These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are the best mix of flavors! Juicy burger patties are smashed onto a warm tortilla with cheese, all ready for your favorite toppings.
Who knew tacos could be so much fun? I love loading mine up with lettuce, tomatoes, and a dollop of salsa. Perfect for taco night or any day you want a tasty twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90/10, but it might be less juicy. For a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work too, though they may need additional seasoning.
Tortillas: I love using corn tortillas for their authentic taste. However, if you prefer flour, they’re just as great! If you’re gluten-free, look for corn or gluten-free tortillas at the store.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but you can substitute with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for extra spice. Just keep in mind that the melting quality may vary.
Sauce Ingredients: Sour cream adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute. For added zest, try adding a bit of hot sauce to the mayonnaise-ketchup-mustard mix.
How Can I Get the Perfect Smash on My Burger Patties?
Getting a nice smash on those burger patties is key to achieving a good crust and flavor. Here’s how to do it well:
- Be sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef. This helps create that beautiful crust.
- Use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly on the beef balls. Flatten them out to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season the beef after smashing for better flavor absorption. A good pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika goes a long way!
- Cook without moving them for the first few minutes. This allows a golden crust to form.
Following these tips will help you make perfectly smashed burger patties every time! Enjoy your tacos warm for the best experience.
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles, for garnish
- Shredded lettuce, for garnish
- Chopped onions, for garnish (optional)
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a short while, you’ll have delicious smash burger tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for cooking the burgers!
2. Prepare the Beef:
Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions, about 2 ounces each. Roll them into loose balls. This will give you the perfect size for smashing!
3. Smash the Burgers:
Carefully place the beef balls onto the hot skillet. Using a spatula, smash each ball flat. Make sure to season them with salt, pepper, and paprika for a boost of flavor!
4. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook for around 2-3 minutes, or until they have a nice crust. Then flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes. During the last minute, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each patty so it can melt beautifully!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burger patties are cooking, warm the tortillas in a separate pan or on the grill until they’re pliable. This makes them easier to fold and eat!
6. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together sour cream, mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. This creamy sauce will tie everything together nicely!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place a smashed burger patty on each warm tortilla. Top it off with your special sauce, a handful of shredded lettuce, chopped onions (if you like), and some pickles for a crunch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tacos immediately while they’re warm. Dig in and enjoy your delicious Easy Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey will work, but keep in mind it may be a little drier than beef. To compensate, you might add a tablespoon of oil or use a higher-fat ground turkey blend (like 85/15) to keep the patties moist and flavorful.
How Can I Prepare These Tacos in Advance?
You can make the burger patties ahead of time! Form the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking for a quick meal.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through. Warm the tortillas separately using a dry pan. This will keep them from getting soggy!
Can I Add Other Toppings to My Tacos?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Avocado slices, jalapeños, or salsa can add great flavor. You can also try different cheese varieties like pepper jack or queso fresco for a twist!
