These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on both burgers and tacos! Picture juicy beef patties smashed into crispy taco shells, topped with cheese, lettuce, and your favorite sauces.
Who knew tacos could be so hearty? It’s like a fiesta for your taste buds! I love serving them with extra salsa on the side for dipping—perfect for taco night or anytime you’re craving something indulgent!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is your main ingredient for taco shells. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose mix. Just note that texture might be slightly different.
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for juiciness and flavor. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but add some oil to maintain moisture!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar makes a great melting cheese, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. Cheese is always a great personal touch!
Toppings: I love fresh toppings! For diced onions, red onions add a nice crunch and color. You can switch to avocado for creaminess if you prefer. And if you skip the pickles, try jalapeños for a spicy twist!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Taco Shells?
Making the taco shells requires attention so they turn out just right. The freshness of homemade shells is unbeatable! Here’s how to ensure they are crispy:
- Mix the dough until it’s smooth but don’t over-knead it.
- Rest the dough for at least 15 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out!
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying—test with a small piece of dough. It should sizzle when added.
- Fry each shell approximately 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels for crispness.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Taco Shells:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For The Smash Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup pickles (optional)
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes making the taco shells, 10 minutes cooking the smash burgers, and about 10 minutes assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and fun meal to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Taco Shells:
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Gradually pour in the water while stirring until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until it’s smooth and soft. Divide the dough into small balls—each one should be roughly the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball out into a flat circle, aiming for about 6 inches in diameter. Next, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each tortilla for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re golden and slightly crispy. Once done, place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
2. Prepare the Smash Burgers:
While the taco shells are cooling, preheat a large skillet or griddle on medium-high heat. Take the ground beef and divide it into equal portions, around 4 ounces each. Loosely form these into balls. When the skillet is hot, place the balls on it, then immediately use a spatula to smash them flat into patties, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they develop a nice crust. Flip the patties over, add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top, and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts deliciously.
3. Assemble the Tacos:
Grab your taco shells and place one or two of the smash burgers inside each shell. Layer them with shredded lettuce, diced onions, and pickles if you’re using them. Finally, drizzle your burger sauce over the top for that flavorful kick!
4. Serve:
Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos warm and fresh! For an extra delicious experience, serve with additional burger sauce on the side for dipping. Yum!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour for the Taco Shells?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that it may slightly change the texture, making the shells a bit denser. You might need to adjust the water quantity slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Taco Shells?
To store leftover taco shells, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll last for up to 2 months. To reheat, just warm them in a skillet or microwave.
Can I Make the Smash Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the smash burgers in advance! Cook them as directed, then let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding more cheese if desired!
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a substitute for ground beef, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as leaner meats may cook faster, and keep an eye on seasoning for flavor!
