These Original Smash Burger Tacos combine the best of two worlds! Juicy beef patties are smashed and perfectly seasoned, all wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Let’s be real, what’s better than tacos and burgers? I love to top mine with cheese, lettuce, and a drizzle of sauce—so tasty! You can easily customize them for your family’s taste.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the best flavor because the fat keeps the meat juicy. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but they may not have the same rich taste. I’ve found that using high-quality meat makes a big difference!
Tortillas: Use either corn or flour tortillas based on your preference. Corn tortillas offer a slightly firmer texture, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. If gluten-free is a must, opt for corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas.
American Cheese: It’s classic for its meltiness. However, you can swap it with cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper taste. Just slice it thinly to ensure it melts properly.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work well as a substitute. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein, too!
Additional Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Diced onions, sliced tomatoes, or even jalapeños can add more flavor. I particularly love adding fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
What’s the Best Way to Smash and Cook the Patties?
Cooking the patties correctly is key to getting that lovely crispy edge. Start by heating your skillet until it’s hot—test it by flicking a little water on it; if it sizzles, you’re ready!
- Form the beef into loose balls without compacting it too much; this keeps the patties tender.
- Once on the hot skillet, use a spatula or burger press to flatten each ball quickly. Don’t be shy with the pressure!
- Season well with salt and pepper as you cook them for 2-3 minutes until the edges are beautifully brown and crispy.
- Flipping the burgers is crucial; place a slice of cheese on the patties immediately after flipping, so it’s melting while finishing cooking.
These steps will ensure your smash burgers turn out delicious every time! Enjoy your taco twist on a classic burger!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour, as preferred)
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- diced onions
- sliced tomatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing the sauce, and another 10 minutes cooking the patties and assembling the tacos. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
First, preheat your skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. This will help get those delicious, crispy edges on your patties!
2. Prepare the Beef:
While the skillet is heating up, take the ground beef and form it into loose balls, about the size of a golf ball (2 ounces each). Be careful not to overwork the meat; you want to keep it tender.
3. Cook the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls on it, making sure to space them apart. Use a spatula or a burger press to smash each ball down into a thin patty. Sprinkle on some salt and pepper to season them well.
4. Add Cheese and Finish Cooking:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are nice and crispy. Then, flip them over and add a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another minute so that the cheese melts beautifully.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
Next, take the tortillas and warm them on the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and easy to fold.
6. Assemble Your Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place one cheesy patty on each tortilla. Top it off with shredded lettuce, pickle slices, and any optional toppings like diced onions or sliced tomatoes that you enjoy.
7. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and paprika until well combined. This will give your tacos a yummy extra flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle the sauce over your assembled tacos, and they’re ready to serve! Enjoy your smash burger tacos while they’re still hot and delicious!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to beef! Just ensure that the meat is well-seasoned since these leaner meats can be less flavorful. Cook them thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute American cheese with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts well. Just slice it thinly to ensure it melts evenly on the hot patties!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover patties and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the patties on a skillet until heated through, and lightly warm the tortillas in the microwave or on the skillet before assembling your tacos again.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure the flavors are well combined!
