These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on the classic burger! With juicy beef patties, tasty toppings, and soft tortillas, they are perfect for a quick meal that everyone will love.
Who doesn’t love eating tacos? I can whip these up in no time, and they’re always a hit. Pile on your favorite fixings, and you’ve got a delicious dinner ready in a flash! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the best juiciness and flavor. If you want a leaner option, go for 90/10, but the tacos may be drier. For a twist, try ground turkey or chicken!
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are soft and chewy, but corn tortillas add a nice flavor. Feel free to substitute with gluten-free tortillas if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using cheddar for its meltiness. If you’re looking for something different, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or American cheese for classic flavor.
Special Sauce: This sauce brings everything together! You can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier bite or use store-bought burger sauce if you’re short on time.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash Burger Patties?
The key to great smash burgers is all in the smashing technique! It’s what makes them crispy and flavorful. Here are some steps to get it right:
- Use a hot skillet to achieve that perfect crust. Preheat it properly before adding the beef.
- When you smash the meat ball, apply firm pressure and make sure it’s uniform. This ensures even cooking.
- Season right after smashing for better flavor absorption!
- Don’t flip too soon; wait until the edges are beautifully browned before turning.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have delicious, perfectly crispy smash burger tacos every time!
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 small soft flour or corn tortillas
- 4 slices cheddar cheese, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 8 pickle slices
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Optional: hot sauce or chili powder to taste
Other:
- Cooking oil or butter for skillet
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10-15 minutes of cooking time, making it super quick! In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
Start by mixing together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Give it a good stir until it’s well combined. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some hot sauce! Set the sauce aside while you prepare everything else.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a large skillet or griddle and heat it on medium-high. Lightly coat the surface with a little cooking oil or butter to help prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions—about 2 oz each. Roll each portion into a loose ball; this will make it easier to flatten later.
4. Smash the Patties:
Now, it’s time to cook! Place 2-3 beef balls in the hot skillet, but make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan. Using a firm spatula or a burger press, smash each ball down into a thin patty, about ¼ inch thick. Right after pressing, sprinkle some salt and black pepper on top.
5. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook for about 2 minutes or until the edges are looking brown and crispy. Carefully flip the patties over, and place half a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and ensure the burger is cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are finishing up, warm the tortillas. You can do this in a pan or microwave for a few seconds to make them soft and easy to fold.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Once everything is ready, it’s time to build your tacos! Start by spreading a spoonful of the special sauce on each tortilla. Then, add one of the cheesy smash burger patties, followed by a couple of pickle slices and a sprinkle of shredded lettuce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Fold the tortillas over and serve the tacos warm. Enjoy the delightful crispy edges of the burgers paired with the creamy sauce and fresh toppings. They’re sure to be a hit!
This recipe yields 8 delicious smash burger tacos, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Tacos?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just ensure that the meat has enough fat to prevent the patties from being too dry.
How Do I Store Leftover Taco Ingredients?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the tortillas, sauce, and toppings separate for optimal freshness. You can reheat the patties in the microwave or skillet when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Prepare the Special Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can make the special sauce ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This can save time when you’re ready to assemble your tacos!
What Toppings Can I Add to My Smash Burger Tacos?
You can customize your tacos with a variety of toppings! Consider adding diced tomatoes, avocado, jalapeños, or different types of cheese. Feel free to get creative and make them your own!
