Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your regular tacos! Juicy beef patties are smashed onto warm tortillas and topped with cheese, veggies, and your favorite sauces.
These tasty tacos are quick to make, perfect for a busy night. You can’t go wrong with a crispy taco and a juicy burger together—it’s like a party in your mouth! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives you juicy burgers because of the fat content. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works but won’t be as juicy. Ground turkey or chicken could also substitute, but they will have different flavors.
Tortillas: I love using corn tortillas for a classic taste, but flour tortillas are softer and great too. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas that are labeled as gluten-free since some have wheat flour.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese melts wonderfully and pairs well with the beef. You can switch to pepper jack for a bit of heat or use a dairy-free cheese if you have lactose intolerance.
Taco Sauce or Burger Sauce: You can easily swap taco sauce with your favorite condiment, like barbecue sauce or even a homemade salsa for extra flavor. Chipotle mayo is also a delicious spicy alternative if you enjoy a kick.
Shredded Lettuce: Iceberg lettuce adds crunch, but you could use romaine for more flavor or even shredded cabbage for a nice twist. Spinach also works well if you want a healthful spin.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Smash Burger?
The real trick to a great smash burger taco lies in the smashing technique! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium-high heat for your skillet. This ensures a good sear on the beef.
- Use a golf ball-sized amount of meat—too much will be hard to smash flat.
- When you place the beef on the skillet, press down firmly with a spatula to create a nice, flat patty. The more surface area, the better the caramelization.
- Season immediately with salt and pepper. Don’t wait—seasoning early helps enhance the flavor.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving it, which allows that delicious crust to form before flipping.
By following these tips, you’ll have crispy edges and juicy beef inside, making your tacos truly special!
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup white onion, diced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup taco sauce or burger sauce (e.g., special burger sauce or chipotle mayo)
- Dill pickle slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook everything, making a total of about 25-30 minutes to enjoy these delicious tacos. Quick and easy for a satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will make it easier to assemble your tacos quickly and neatly. Chop your vegetables and have your sauces ready to go!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the cooking oil. When the oil is hot, take a golf ball-sized amount of ground beef and carefully place it on the skillet. Use a spatula to smash it down flat into a patty, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s nicely browned, then flip it over. Right after flipping, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top and let it cook for another minute until the cheese is gooey and melted.
3. Heat the Tortillas:
While your beef is cooking, you can heat your tortillas. You can do this in a separate pan by warming them gently or carefully heating them over a flame until they’re slightly charred and flexible. This adds a nice flavor and texture!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place one cooked smash burger patty with melted cheese onto each tortilla. Top it off with a handful of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and onions. Then add a nice dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of taco sauce or burger sauce, and finish with a few dill pickle slices for crunch.
5. Serve:
Fold the tortillas in half, and your Easy Smash Burger Tacos are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot and dig in. These are perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty treat!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef, but keep in mind that the tastiness and juiciness may be affected. If using a leaner blend (like 90/10), consider adding a little olive oil or chopped bacon for extra moisture and flavor. Just be cautious not to overcook it!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the ingredients (like the beef and toppings) separate to maintain freshness. Reheat the beef in a skillet and warm the tortillas separately before assembling again.
Can I Make the Beef Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the smash burger patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on a skillet before assembling your tacos, and warm the tortillas as needed. This is a great way to save time on a busy day!
What Toppings Can I Substitute or Add?
Feel free to customize your toppings! You can substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for some heat, or add avocado slices for creaminess. Other delicious additions could include jalapeños, cilantro, or your favorite salsa. Make it your own!
