Get ready for a fun twist on taco night with Smash Burger Tacos! These tasty treats combine juicy smashed burgers with crunchy taco shells for a delicious bite.
You can load them up with all your favorite toppings, like cheese, lettuce, and pickles. Honestly, they are so good, you might just want to keep making more! 😂
Making these tacos is super easy! Just cook the beef, smash it down, and stuff those shells. Serve them hot, and I promise everyone will want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you could use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s seasoned well, as they have less fat.
Tortillas: I love small corn tortillas for that authentic taco feel! However, flour tortillas are a great alternative if you want something softer. You could even use lettuce wraps for a gluten-free choice!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is classic for these tacos. If you’re looking for a different taste, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. Vegan cheese works too if you want a plant-based alternative.
Sauce Ingredients: The mayo-ketchup-mustard mix is a crowd-pleaser. For a twist, try adding some garlic powder or chipotle sauce for extra flavor. If you’re avoiding mayo, Greek yogurt can be a tasty substitute!
How Do I Smash the Burger Patties Perfectly?
Getting that perfect smash is crucial for texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a high heat: This ensures a good sear and locks in juices.
- Take a handful (about 2 ounces), and gently form it into a loose ball. Don’t overwork the meat!
- Place the ball in the skillet, and use a spatula to press down firmly. This maximizes surface area for browning.
- Season immediately with salt and pepper. Flip after 2-3 minutes once it’s browned; then add cheese to melt nicely.
Remember, the more you smash, the more delicious crust you get! Just don’t press too hard, or the juices escape.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Smash Burger Tacos recipe will take about 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the toppings and making the sauce, and about 15 minutes cooking the patties and warming the tortillas. Quick, fun, and perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Toppings:
In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce (if you are using it). Stir everything together until smooth and well blended. Set this tasty sauce aside; it’ll add amazing flavor to your tacos!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of cooking oil or butter. Take a handful of ground beef (about 2 ounces) and form it into a loose ball. Place the ball in the hot skillet and use a spatula to press it down into a flat patty. Make your patty nice and thin for that smash burger effect! Season it with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Patties:
Cook the beef patty for about 2-3 minutes on one side until it’s nicely browned. Then, carefully flip it over. After flipping, sprinkle a bit of cheddar cheese on top and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to get melty and delicious.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While your patties are cooking, take another skillet or pan and warm the tortillas over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they feel warm and pliable. This will make them easier to fold once we add the filling!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Once the patties are cooked and the tortillas are warm, it’s time to put everything together! Place one smashed burger patty onto each warm tortilla. Top each patty with a handful of shredded lettuce, some diced tomatoes, and a few slices of pickles. Drizzle your prepared sauce generously over the top for that fantastic flavor.
6. Serve:
Now, fold the tortillas over the delicious filling to create your tacos. Serve them warm and enjoy every tasty bite of your Smash Burger Tacos! They’re perfect for sharing, or for keeping all to yourself!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef, but keep in mind that it may result in a drier patty since fattier blends like 80/20 keep the meat juicy. If using lean meat, consider adding a splash of beef broth or a bit of olive oil while cooking to help maintain moisture.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best results, keep the patties and toppings separate until you’re ready to eat. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet and quickly heat the tortillas in a pan to keep them soft.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix the sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce) a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using, and it will enhance the flavors!
What Can I Substitute for the Tortillas?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are perfect. You can also use lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative or pita bread for a different flavor and texture. Just warm them up slightly before assembling for easy folding!
