These Smash Burger Tacos combine two crowd favorites: juicy burgers and tasty tacos! You’ll enjoy crispy taco shells stuffed with seasoned beef, cheese, and all your favorite toppings.
It’s a fun twist for taco night! I love adding extra pickles for an extra crunch. Try serving them with a side of fries for the ultimate indulgence! 🍔🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal for juicy smash burgers. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90/10, but beware it might be less juicy. Plant-based ground beef is an excellent alternative for a meatless option.
Tortillas: You can use either corn or flour tortillas, depending on your taste. Corn has a nice texture, while flour is softer. You could also swap in lettuce wraps if you’re looking for a low-carb choice.
Cheddar Cheese: While shredded cheddar is great for flavor, you can switch it for Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some spice, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Special Sauce: This sauce is easy to play with! Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter touch or use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a different twist. Don’t forget the mustard for that tang!
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on My Burger Patties?
The smashing technique is what makes these burgers special. While cooking, don’t be afraid to use some pressure, but be quick so the patty doesn’t overcook. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet until very hot with a bit of oil.
- Form your beef into balls, then place one in the skillet.
- Using a spatula, press down firmly until the patty is thin and flat. This helps create that delightful crispy crust.
- Season immediately with salt and pepper—seasoning both sides enhances the flavor.
Remember, the key to perfecting the smash is the initial heat and pressure, plus a little patience while it cooks. Enjoy your taco creation!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the sauce and veggies, and 20 minutes cooking and assembling the tacos. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
Start by making your special sauce. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of mayo, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 1 teaspoon of mustard. Stir well until it’s all combined, then set it aside for later. This sauce adds a tasty kick to your tacos!
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil to coat the bottom of the pan. When the skillet is hot, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions, about 2 ounces each. Place one portion in the skillet and smash it down with a spatula to make a thin burger. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until a nice crust forms. Then flip the patty over, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese on top, and cook for another minute until the cheese melts. Take it out of the skillet and repeat with the remaining beef portions.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
In the same skillet, warm the tortillas briefly. Just place them in the skillet for a few seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. This will make your tacos easier to fold and eat!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a warm tortilla and place one cooked beef patty on it. Top with shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of chopped onion, and drizzle some of your special sauce on top. Yum!
5. Serve:
Serve your Smash Burger Tacos immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh! You can add extra special sauce on the side for dipping. Get your friends or family together and enjoy this fun and tasty twist on a burger!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken! Just keep in mind that these lean options might require a little more seasoning and could cook faster, so adjust your cooking time and seasoning accordingly to keep them flavorful and juicy.
What If I Don’t Have Special Sauce Ingredients?
No problem! If you’re missing one of the ingredients for the special sauce, you can easily substitute with what you have on hand. For a simple version, mix mayo with some hot sauce or salsa for a zesty kick. Alternatively, a store-bought burger sauce could work as a quick replacement!
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to warm the patties in a skillet and the tortillas separately to maintain their texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the tortillas from getting too soggy!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can form the patties and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to freeze them, wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking!
