These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic tacos! Picture juicy beef patties topped with cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas—yum!
Making these is a blast! I love how quick they are—perfect for busy weeknights. Just smash the burgers, pile on your favorites, and enjoy taco night with a smile! 🌮😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A blend of 80/20 grass-fed beef is my go-to for juicy flavor. If you want a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but the burgers may be less juicy. For a different taste, try ground turkey or chicken.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas offer a soft texture, but corn tortillas can be a great gluten-free option. Just remember to warm them before using to make them pliable.
Cheese: American cheese melts perfectly, but you can swap it for cheddar, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese. Just make sure it melts well for that creamy goodness.
Seasonings: The combination of garlic powder and smoked paprika adds flavor. Feel free to mix things up with chili powder or taco seasoning if you have it on hand!
How Do I Smash Burgers for the Perfect Texture?
Smashing burgers is key for a nice crust and juicy flavor. Here’s how to nail that technique:
- Use a heavy skillet or cast iron pan, preheat it until hot to get a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches to give each burger space to cook.
- Press down firmly, but not too hard; aim for about 1/4-inch thick. Let them cook undisturbed to form a crust.
- Patience is essential. Cook for 2 minutes before flipping to get those crispy edges. Enjoy those delicious burger tacos! 🍔🌮
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 4 small flour tortillas or taco-sized tortillas
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 4 slices American cheese (optional)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 10-15 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have these delicious smash burger tacos ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
Start by making the special sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined, and set it aside.
2. Form the Meat Balls:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions. Loosely roll each portion into a ball—don’t pack them too tight!
3. Heat the Skillet:
With a heavy skillet or cast iron pan, place it over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil or butter, allowing it to heat up until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
4. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Place 2 meatballs in the skillet. Quickly press down on each with a spatula until they flatten to about 1/4-inch thick. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the edges are browned and crispy.
5. Flip and Add Cheese:
Gently flip each patty over, and if you’re using cheese, place a slice on top of each patty right away. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the second batch of patties is cooking, warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until they’re soft and pliable. This helps them wrap around the filling easily.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Lay two smash burgers on each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, chopped onions, and a generous drizzle of the special sauce you prepared earlier.
8. Serve:
Fold the tacos over and serve them immediately. If you have any extra special sauce, serve that on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delightful smash burger tacos!
These tacos offer a delicious mix of flavors and textures in every bite. Enjoy this easy and tasty meal! 🌮🥳
FAQ for Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use leaner ground beef like 90/10 if you prefer, but keep in mind that the tacos might be less juicy. Adding a little extra seasoning can help enhance the flavor if you’re going lean!
What If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute American cheese with cheddar, pepper jack, or any cheese that melts well. Just make sure to place the cheese on the patties right after flipping them so it gets nice and gooey.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the burgers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and enjoy them again in fresh tortillas!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The special sauce can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before using. This can also save you time on taco night!
