do this on another skillet or directly over an open flame for just a few seconds on each side. You want them to be soft and pliable, making assembly easier.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Once the burger patties are ready, take a warm tortilla and place a smashed burger patty right in the middle. Then, pile on the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and pickles on top. It’s getting tasty already!
5. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard to create a creamy drizzle. This sauce adds a wonderful flavor to your tacos! Drizzle it generously over the top of your assembled tacos.
6. Serve:
Serve the Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re hot and delicious! Feel free to garnish with additional crispy pickles or a sprinkle of extra cheese if you like. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require a little extra fat or moisture to keep the burgers juicy, so consider adding a splash of oil or some cheese to the meat mixture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the taco components separate. Place the cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tortillas, lettuce, and toppings should also be stored separately to maintain freshness. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave before assembling the tacos again.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the creamy sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before using to recombine the ingredients, as they may separate slightly while stored.
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or using a spicy ketchup or mustard in the sauce. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes or hot sauce on top of the assembled tacos for an extra kick!
