Get ready for a fun twist on a classic! These Easy Smash Burger Tacos combine juicy burger patties with tasty toppings, all wrapped in soft tortillas. What’s not to love?
Perfect for taco night or whenever you crave something filling. I like to pile on the cheese and pickles—it feels like a party in my mouth! 🎉 Who’s with me?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but the tacos may be less juicy. Ground turkey or chicken can also be a lighter alternative!
Tortillas: Small flour or corn tortillas both work well—flour is softer, while corn has a nice texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas or special gluten-free flour tortillas available in stores.
Shredded Cheese: While I love using American cheese for its meltiness, sharp cheddar adds a nice bite. Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack if you want a spicy kick!
Taco Sauce: Your favorite hot sauce can really customize these tacos. If you like it mild, go for a mild taco sauce, or opt for sriracha for some heat!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Smashed Burger Patties?
The key to getting those delicious crispy edges is all in the smashing! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with hot a skillet to help caramelize the beef’s surface quickly.
- Don’t overwork the meat when mixing; just combine the seasonings lightly.
- Use a sturdy spatula to push down firmly on the beef ball—don’t be shy! This creates those great crusty bits.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes before flipping to develop that nice crust.
- Add cheese during the last minute to give it time to melt under a lid. This really enhances the flavor!
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have perfectly crispy and juicy smashed burger patties every time!
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferable)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For Assembly:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (American or cheddar)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup taco sauce or your favorite hot sauce
- Pickles for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of approximately 25 minutes. You’ll enjoy a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat:
In a bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use your hands to mix everything gently. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as you want to keep it tender.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a cast-iron skillet or a nonstick pan on the stove over medium-high heat. Let it heat up until it’s nice and hot. This will help create a great crust on your burger patties.
3. Cook the Patties:
Divide the seasoned beef into small balls, roughly 2 ounces each. Put one ball on the hot skillet, and using a spatula, smash it down into a thin patty. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, letting a nice crust form. Once done, carefully flip the patty and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked.
4. Add Cheese:
In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese over each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt nicely.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are finishing, warm up your tortillas. You can do this in another pan or on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Time to put it all together! On each tortilla, lay down a smashed burger patty with melted cheese. Top it off with some shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, and drizzle with taco sauce. Feel free to add pickles if you like that extra crunch!
7. Serve:
Fold the tacos carefully and serve them right away. Enjoy the amazing flavors of a burger wrapped in a taco. Yum!
Enjoy your Easy Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as leaner meats may need slightly less time or additional moisture to prevent drying out.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can keep the components separate, like meat, cheese, and tortillas, to maintain their freshness. Reheat the meat and cheese in a skillet and warm the tortillas briefly before assembling again.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can form the patties and keep them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. If you want to freeze them, place parchment paper between patties and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative. You can also use guacamole for a creamy, flavorful twist that fits right in with the taco theme!
