Get ready for a fun twist with these Smash Burger Tacos! Juicy mini burgers are packed inside soft tortillas, topped with your favorite fixings. Yum!
These tacos are a hit at gatherings. Who can resist that tasty combo? I love to make them on casual nights; it’s quick, easy, and everyone gets to personalize their own! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend gives you the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, you can go for 85/15, but remember it might be a bit drier. For a healthier twist, ground turkey or chicken can work too, just watch the cooking time.
Flour Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are a great substitute, but they need to be warmed well to prevent cracking.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. You can switch it with American cheese for that classic burger taste, or even a pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Shredded Lettuce: Crisp iceberg lettuce is what I recommend for crunch. You can also use arugula or spinach if you’re after a different taste or want more nutrients.
Condiments: The mix of mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce is a creamy dream. For a zesty touch, add some hot sauce or swap out mayo for yogurt for a lower-calorie version.
How Do You Properly Smash the Patties for Perfect Texture?
Getting the smash just right is key to achieving that crispy exterior and juicy inside. Here’s how to do it without a hitch:
- Make sure the skillet or griddle is very hot. This ensures a good sear.
- When you place the meat on the skillet, press down firmly with a spatula. Ideally, aim to flatten to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Don’t worry if some beef spills out; that’s just extra flavor!
- Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a nice crust before flipping.
By following these steps, you’ll get that irresistible texture that makes Smash Burger Tacos a favorite!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for greasing the cooking surface)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the sauce and cooking the ingredients, and about 15 minutes assembling your tasty tacos. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. This will be your tasty sauce for the tacos. Set it aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions, shaping each into a ball that’s about 2 ounces. This will help ensure each patty is the same size.
3. Smash the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, lightly grease it with a bit of cooking oil. Carefully place each beef portion on the skillet. Using a spatula, smash each ball down into a thin patty. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until a nice crust forms on the bottom, then flip the patties over to cook the other side.
4. Add Cheese:
After flipping the patties, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one right away. Let the cheese melt while the patty cooks for another 2 minutes. Your burgers are nearly ready!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate pan, gently warm each flour tortilla over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping your delicious filling.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! On each warm tortilla, place a cheesy smash burger patty. Top it with shredded lettuce and sliced pickles, then drizzle some of the prepared sauce over everything.
7. Serve:
Carefully fold the tortillas over the filling to create your tacos. Serve them immediately while they’re still hot, and enjoy every bite of your delicious Original Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that lean meats may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as they can be less fatty than ground beef.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on the patties while they cook for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix the sauce ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This saves time on the day of cooking and allows the flavors to meld deliciously!
How to Store Leftover Tacos
To store any leftovers, place the assembled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The tortillas may become softer, but you can reheat them gently on a skillet to revive their texture!
