Smash Burger Tacos are the best of both worlds! Picture juicy, flavorful beef patties tucked into warm, soft tortillas, topped with your favorite fixings. Yum!
These tacos are quick to make and super fun to eat! I love stacking them high with cheese, lettuce, and salsa. You really can’t go wrong with a burger in taco form! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is recommended for the right balance of flavor and moisture. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but keep in mind the texture will be different.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for these tacos, but if you can’t find them, feel free to use flour tortillas instead. They hold up well too and offer a different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re looking for something different, Monterey Jack or pepper jack work great for a little kick. Vegan cheese can be a good alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and a bit of health boost. Or even try avocado for a more wholesome touch!
Hot Sauce: It’s optional, but it adds a nice zing! If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it, or try a mild salsa for another layer of flavor.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Smash Burger Patties?
Cooking the beef properly is crucial for delicious smash burger tacos. The key is to handle the meat minimally and allow it to form a good crust, which adds flavor and texture.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high and add oil for a non-stick surface.
- Once the ground beef hits the pan, don’t stir it right away. Let it caramelize for 2-3 minutes.
- Use a sturdy spatula to smash the beef down for thin patties. It’s okay if some juices escape; that adds to the flavor.
- Be generous with salt and pepper; it really enhances the taste.
- For that melted cheese effect, cover the skillet briefly after sprinkling the cheese over the patties.
Delicious Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup pickles, sliced
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 20 minutes total for this recipe. This includes 5 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty meal you can whip up any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce (if you like it spicy) until everything is well combined. Set this delicious sauce aside for later. It’s going to bring your tacos to life!
2. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Grab a large skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the oil and let it warm up. You want it nice and hot to get a good sear on the meat.
3. Cook the Beef:
Once the oil is hot, add your ground beef to the skillet. Break it up into small clumps with your spatula but don’t stir right away! Let it cook untouched for about 2-3 minutes so it can form a nice crust on the bottom.
4. Smash the Burgers:
After 2-3 minutes, it’s time to smash! Firmly press down on the beef with your spatula to create thin burger patties. Season them generously with salt and black pepper. Let them cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are crispy and cooked through. Yum!
5. Add Cheese:
Once your patties are looking good, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt for about 1-2 minutes. What a beautiful sight!
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the cheese is melting, take a separate pan and warm your corn tortillas on medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they’re pliable and ready for filling.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now for the fun part! Place a melted cheese smash burger patty right in the center of each tortilla. Top it off with some shredded lettuce, a drizzle of your sauce, and a few pickle slices for that tangy crunch!
8. Serve:
Fold the tortillas around all those tasty fillings and serve them up right away. Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well, but keep in mind it can be leaner, so you may want to add a bit of oil or butter when cooking to enhance moisture and flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions for the burger patties.
How Can I Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you want more heat, try adding more hot sauce or include diced jalapeños into the sauce mix. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the finished tacos for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the elements separate. Place the cooked patty in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and store the sauce and toppings in separate containers. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave, and warm the tortillas just before serving!
Can I Make the Beef Patties Smaller for Kids?
Definitely! You can make smaller patties by dividing the beef into smaller portions. This is a great way to make mini tacos that are perfect for kids. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through!