These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on the classic burger! Just think about juicy beef patties wrapped in warm tortillas, loaded with cheese, and your favorite toppings.
You’ll want to have these for dinner every night—seriously! I love making them for friends; they always say it’s the best of both worlds. Who can resist a burger in a taco? 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for these tacos. The fat helps keep the burgers juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or plant-based ground meat can work too.
Tortillas: You can use small corn or flour tortillas based on your preference. Corn adds a nice flavor, while flour is softer. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas that are certified as such!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic for these burgers, but you could swap it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit more kick. I often mix cheeses for a creamier taste.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream and can replace mayonnaise too. It’s great for extra creaminess without as many calories!
How Do I Make the Perfect Smash Burger Pattys?
Creating the perfect smash burger patty is all about technique. You want a nice sear for flavor and juiciness, so keep this in mind!
- Preheat your skillet to medium-high heat—this is key for that perfect sear. Add cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Form the beef into balls, but don’t overwork them; this keeps them tender. Place on the hot skillet and smash down immediately with a spatula to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing to get a good flavor seeping in.
- Cook until browned on one side (2-3 mins), then flip, add cheese, and cook for another minute. This method locks in juices and gives that nice caramelization!
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Pickles, sliced (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the burgers, plus a few extra minutes for assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Skillet Ready:
Start by heating your skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, lightly coat the bottom with a little cooking oil. This will help your burgers cook nicely without sticking.
2. Make the Burger Patties:
While your skillet is heating up, take the ground beef and form it into small balls, about 2 ounces each. Doing this in advance makes it easier when you’re ready to cook!
3. Smash and Season the Burgers:
Place the beef balls onto the hot skillet. Now, take a spatula and press down on each ball to flatten it into a thin patty. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top to season them.
4. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes until they get a nice brown sear on the bottom. Then, flip them over and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cook for another minute, or until the cheese is melted and gooey!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burgers are finishing up, warm the tortillas. You can do this on another skillet or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until they’re soft and pliable.
6. Assemble Your Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a warm tortilla and add a smashed burger patty in the center. Top it with shredded lettuce and a dollop of sour cream. Then, drizzle on some mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard for that classic burger flavor.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Finish off your tacos by adding sliced pickles on top, along with any other toppings you like. Feel free to get creative!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Smash Burger Tacos are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them immediately while they’re hot and delicious. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that they may dry out a bit more quickly than beef, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or some finely chopped onion to keep the mixture moist.
Can I Make the Tacos Spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the patties before cooking. You can also mix some cayenne pepper or chili powder into the ground meat for an extra layer of heat!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover tacos or patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through, then reheat the tortillas separately to keep them soft.
What Are Some Good Toppings for These Tacos?
Feel free to get creative! Some great toppings include diced tomatoes, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or even a spicy salsa. Experimenting with different toppings can give your tacos a unique twist each time!
