These smash burger tacos are a fun twist on your favorite burger! With juicy beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings all wrapped in a soft taco shell, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Every bite is bursting with flavor! I love how easy they are to make. Just smash the patties, stack on your toppings, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the juiciest flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean turkey or chicken also works well, just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas give the best texture, but you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. They’re softer and might be easier to handle for some people.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor, but feel free to swap it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick!
Special Sauce: The special sauce gives a great taste. If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, or add some sriracha for heat and extra flavor.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Smash Burger Patty?
Cooking the patty properly is a key step in this recipe. The goal is to achieve a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the skillet until it’s very hot—this helps with browning.
- Form the beef into loose balls without pressing them too hard; this keeps them tender.
- Smash the ball down with a spatula immediately after placing it on the skillet. This gives you that lovely crispy edges.
- Don’t flip too early! Wait until you see a crust developing, about 3-4 minutes, then add cheese and cook further until melted.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for the best flavor)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup special sauce (see below)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the special sauce and cooking the beef patties, and about 5 minutes warming the tortillas and assembling your tacos. Just a bit of cooking and assembly, and then you’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
Start by mixing your special sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Set it aside while you cook the burgers.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the vegetable oil and let it heat up for about a minute.
3. Cook the Patties:
Now it’s time for the star ingredient! Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, each about a quarter of a pound. Gently roll them into balls, being careful not to overwork the meat. Place one beef ball into the skillet, and using a spatula, press it down firmly to create a patty. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until a nice crust forms on the bottom.
4. Add Cheese:
Once the patty is crusty, flip it over. Quickly add a slice of cheddar cheese on top so it melts as the burger finishes cooking. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the burger is fully cooked. Repeat this for the remaining patties.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burgers are cooking, heat another skillet over medium heat to warm up the corn tortillas. Cook each tortilla for about 1 minute on each side until they’re soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and enjoy!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Time to put it all together! Take a warm tortilla and place a cooked burger patty in the center. Top it off with a handful of shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of diced onions, and a generous drizzle of your special sauce. It’s going to be delicious!
7. Serve:
Serve your tacos while they’re warm! You can put any extra special sauce on the side for dipping. Now it’s time to dig in and savor your amazing Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute for ground beef. Keep in mind that they tend to be leaner, so you might want to add a splash of oil or a tablespoon of butter to keep them moist while cooking.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The special sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients might separate over time.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover assembled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, separate the taco components and warm them individually in the microwave or on the stovetop. This helps keep the tortillas from becoming soggy.
What Other Toppings Can I Use for These Tacos?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sliced jalapeños, avocado, salsa, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor. Experimenting with toppings can enhance your taco experience and cater to your personal taste!
