These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites! Juicy beef patties are smashed and cooked until crispy, then tucked into soft tortillas with your favorite toppings.
I love how easy they are to whip up for a quick weeknight dinner! Add some cheese, lettuce, and salsa for a complete meal that’s finger-licking good. You can’t go wrong!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend of ground beef is great for tasty burgers. If you want a leaner option, use 90/10, but remember it might be a bit drier. Ground turkey or chicken can also work, though they won’t have the same richness.
Corn Tortillas: Fresh corn tortillas bring a lot of flavor and texture. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas are an acceptable substitute, just a bit softer and thicker. For a gluten-free option, look for corn or rice tortillas.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic choice for burgers. If you’re feeling adventurous, try Monterey Jack for a milder taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Vegan cheese can also be used here for a dairy-free version.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. You can also use spicy mayo by mixing in some sriracha for an extra zing!
How Can You Smash Burgers Perfectly?
Smashing burgers is all about technique! The goal is to create a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s what to do:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high for the best sear. A hot pan is key!
- Divide the beef into equal portions. Don’t handle it too much—just enough to form a loose ball.
- Place the beef ball on the skillet and use a sturdy spatula to press it down firmly. You want a thin patty for that crispy edge.
- Season the patty right after smashing it for maximum flavor!
- Flip it quickly to keep the juices inside, and right before it’s done, cover it with cheese to let it melt beautifully.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, giving a total time of 25 minutes. You’ll mix together the sauce, cook the burgers, warm the tortillas, and assemble everything for a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. Mix well! Taste your sauce, and add salt and pepper to make it just right for you. Set this tasty sauce aside as it will be the perfect topping for your tacos.
2. Cook the Burgers:
Grab a large skillet or griddle and place it on the stove over medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil to the skillet. Once it’s hot, divide your ground beef into 4 equal portions. Using a spatula or burger press, smash each portion down firmly onto the skillet to form thin patties. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to make them flavorful!
3. Add Cheese:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottoms turn a nice brown color. Then, flip the patties over. Immediately spoon shredded cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked through. Yummy!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burgers are cooking, take another skillet and warm the corn tortillas over medium heat. This should only take a couple of minutes. You want them soft and easy to fold.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Take each warm tortilla and place one cheesy burger patty in the center. Top it with a handful of shredded lettuce and diced onions. Lastly, drizzle your tasty sauce over the top!
6. Serve:
Serve your Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re warm and delicious! Feel free to add any extra toppings or sauces you love on the side. Enjoy every bite of your creative twist on a classic burger!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well, though you might need to adjust the cooking time. For a richer flavor, you could also use ground pork or a mix of beef and pork. Just ensure the cooking time is adequate for the meat you choose.
How to Keep Tortillas from Breaking?
To prevent breaking, be sure to warm the tortillas until they are flexible. If they are still cracking, try covering them with a damp paper towel while warming, or store them in a tortilla warmer after heating to keep them soft until serving.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Certainly! The sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using since some ingredients may settle.
What Are Some Good Toppings for My Smash Burger Tacos?
Besides the basics, you can get creative! Consider adding sliced jalapeños for heat, diced tomatoes for freshness, or avocado slices for creaminess. A sprinkle of cilantro or a splash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors!
