These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic tacos! Soft tortillas hold juicy, smashed burgers mingling with melted cheese and your favorite toppings.
Who knew tacos could be this meaty? Perfect for a quick meal, I love piling on salsa and guacamole. It’s like a party in every bite! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for great flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90/10, but it may be a bit drier. For a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but be sure to add more seasonings.
Tortillas: Small corn or flour tortillas are perfect here. If you’re gluten-free, corn tortillas are a great choice. For a fun twist, try using lettuce wraps in place of tortillas for a lighter version.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar or American cheese adds fantastic creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, vegan cheese can be a good substitute. Just make sure it melts well!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: Using sour cream adds tanginess, while mayo gives creaminess. Greek yogurt can replace both for a healthier twist, plus it adds a nice zing!
How Do I Ensure My Burgers Stay Tender and Juicy?
The main focus should be on how you handle the ground beef. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers, so mix just until combined.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the beef with salt, pepper, and powders.
- Shape the mixture into balls without packing them tightly. This keeps them light and fluffy.
- When frying, don’t press down too hard with your spatula; just a gentle press creates that nice crust while keeping juices inside.
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Tacos:
- 6 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce (optional)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Pickles (sliced, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to make these delicious Easy Smash Burger Tacos. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the meat tender and juicy.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Put a cast-iron skillet or griddle on medium-high heat and pour in the vegetable oil. Let the oil heat until it’s shimmering, which means it’s ready for cooking!
3. Form and Cook the Patties:
Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and roll them into balls. Place each ball onto the hot skillet and use a spatula to press down firmly to flatten them into patties. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until a nice brown crust forms on the bottom.
4. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties and immediately sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Allow the cheese to melt while the burgers cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Yum!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In another pan or over an open flame, warm the tortillas until they are pliable. This makes them easier to fold and enjoy!
6. Make the Spicy Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, and sriracha (if you like a kick). This will be the delicious sauce for your tacos!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
To put it all together, place one burger patty on each warm tortilla. Top it off with shredded lettuce, a drizzle of the spicy sauce, and some sliced pickles. Each taco is a bite of heaven!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Easy Smash Burger Tacos right away, alongside your favorite sides or condiments. They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats might be less flavorful than beef, so you may want to adjust the seasoning slightly or add more flavorings like Worcestershire sauce.
What If I Don’t Have Tortillas?
No problem! You can use lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or even burger buns if you prefer a more traditional burger experience. Just remember to adjust the serving size accordingly, as buns will hold more filling than tortillas.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover patties and toppings can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can warm the tortillas quickly in the microwave or on the stove just before serving.
Can I Prepare the Spicy Sauce in Advance?
Yes! The spicy sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the flavors. Enjoy!
