These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your regular tacos! They combine juicy burger patties with all your favorite taco toppings, wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Yum!
I love how each bite is a flavor explosion! Plus, you can customize them with cheese, salsa, or whatever you like. It’s the best of both worlds, and who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the juiciest burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 ground beef works too, but the patties might be drier. For a different flavor, turkey or plant-based ground meat can also do the trick!
Tortillas: You can choose between corn or flour tortillas based on your preference. Corn tortillas are a bit more authentic, while flour tortillas have a softer texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for specialty corn tortillas or use lettuce wraps instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great taste, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor. Vegan cheese can also be a good substitute if you want a dairy-free option.
Pickles: Dill pickles offer a nice tang, but you can swap them for sweet pickles or even jalapeños for some heat. For a healthier twist, try diced cucumbers with a splash of vinegar.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Patties?
Cooking patties is a crucial step for these tacos. You want them golden on the outside and juicy inside, so here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t overwork the meat when forming patties; they should be loose. This keeps them tender.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the patties, so they get a good sear.
- Smash the patties down with a spatula for that perfect burger shape and to get more surface area that caramelizes nicely.
- Cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on one side allows the edges to brown before flipping. You’ll get that delicious crust!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. It’s a quick and fun dish that you can whip up in no time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until everything is combined. This will be your tasty sauce! Set it aside for now.
2. Form the Patties:
Take your ground beef and divide it into smaller portions, making about 4 to 6 patties. Don’t compact them too tightly—keep them loose to stay juicy. Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil once the pan is hot. Place the beef patties in the pan. Using a spatula, smash each one down to make a thin burger. This will help them cook evenly and get that nice crispy edge!
4. Add Cheese:
Let the patties cook for about 3-4 minutes until the edges turn brown. Carefully flip each patty and place cheese slices on top right after flipping. Cook for another minute, or until the cheese is nice and melted. Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In the same skillet, it’s time to warm the tortillas. Do this one at a time, heating each for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fill and fold!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now comes the fun part! Take a warmed tortilla and place a smashed burger patty in the center. Top it with shredded lettuce, diced onions, sliced pickles, and a drizzle of your prepared sauce. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!
7. Serve:
Your Smash Burger Tacos are now ready to eat! Enjoy them warm and feel free to add any extra toppings or sauces you love. Dive in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well, but keep in mind that it’s leaner than beef, so the texture might be a bit different. You can add a little extra oil or even mix in some bacon or beef broth to enhance the flavor and moisture levels.
How Do I Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the assembled tacos separate from the toppings to prevent them from getting soggy. Reheat the patties in a skillet and warm the tortillas again before reassembling!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the patties ahead of time and shape them without cooking. Place parchment paper between each patty and store them in a sealed bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight before frying!
What Other Toppings Can I Use for These Tacos?
The options are endless! You can add sliced jalapeños for some heat, diced tomatoes, avocado, or even a dollop of sour cream. Feel free to get creative and customize the toppings to suit your taste!
