Get ready for a tasty twist on two favorites with these Smash Burger Tacos! Juicy beef patties are smashed and cooked to perfection, then wrapped in soft tortillas.
These tacos pack a punch of flavor and are oh-so-fun to eat! I love to top mine with cheese, pickles, and a dash of mustard for that classic burger vibe. Yum! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is great for juiciness, but you could use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, just keep in mind that it might be less juicy. Plant-based ground meat is also a good substitute for a vegetarian twist!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas give that authentic taco flavor, but you could use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer wrap. Just warm them up to enhance their pliability!
Cheddar Cheese: I love cheddar for its sharp flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice spin. You can also try vegan cheese for a dairy-free option!
Pickles: Sliced pickles add a nice crunch and tang, but if you’re not a fan, you can swap in sliced jalapeños for some heat or diced tomatoes for freshness.
How Do You Get That Perfect Smash on the Beef?
Smashing the beef is key to getting that delicious crust! Here’s a quick guide:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the oil.
- Break the ground beef into small chunks and place them in the skillet.
- Use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly; you want to flatten it but avoid making it too thin.
- Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes to build that crust, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Remember, the longer you let them cook without flipping, the better the crust will be!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 8 taco-sized corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/4 cup pickles, sliced
For the Burger Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the sauce and cooking, and another 15 minutes making the tacos. It’s quick, easy, and super tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Set the sauce aside for later.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Take the ground beef and break it into small chunks directly into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Smash the Beef:
Once the beef is in the skillet, use a spatula to press down on the chunks to form patties. Cook them without moving for about 2-3 minutes, so they get a nice crust. After that, flip the patties and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Melt the Cheese:
When the patties are almost done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 1 minute, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate skillet, take your corn tortillas and warm them over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they are soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place a beef patty with melted cheese onto each warm tortilla. Top with some shredded lettuce and slices of pickle. Drizzle with the sauce you prepared earlier to add some extra flavor.
7. Serve:
Enjoy your smash burger tacos warm! They also go great with your favorite sides or extra condiments. Dive in and savor each delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so consider adding a little extra cooking oil or moisture to prevent dryness. Also, using dark meat turkey will give you more juiciness compared to leaner ground turkey.
How Do I Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the ingredients separate if possible, especially the sauce and tortillas, to maintain their texture. When ready to eat, reheat the beef and cheese in a skillet and warm the tortillas before assembling again!
Can I Make These Tacos Spicy?
Absolutely! For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef while cooking. You could also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for added heat. Feel free to adjust the spice level according to your taste!
What Other Toppings Can I Use on Smash Burger Tacos?
The possibilities are endless! You can add diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or even sautéed onions and peppers for more flavor. If you want a fresh kick, try adding cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving!
