Smash Burger Tacos combine crispy taco shells and juicy burger patties for a fun twist. Topped with melted cheese and your favorite toppings, they’re sure to please everyone!
Who knew tacos could get a burger makeover? I love how easy it is to whip these up for a quick dinner, and the kids can’t help but smile when they see them on the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juicy and flavorful patties. If you’re leaning towards healthier options, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they might not have the same richness.
Flour Tortillas: While small flour tortillas are perfect for tacos, corn tortillas can be a gluten-free alternative. Just keep in mind they may crack more easily, so warm them well!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is great, but feel free to swap it for Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some kick, or even a mix of cheeses if you like variety.
Burger Sauce: You can easily make your own by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and relish to taste. For a healthier twist, Greek yogurt can replace mayo, and if you want a bit of heat, add a splash of hot sauce!
How Do You Make the Perfect Smash Patties?
Smashing the patties is crucial for a good texture and flavor. Here’s how to make it work:
- Start with room-temperature ground beef; it helps in even cooking.
- Form the beef into balls but don’t overhandle it — you want those natural juices intact.
- Preheat your skillet well to get a nice sear. The cooking oil will keep your patties from sticking.
- Smashed patties should be about 1/2 inch thick. The thinner they are, the better they sear. Season them right after smashing to enhance the flavor.
Cooking them for 2-3 minutes each side allows for that delicious crust to form, while the cheese melting at the end ties all those flavors together beautifully!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and sweet relish mixed to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll enjoy flavorful smash burger tacos ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil to the pan to make sure the patties don’t stick. This sets you up for success!
2. Smash the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal balls. Carefully place each ball in the hot skillet. Using a spatula, smash each ball down into a flat patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t forget to sprinkle on some salt and pepper to enhance the flavor!
3. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn nicely browned. Once they’re ready, flip them over and cook for an additional 2 minutes. During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle a bit of shredded cheese on top of each patty so it melts perfectly!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burgers are cooking, take the time to warm the flour tortillas. You can do this in a separate skillet or simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until they’re soft and easy to fold.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now comes the fun part! Place one cheesy smash burger patty in the center of each warm tortilla. Top it off with shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and a generous drizzle of your homemade burger sauce. This is where the magic happens!
6. Serve:
Finally, fold the taco over and serve immediately while hot. These tasty smash burger tacos are perfect on their own, but feel free to enjoy them with some chips or fries on the side for an extra treat!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey! Just keep in mind that it might be a bit leaner than beef, so consider adding a little oil or seasoning to boost the flavor. Cook the patties in the same way, but ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How Do I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider mixing diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the burger sauce. You can also add sliced fresh chilies as a topping or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick!
Can I Make the Burger Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix the burger sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may separate over time.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the components separate if possible. Place any uneaten patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Tortillas and toppings can be stored in separate containers. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave before assembling your tacos again!
