Get ready for a fun twist on your favorite burger! These Smash Burger Tacos pack juicy, flavorful beef patties into crispy taco shells, topped with all your favorite fixings.
It’s like having a barbecue and a taco night all in one! I love to load mine up with cheese and guac—yum! Perfect for a quick dinner or a relaxed weekend treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try 90/10 beef, but mix in a bit of olive oil to retain moisture. For a lighter choice, ground turkey or chicken can work well, too.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas give that authentic street taco feel. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas are a great substitute, but they might make the tacos a bit softer. Just choose what you enjoy most!
Shredded Lettuce: Crisp lettuce adds freshness. Feel free to swap with shredded cabbage for extra crunch or even arugula for a peppery bite. Personal note: I love a mix of both!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully, but you could use Monterey Jack for a creamier finish. If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan cheese that’s made for melting.
Mayonnaise: This base makes a lovely sauce. You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or make it vegan by using avocado instead. The tangy flavor of ranch dressing can also add a nice kick!
How Do I Get the Perfect “Smash” on My Burgers?
The key to a successful smash burger lies in the technique. You want a crusty exterior that holds onto all the flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet or griddle is preheated to medium-high heat. This is crucial for that great sear.
- Form your meat balls and place one into the hot skillet. Use a spatula to press down firmly, but don’t press too hard—just enough to flatten.
- Leave it alone for a few minutes. When you see edges turning brown, it’s time to flip!
- After flipping, add your cheese immediately. This helps it melt nicely while the patty finishes cooking.
These tips will help you achieve that delicious crust that makes smash burgers so satisfying!
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 lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp pickle juice
- 1 handful of pickles, sliced
Additional Ingredients:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ground Beef:
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with salt and pepper according to your taste. Take portions of the beef and roll them into equal-sized balls, about 2-3 ounces each. Set them aside for now.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little bit of oil to the skillet and let it heat up until it’s nice and hot. You can test the heat by flicking a drop of water into the pan; it should sizzle!
3. Cook the Burger Patties:
Once the skillet is ready, place one beef ball in the skillet. Using a spatula, flatten it slightly to create the “smash” effect. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until it forms a crispy crust. Next, flip the patty and place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
4. Make the Sauce:
While the patties are cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice. Stir it well and taste to adjust any seasonings as needed. Simple and delicious!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
Warm the corn tortillas in another pan or in the microwave until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fill and fold.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start with a warm tortilla, then add a cheesy smashed burger patty on top. Pile on a handful of shredded lettuce, a generous dollop of your sauce, and finish off with sliced pickles.
7. Enjoy Your Smash Burger Tacos!
Serve your delicious Smash Burger Tacos immediately and enjoy every bite! They are perfect for a fun meal any day of the week!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it tends to be leaner than ground beef, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil or butter while cooking to keep the patties moist and flavorful.
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicy?
If you love spice, try adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture before cooking. You can also mix some Sriracha or cayenne pepper into the sauce for an added kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Taco Ingredients?
Store any leftover burger patties, sauce, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The cooked patties can stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the patties in a skillet and warm the tortillas before assembling!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance! Simply mix everything together and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making it even tastier when you assemble your tacos!
