These Smash Burger Tacos bring the best of both worlds, combining juicy burgers and crunchy tacos! With seasoned beef, cheese, and fresh toppings, they’re pure yum!
Trust me, once you’ve had one, you’ll want to make these tacos for every meal! I love adding extra guacamole – because who doesn’t want more green goodness? 🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives you the right mix of fat for flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use 90/10 ground beef, but it might be less juicy. Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for a lighter taco option.
Flour Tortillas: I prefer using small flour tortillas for a softer texture and easy handling. If you’re gluten-free, corn tortillas work well; just make sure to warm them to avoid cracking. Homemade tortillas can add a special touch too!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a creamy and tangy flavor. You could try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, or even crumbled queso fresco for a milder taste. Mozzarella can also work in a pinch, offering a nice melt.
Burger Sauce: You can use any dressing, but Thousand Island is classic! For a homemade version, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and a touch of relish. You could also swap in ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Make the Perfect Smash Burger Patties?
The smash technique is what makes these burgers special! It maximizes the crusty edges while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil to enhance browning.
- Divide the beef into equal portions and place them on the skillet. Don’t overcrowd!
- Using a strong spatula, press down firmly to flatten each portion. The key is to apply enough pressure to make it flat, but don’t press too hard that all the juices squeeze out.
- Season them while they cook! After about 2-3 minutes, you’ll see a nice crust forming. Flip carefully to cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
Remember, a hot pan is crucial for a good sear!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (or Thousand Island dressing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by finely chopping the onion and shredding the lettuce. Set the shredded cheese aside for later. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smoother and quicker!
2. Cooking the Beef:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow it to heat up. While it’s heating, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions, about 2 ounces each. This will help create small patties that fit perfectly in the tacos.
3. Smashing the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, place each portion of ground beef onto the skillet. Use a sturdy spatula to smash each portion down flat into a patty. Season the patties with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until a nice crust forms, then carefully flip them and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side.
4. Adding Cheese:
When the patties are nearly done cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid for about a minute, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly over the patties.
5. Warming the Tortillas:
While the cheese is melting, take a separate skillet or use the griddle to warm the flour tortillas. Heat them for a few seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable but not crispy.
6. Assembling the Tacos:
Now, it’s time to put it all together! Place the cheesy smash burger patties into the warmed tortillas. Top each taco with the chopped onions and the shredded lettuce for that nice crunch.
7. Adding the Sauce:
Drizzle your favorite burger sauce or Thousand Island dressing over the top of each taco. This gives it that classic burger flavor and makes it extra delicious!
8. Serving:
Enjoy your smash burger tacos immediately! Feel free to add extra toppings or sauce on the side if you like. Every bite is packed with flavor, and you’re sure to love them!
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats can be drier, so consider adding a little extra sauce or some moisture-rich toppings to keep the tacos juicy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, it’s best to keep the patties and toppings separate from the tortillas. When ready to enjoy, reheat the patties on the stovetop and warm the tortillas lightly before assembling again.
Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour?
Yes, you can definitely use corn tortillas! They will add a different flavor and texture, being slightly firmer. Just warm them similarly to flour tortillas to ensure they remain pliable and easy to fold around the fillings.
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider mixing some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the ground beef before cooking. You can also top the tacos with diced jalapeños or a spicy salsa to kick up the flavor!
