Smash Burger Tacos mix the best of burgers and tacos in one tasty bite! Juicy burger patties are smashed onto a hot skillet, then tucked into soft tortillas with all the fixings.
These tacos are a hit at my house! They’re messy in the best way, and I love piling on toppings. Plus, who doesn’t like tacos that remind you of a burger? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is great for juicy results. Consider using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats may dry out more quickly.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for tacos. If you’re out, flour tortillas can work in a pinch! Whole wheat tortillas add another healthy twist.
Shredded Lettuce: It adds crunch and freshness. You can swap it for shredded cabbage or even spinach if you want something different.
Taco Seasoning: You can use a store-bought mix or make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. This way, you can control the spice level!
Mayonnaise: This sauce base may sound unusual, but it’s delicious! If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute—it adds creaminess with some tang.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on the Burger Patties?
Getting that perfect smash on your burger patties is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how you do it right:
- Start with warm beef at room temperature; it’ll smash better.
- Use a hot skillet and pour in the vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the beef balls in the skillet and press them down firmly with a spatula to create thin patties. The more surface area, the better the crust!
- Cook them without moving for about 3-4 minutes until browned nicely before flipping.
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
- Sliced pickles (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. In just half an hour, you can have delicious Smash Burger Tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smash Burgers:
Start by seasoning the ground beef. In a large bowl, add the beef along with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it all up gently. Now, divide the beef into 8 equal portions and roll each part into a ball. Simple enough!
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the beef balls in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Grab a spatula and press each ball down to create flat patties. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re nice and brown. Flip them over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they’re fully cooked through.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, grab another skillet or a griddle to warm the corn tortillas. Cook them on low heat for just a minute or two until they’re warm and pliable. This will make them easy to fold later!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce (if you like a little kick). Stir well until everything is nicely blended together for your tasty sauce!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a warm tortilla and place a smashed beef patty right in the center. Next, add some shredded lettuce and cheddar cheese. Drizzle on the sauce, and finish it off with sliced pickles on top.
6. Serve:
Your Smash Burger Tacos are ready to be devoured! Enjoy them warm right away, and feel free to add any other toppings or sides that you love.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, especially for leaner meats, to avoid drying them out.
How Do I Keep My Tortillas from Breaking?
To prevent your corn tortillas from breaking, be sure to warm them thoroughly until they are pliable. Cover the warmed tortillas with a clean kitchen towel or place them in a tortilla warmer to keep them warm and flexible until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld nicely, giving your tacos an even better taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store the components separately. Keep the beef, tortillas, and toppings in airtight containers in the fridge. The cooked beef will last about 3 days, while the tortillas can last up to a week. Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave before assembling your tacos again.
