Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic tacos! Picture juicy beef patties smashed to perfection and tucked inside soft tortillas. Yum!
These tacos are so messy yet delicious that you’ll want a napkin at the ready. I love adding my favorite toppings like lettuce and cheese for an extra crunch! 🌮
Making them is a breeze—I just grill the patties, load them in the tortillas, and dig in. Perfect for a quick dinner or a taco party with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (80/20 blend): This fat ratio keeps your burgers juicy and flavorful. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use 90/10 ground beef but add a bit of oil to maintain moisture.
Corn Tortillas: If you can’t find small corn tortillas, flour tortillas work just as well. They might be a bit softer, but they’ll still hold all the tasty fillings nicely.
Shredded Lettuce: You can easily swap shredded lettuce for shredded cabbage for added crunch. It’s a great way to mix things up!
Cheddar Cheese: While I love cheddar for its sharpness, you could also use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or even pepper jack for a little heat.
Special Sauce ingredients: If you’re out of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt makes a creamy substitute that adds a tangy kick. You could also skip the pickles if they’re not your thing; just add a bit more mustard for flavor.
How Do I Perfect the Smash Technique for Burgers?
The “smash” technique is key to getting a nice crust on your burgers. It helps to maximize flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef; this ensures a good sear.
- Form the beef into loose balls—not tightly packed—to keep them tender.
- Use a flat spatula to press down instantly after placing the beef in the skillet. The spatula should be flat to get an even patty.
- Cook until the edges look browned before flipping. This usually takes around 2-3 minutes.
- Add cheese right after flipping to allow it to melt perfectly on top.
With these tips, your burgers should turn out delicious every time! Enjoy creating your Smash Burger Tacos!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup special sauce (recipe below)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 pickle, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have flavorful Smash Burger Tacos ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
Begin by preparing your special sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, chopped pickle, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until it’s smooth. Give it a quick taste and adjust any seasonings if needed. Set this tasty sauce aside for later.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Now, let’s get the beef ready! Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil to it. While it heats up, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a ball—try not to pack them too tightly.
3. Cook the Beef:
Once your skillet is hot, carefully place the beef balls onto it. With a spatula, press each ball down to create a patty; this is what makes the “smash” burger! Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges look nicely browned. Flip the patties over and add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is all melted. Don’t forget to season them with salt and pepper!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, take a separate pan and lightly toast the corn tortillas until they’re warm and flexible. This will make them perfect for holding all the delicious fillings!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
It’s time to put it all together! Place two smashed burger patties onto each warm tortilla. Next, pile on the shredded lettuce and diced onions. Finish off each taco with a generous drizzle of the special sauce you made earlier—yum!
6. Serve:
Serve these Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re hot and tasty. It’s a great idea to have some extra special sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your delicious tacos!
### Smash Burger Tacos: FAQ
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just remember to add a bit more seasoning, as turkey can be milder in flavor compared to beef. You might also want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to keep it juicy while cooking.
Can I Substitute the Tortillas?
Yes! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are perfect. You could also use flour tortillas for a softer bite or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different tortillas may need adjustments for warming.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover components separately. Place the smashed burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the tortillas, lettuce, onions, and special sauce stored separately to maintain their freshness. Reheat patties gently on a skillet before assembling your tacos again!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The special sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving, and it’s ready to go!
