Get ready for a tasty twist with Smash Burger Tacos! These little wonders combine juicy beef patties with all your favorite taco toppings, wrapped in soft tortillas.
This is such a fun dish! I love how easy it is to make—you can customize your toppings just like a regular taco. I never say no to extra cheese on mine! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they may not be as rich in taste.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are traditional, but you could swap them for flour tortillas if preferred. Just remember, they’ll change the texture a bit!
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for a classic taste, but American cheese melts beautifully, giving a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. Feel free to mix and match!
Condiments: The sauce mix is key! You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier take. And if you like it tangy, try adding a splash of vinegar or hot sauce to the sauce mix.
Optional Toppings: If you’re not a fan of jalapeños, avocado slices or even a dollop of guacamole can add creaminess without the heat!
How Can I Get the Perfectly Crispy Smash Burger Patties?
Smashing the patties is essential for that crispy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a hot skillet and just enough oil to coat the bottom. The oil helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning.
- After adding the ground beef to the skillet, press down firmly with a spatula to flatten the patty. The goal is to create a good amount of surface area that will brown nicely.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Let each side cook for 3-4 minutes before flipping. This allows that crispy crust to form.
Remember, don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed to get that perfect crispy edge!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp pickles, diced
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll whip up a tasty sauce, fry the beef, warm the tortillas, and assemble everything. Perfect for a quick meal or fun dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, diced pickles, and hot sauce if you’re feeling spicy! Set this delicious sauce aside for later—it adds great flavor to the tacos.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small drizzle of cooking oil. Once it’s nice and hot, crumble in the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper, and then use a spatula to smash the beef down into thin patties. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re browned and crispy. This will give you that great burger flavor in your tacos!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is sizzling, take another skillet and heat it over medium heat. Place each corn tortilla in the skillet and warm them for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable. This makes it easier to fill and fold them!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! On each warm tortilla, place a few of the smashed burger patties. Top them with a handful of shredded lettuce and cheese. Don’t forget to drizzle the tasty sauce you made earlier over everything!
5. Add Optional Toppings:
If you like a little extra kick, toss on some sliced jalapeños, or add diced tomatoes or onions. These toppings offer a nice crunch and additional flavor!
6. Serve:
Serve your smash burger tacos warm and enjoy every bite! You can garnish with more sauce and the toppings you love. It’s a fun and tasty twist on classic burgers—perfect for taco night!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require a bit more oil to prevent drying out. Adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose for best results!
How Can I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’ve assembled them, the tortillas may get soggy, so it’s best to store the components separately (beef, sauce, and toppings) and reassemble when ready to eat. Leftovers can last up to 3 days in the fridge!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle.
How Do I Keep Tortillas from Breaking?
To keep your corn tortillas from breaking, make sure to warm them thoroughly until they’re pliable. You can also wrap them in a clean kitchen towel after warming to keep them soft while you assemble your tacos!
