These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your favorite burger! Picture juicy beef patties tucked inside crispy taco shells, topped with cheese and your favorite fixings.
It’s like a party on your plate! You get the best of both worlds. I love piling on the toppings—sour cream, lettuce, and pickles make them pop! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 will work, just be mindful that they may be less juicy. For a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be used, though these meats may require different cooking times.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas add that authentic taco vibe. If you prefer or need a gluten-free option, these are perfect! Flour tortillas can work too, but keep in mind they’re a bit softer and larger.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts great and adds flavor. You can substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder taste or Pepper Jack for a little heat. Vegan cheese is also an option if you’re dairy-free.
Pickles: These add a nice crunch. If you’re not a fan of pickles, try diced jalapeños for some spice, or sliced avocados for creaminess instead.
Sauce: The sauce adds creaminess. You can also mix Greek yogurt with the same ingredients for a healthier twist. For a spicier kick, consider adding Sriracha or hot sauce to the mix!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crust on the Burger Patties?
Getting that perfect crust is key to great flavor in these tacos. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a hot skillet—cast iron works best for even heat distribution.
- When you smash the beef balls, apply firm pressure but don’t over-compress them; you want a loose patty.
- Leave them alone while they cook! Resist the urge to move them around for 2-3 minutes to get that crust.
- Covering the skillet after flipping helps the cheese melt while keeping the burgers moist.
Remember, the sizzling sound when it hits the pan means you’re on the right track!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup pickles, diced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
For The Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be assembling delicious tacos in no time, making it perfect for a quick meal or a fun taco night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
If you’re making the sauce, start by mixing the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir everything together well and set it aside. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, so you get the flavor just right!
2. Cook the Burger Patties:
Grab a cast-iron skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the surface. While it’s heating, divide your ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Shape each portion into a loose ball (don’t press it too hard!).
3. Smash the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls in the pan and smash each one down with a spatula to flatten them into patties. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick. Then, sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper to season.
4. Sear the Burgers:
Let the patties cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them, which helps develop a lovely crust. Flip the patties over, add a good amount of cheddar cheese on top of each, and cover the skillet for about 1 minute, or until the cheese melts beautifully.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, warm up your corn tortillas in a separate skillet or on a griddle until they’re soft and flexible. This makes them perfect for folding!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Place two burger patties on each warm tortilla. Top them off with shredded lettuce, diced onion, and chopped pickles if you’re using them. Drizzle the prepared sauce over everything to give it that extra flavor.
7. Serve:
Fold the taco in half and serve them immediately while they’re hot. You can keep any extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty smash burger tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that these options may yield a leaner result, so try to choose a blend that still retains some fat (like 85/15) to maintain moisture and flavor. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No problem! You can use flour tortillas as a substitute. They won’t have the same flavor profile, but they’ll still hold up nicely for the tacos. Just warm them as you would with corn tortillas to make them pliable and prevent tearing.
How Do I Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For the best results, keep the components separate to avoid sogginess: store the patties, toppings, and tortillas in different containers. Reheat the patties on a skillet or in the microwave before assembling again.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance! Mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good stir before serving to ensure everything is well combined again.
