These Smash Burger Tacos combine the best of both worlds! Imagine tasty taco shells filled with juicy, smashed burger patties, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings.
They’re so easy to make, and let’s face it, who can resist a burger wrapped in a taco? I love throwing in some salsa and guacamole for extra flavor—it’s a fun twist everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers, but feel free to swap in 85/15 or even ground turkey if you want a leaner option. Just note that turkey may be less juicy.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas keep it soft, but you can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. Just warm them to make them flexible.
Chedder Cheese: I love shredded cheddar because it melts beautifully. If you’re looking for something different, provolone or Monterey Jack can also add a nice touch.
Diced Onions: Yellow onions add flavor, but if you like a milder taste, go for green onions. You could also use pickled onions for a tangy twist!
Pickles: Optional, but I find they add a nice crunch. If you’re not a fan, try adding jalapeños instead for some heat!
How Do I Get My Burger Patties Crispy?
Creating a deliciously crispy smash burger is all about technique. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crust:
- Start with a hot skillet! Make sure it’s sizzling before you add the beef.
- After you place the beef ball, smash it down firmly with a spatula. The more surface area exposed, the crispier it will get.
- Don’t flip too soon! Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to allow a nice crust to form before you flip it. The key is patience here.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For the Tacos:
- 4 taco-sized flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup pickles, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to make, including cooking and assembly time. It’s a quick and tasty option for a fun meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard until well combined. Set it aside for later—this will be your delicious taco sauce!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, drizzle in a small amount of cooking oil to get things sizzling.
3. Form Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball; these will become your burger patties.
4. Smash the Patties:
Place each beef ball onto the hot skillet. Use a spatula to press down firmly, smashing them into thin patties. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
5. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese right on top of each one. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Yum!
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are finishing up, grab another skillet and warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable. This makes them perfect for folding.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Place a cheesy smash burger patty onto a warm tortilla. Top it off with shredded lettuce, diced onions, and pickles if you like. Then, drizzle that tasty sauce you made over everything!
8. Serve:
Fold the taco gently and serve immediately. You can also add some extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
While you can use leaner ground beef, it might not yield the same juicy flavor as an 80/20 blend. If you opt for lean beef, consider adding a small amount of oil to the skillet to help keep the burgers moist during cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Flour Tortillas?
No problem! Corn tortillas can be a great alternative. Just warm them up the same way you would with flour tortillas. You can also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, place the assembled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, consider storing the taco components separately (like the beef, toppings, and tortillas) to keep everything fresh and crispy.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it in your Smash Burger Tacos!
