Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites! Imagine juicy burger patties tucked inside warm tortillas, topped with melted cheese, and maybe a sprinkle of your favorite toppings.
They’re perfect for a casual dinner or a weekend treat. I love how quick they are to whip up—perfect for those nights when you want something tasty without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but keep in mind it might be drier. For a healthier choice, consider ground turkey or chicken.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas add great flavor, but you can swap them for flour tortillas if that’s what you prefer. Just remember, flour tortillas will be a bit softer and chewier!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but I also love using American cheese for that gooey melt. If you’re feeling adventurous, pepper jack adds a nice kick! For dairy-free options, try cashew or almond-based cheeses.
Taco Sauce/Spicy Mayo: You can use store-bought sauces, but homemade is always a hit! Mix mayonnaise with a dash of hot sauce for an easy spicy mayo. For a tangy twist, salsa verde works great too!
How Do You Smash the Burger Patties Properly?
Smashing the patties might sound simple, but there’s a technique to get it just right! Start with a hot skillet—this helps achieve that delightful crust everyone loves.
- Heat up the skillet and add a small amount of cooking oil.
- Form 2-ounce balls of beef and place them on the skillet.
- Use a spatula to smash down on the ball firmly; aim for a thin patty for quick cooking.
- Season immediately with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
- Cook until crispy, flipping just once to keep that perfect sear.
Being patient while cooking helps create deliciously carmelized edges. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced pickles (dill or bread and butter)
- 1/2 cup taco sauce or spicy mayo
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. Get ready to enjoy some tasty Smash Burger Tacos in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by heating a little oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, take about 2 ounces of ground beef for each taco and form it into a loose ball. Carefully place the meat ball into the skillet and immediately press it down with a spatula to flatten it into a thin patty.
2. Cook the Patties:
Sprinkle salt and pepper on the patty to season it. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is crispy and caramelized. Flip the patty over using your spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, add a sprinkle of cheese on top so it can melt perfectly.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
While your patties are cooking, take a separate skillet and warm the corn tortillas over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable and slightly toasted. This will make them perfect for folding!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Once your patties and tortillas are ready, it’s time to put everything together! Place one smashed beef patty on each tortilla. Top with some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced pickles. Finish it off with a nice drizzle of taco sauce or spicy mayo for an extra kick!
5. Serve:
Now for the fun part—fold the tortillas around the tasty fillings and serve them immediately while they are still warm. Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos and the yummy flavors they bring to your table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just choose a blend with some fat, like 85/15, to keep your tacos juicy. The cooking time will be similar, so follow the same instructions for forming and cooking the patties.
How Do I Keep My Tortillas from Getting Soggy?
To prevent soggy tortillas, make sure to warm them just before assembly. You can even lightly fry them in a pan for a few seconds in a little oil to add a crispy layer. This will help them hold up better against the moisture from the toppings!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The cooked patties will last for about 2-3 days, while the tortillas and toppings should be used within a day or two. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave before assembling your tacos again to enjoy!
Can I Make the Beef Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to form the patties and wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
