Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your favorite burger! These tasty tacos are filled with juicy, smashed beef patties, cheese, and all your burger toppings wrapped in a soft tortilla.
The best part? You can load them up however you like! Personally, I like adding pickles and a sprinkle of onions for that extra crunch. Who doesn’t love a taco that tastes like a burger? 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use 90/10, but make sure to cook it carefully to avoid drying it out. For a different flavor, try ground turkey or chicken.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer flour tortillas or have dietary restrictions, you can use them too, but they won’t have the same authentic taste. Try to warm them well for flexibility.
Creamy Toppings: I like using cheddar cheese for its flavor, but American cheese melts beautifully if you want that classic look. You could also use pepper jack for a little kick or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds crunch and flavor. For a milder taste, try green onions or skip them entirely. If you like a bolder flavor, sauté the onions first!
Burger Sauce: While I suggest using burger sauce or Thousand Island dressing, you could make your own with mayo, ketchup, a splash of pickle juice, and spices. This can add a personal twist!
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Beef Patties?
Cooking the beef patties is key to getting that tasty smash burger experience. A good sear adds flavor and crunch. Here are my tips to make it easy:
- Heat your skillet until hot—this helps achieve that nice brown crust.
- Use small balls of beef (about 2 oz) and gently place them in the pan. Then, quickly smash them down with a spatula.
- Don’t flip too soon! Letting them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side helps develop a great crust.
- Be sure to season both sides with salt and pepper before cooking.
These techniques will make your tacos taste incredible! Enjoy the crunchiness with every bite!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (or Thousand Island dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 30 minutes. You’ll spend your time prepping the ingredients, cooking the beef, and assembling the tacos. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Shred the iceberg lettuce, chop the onion finely, and make sure your burger sauce is ready to go. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smooth and fun!
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, take small balls of ground beef (about 2 oz each) and add them to the skillet. Use a spatula to really smash each ball into a patty, about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t be shy with the pressure! Season each patty with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned and crispy. This is the star of your tacos!
3. Heat Tortillas:
While your burgers cook, take another skillet and heat it over medium heat. Toast each corn tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side. You want them warm and pliable, perfect for folding later!
4. Assemble Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spread some shredded cheese over each warm tortilla. Once your burgers are cooked to perfection, place them on top of the cheese. The heat from the burgers will help the cheese melt just a little, making it extra delicious.
5. Add Toppings:
Top each smashed burger patty with a generous amount of shredded lettuce and chopped onion. Finish with a drizzle of your burger sauce for that extra flavor kick. Yum!
6. Serve:
Fold the tacos gently and serve them immediately. You can also put some extra burger sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos with friends or family—they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey for a leaner option! Just keep in mind that it may not be as juicy as ground beef. To add moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of olive oil or using a slightly higher fat content, such as 85/15 ground turkey.
What if I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No problem! You can substitute with flour tortillas if that’s what you have on hand. Flour tortillas tend to be softer, so they may hold up differently, but they will still taste delicious!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the components separate in airtight containers. The cooked patties and toppings can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet for a few minutes before assembling the tacos again for the best results.
Can I Make the Burger Sauce from Scratch?
Absolutely! To make a simple burger sauce, mix together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Taste and adjust the ingredients according to your preference for sweetness or tanginess!
