These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on traditional tacos! Imagine juicy burger patties, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings tucked inside a soft tortilla.
What’s great is how quick they are to make! You cook the burgers right on the skillet, smash them down for that perfect sear, and load them up. Just don’t forget the extra napkins—I always seem to need them! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for its perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for leaner meat, you can try 90/10, but the tacos may be less juicy. For a healthier option, ground turkey or beyond meat alternatives work well, though they may alter the flavor a bit.
Tortillas: Small corn tortillas give a nice authentic touch, but flour tortillas are a great swap if you prefer them. Just make sure to warm them up to avoid them breaking when folding!
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to because it melts nicely and adds great flavor. If you’re seeking a different taste, feel free to use Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack for a little kick!
Burger Sauce: You can use store-bought burger sauce, but you can also make a quick version by mixing mayo, ketchup, mustard, and a dash of pickled juice. It’s super easy and adds freshness!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crust on Your Smash Burgers?
Creating a perfect crust is key to a delicious smash burger taco. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before you add the beef. A hot pan helps to really sear the meat.
- Don’t be shy! Press down firmly on the beef ball with your spatula to create a nice, thin patty.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop that crispy exterior. Flip only once!
- Consider seasoning the top of the patty right before flipping to really enhance the flavor.
This technique will ensure that you get a delightful crunchy texture on your smash burgers, elevating your taco experience!
How to Make 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
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup pickles, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning the ground beef with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper in a bowl. Mix it well, then divide the beef into 8 equally sized balls, each about 2 ounces. This is what will become your tasty burger patties!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, then add a tablespoon of oil to it. Once the oil is hot, carefully place one beef ball into the pan. Use a spatula to press down firmly on the beef ball, creating a flat patty. Do this for as many patties as can fit without crowding the pan. Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes until you see a nice crust forming. Flip them over, and let them cook for another 2 minutes until fully cooked. Yum!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burger patties are cooking, take another skillet (or a grill) to warm the tortillas. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re warm and soft.
4. Layer Ingredients:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! On each warm tortilla, start by adding a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, then place one of the cooked smash burger patties on top. Next, add some shredded lettuce, diced onions, chopped pickles (if you’d like), and finish it off with a drizzle of burger sauce. Doesn’t that look delicious?
5. Serve:
Carefully fold the tortilla over the fillings to create a tasty taco. Serve them right away and consider offering extra burger sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. Just keep in mind that these meats can be leaner, so you might need to add a little oil or seasoning to keep them juicy and flavorful. Cook them in the same manner, adjusting the cooking time as needed since leaner meats can cook faster.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture before cooking. You can also top your tacos with a spicy salsa or extra hot sauce instead of the burger sauce for an added zing!
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you have leftover components (like the meat and veggies), it’s best to store them separately to keep everything fresh. Reheat the beef in a skillet or the microwave, and warm the tortillas briefly before assembling again.
Can I Use Larger Tortillas for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer larger tacos, feel free to use medium or large tortillas. Just use bigger patties to match, and adjust the amount of toppings accordingly. Larger tortillas can also hold more filling and are great for a heartier meal!
