These Original Smash Burger Tacos combine the best of both worlds: juicy burger patties in a crispy taco shell! With melted cheese, fresh toppings, and a tasty salsa, they’re irresistible.
Taco Tuesday just got a makeover! You’ll love how easy it is to make these. Whether for a party or a cozy night in, they’re sure to be a hit. Just don’t forget the napkins! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives you juicy burgers with just the right amount of fat. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 works, but it may be less juicy. You could also try ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to fold, while corn tortillas add a lovely corn flavor. If you’re gluten-free, go for corn tortillas. You can also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar offers a classic burger taste, but feel free to switch it up. Pepper jack gives a spicy kick, or use a non-dairy cheese if you’re avoiding dairy. Avoid using shredded cheese as it may not melt as smoothly.
Condiments: The mix of mayo, ketchup, and mustard is excellent! If you’re looking for a healthier twist, plain Greek yogurt can replace mayo. Or add hot sauce for some extra heat!
How Do I Make Perfect Smash Burger Patties?
Smash burger patties are all about the technique. Start with room-temperature meat for even cooking. Roll the beef into balls and cook them on a hot skillet to get a great crust. The key is to smash them down immediately once they hit the pan.
- Heat your skillet with oil until it’s hot enough that a drop of water sizzles.
- Place each ball into the skillet, then press down firmly with a spatula for about 5 seconds.
- Season them with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Cook them until the edges are brown (around 2-3 minutes), then flip and add cheese to melt. Enjoy that crispy edge!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best results)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes making the smash burger patties and another few minutes assembling your delicious tacos. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smash Burgers:
Start by heating a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, divide your ground beef into equal portions of about 2 ounces each and roll them into balls. Keep them ready for smashing!
2. Smash the Patties:
When the oil is hot, take one beef ball and add it to the skillet. Use a heavy spatula to press it down flat into a thin patty. Season with a little salt and pepper. Cook the patty for about 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to brown nicely.
3. Add Cheese:
After the patties have cooked for a few minutes, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Let the cheese melt as the burger continues to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This will give you that delicious, gooey cheese that everyone loves!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
In another pan, take your tortillas and lightly toast them for about 30 seconds on each side until they are warm and pliable. This makes folding them easier and enhances their flavor. Once done, set them aside.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! On each warm tortilla, place a smash burger patty with the melted cheese on top. Add some shredded lettuce and a few pickle slices on each one for that perfect crunch!
6. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. Mix them together to create a creamy sauce. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed—make it just right for your preference!
7. Dress the Tacos:
Drizzle that creamy sauce over the toppings in each taco. The sauce will add a lovely flavor kick to your smash burger tacos!
8. Serve:
Finally, fold the tacos closed and serve them warm. Enjoy them straight away while they’re fresh and delicious! You can even serve some extra sauce on the side for dipping if you’d like.
These Smash Burger Tacos are a fantastic blend of classic burger flavors packed into a fun taco shell. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken in this recipe, but keep in mind that they may have a different flavor and can be a bit drier than beef. To add moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of olive oil or using a higher fat content meat (like 85/15). Cook the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Cheddar Cheese?
No problem! You can use any cheese you prefer or have on hand, such as American, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist. Just make sure it melts well so it can create that gooey layer over your smash burger.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The mayo, ketchup, and mustard sauce can be made up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together. Just give it a good stir before using!
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The patties keep well for up to 3 days, while the tortillas can last about a week. Assemble fresh tacos when you’re ready to eat for the best texture, but you can reheat the patties on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
