Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your usual taco night! They mix juicy burger patties with tasty toppings wrapped in soft tortillas. Sounds mouthwatering, right?
I love how easy these tacos are to make. Just smash the burger, grill it up, and add all your favorite toppings—quick and satisfying! You won’t want to stop at just one! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 beef mix is perfect for juiciness and flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, although it may be less rich. My favorite is beef for the best flavor!
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are ideal for these tacos. If you can’t find them, try flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Flour tortillas give a different texture but can be equally delicious.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you might use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. I often mix cheeses for more depth!
Burger Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but making your own is simple! Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and a splash of vinegar for a tangy sauce. Customize it to your liking—adding pickles or spices enhances the flavor!
How Do I Smash the Burger Patties for the Perfect Texture?
Smashing the burger patties is crucial to get that crispy edge. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use a heavy spatula or a burger press to smash each beef ball gently to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes until a crust forms. Don’t rush this part; the crust adds amazing flavor!
- When you flip, add the cheese immediately so it melts nicely on top. This helps hold the sauce and veggies together when you assemble your taco.
Remember, letting the beef sear is key to a flavorful experience, so give those patties space and time!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred for juiciness)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions (white or yellow)
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying the tortillas)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. So, gather your stuff and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ground Beef:
Start by grabbing a bowl and seasoning the ground beef with a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Then, divide the beef into 8 equal portions and gently roll them into loose balls. Don’t worry about making them perfect; the smashing makes them delicious!
2. Preheat the Pan:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a splash of cooking oil to keep things sizzling and prevent sticking. You want the oil hot but not smoking!
3. Cook the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, place one beef ball in the pan. Using a spatula, smash the ball down until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Cook it for 2-3 minutes until you see a beautiful crust forming on the bottom. Flip the patty over, and sprinkle some cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked through. Repeat this step for all the beef balls—yum!
4. Fry the Tortillas:
In a different skillet, add a bit more oil and heat it over medium heat. Grab each corn tortilla and fry them for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re warm and slightly crispy. Keep them nice and cozy by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel as you finish the rest.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Time to put it all together! Take one cooked burger patty and place it on each tortilla. Top these little delights with a handful of shredded lettuce, some diced onions, and a lovely drizzle of burger sauce. Feel free to add as much as you like!
6. Serve:
Serve your Smash Burger Tacos hot and fresh, and don’t forget to set out some extra burger sauce on the side for dipping if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every last bite!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
You can use leaner ground beef, but keep in mind that 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat) is preferred for juiciness. If you use lean beef, consider adding a bit of cooking oil or a touch of grated cheese to help retain moisture.
Can I Make the Burger Sauce from Scratch?
Absolutely! To make a simple burger sauce, mix together 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon mustard, and a splash of pickle juice or relish. You can adjust the ingredients to taste and add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet until heated through, and you can warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 10 seconds each before assembling again.
What Other Toppings Can I Add to My Tacos?
Feel free to get creative! Try adding sliced tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado, or pickles for extra flavor. You could also sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for a fresh kick!
