Get ready for a fun twist on tacos with these Original Smash Burger Tacos! Packed with juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, and fresh toppings, they’re a kid and adult favorite!
I love how easy they are to whip up for a quick meal. Just smash those patties flat, tuck them into a tortilla, and enjoy. My secret? Extra pickles for that crunch! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but be aware that they may need extra seasoning for flavor.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are ideal for these tacos. If corn tortillas aren’t available, flour tortillas can be used; just note that they’ll have a different taste and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a classic taste. If you prefer a different flavor, try pepper jack for some spice or Monterey Jack for a milder option that’ll melt beautifully.
Vegetables: I use shredded lettuce and pickles for crunch. You can swap in shredded cabbage for extra crunch or even add diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.
Mayonnaise, Ketchup, Mustard: The sauce gives great flavor. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version, or barbecue sauce can replace ketchup for a smoky taste.
How Do I Smash Patties for the Perfect Texture?
Making the perfect smash burger patties is all about technique. The smashing process creates a delightful crust that enhances flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the ground beef at room temperature. It smashes more easily.
- Use a hot skillet and add a little cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- When you place the beef ball on the skillet, apply firm pressure with a spatula to flatten it well. This helps it cook quickly and gives a good sear.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving it to get that crust!
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper after smashing for extra flavor.
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 corn tortillas
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 cup pickles, sliced
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to make these delicious tacos, making them a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by making the sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Set this tasty sauce aside for later use.
2. Shape the Patties:
Now, let’s shape our burger patties! Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball; this will make it easier to smash them down later.
3. Smash the Patties:
Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a tablespoon of cooking oil to the pan. Place each beef ball on the hot surface and immediately smash it down with a spatula to form a nice, thin patty. Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes until a delicious crust forms. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
4. Add Cheese:
Now it’s cheese time! Flip the patties and place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cook for an additional minute or until the cheese is melted and gooey. Then, remove the patties from the heat and set them aside.
5. Prepare the Tacos:
In another skillet, warm the corn tortillas over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they are nice and pliable, making them easier to fold into tacos.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
It’s time to put it all together! Take a warm tortilla and place a cheesy smash burger patty on top. Add some shredded lettuce and sliced pickles, then drizzle your homemade sauce over everything.
7. Serve:
Finally, fold the tortilla in half to create your taco. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side if you like. Enjoy your delicious Original Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey patties may not get as crispy as beef patties, so add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor. Cook them on medium heat to prevent drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No worries! You can easily substitute with flour tortillas or even mini pita breads. Just remember to warm them up to keep them pliable, similar to the corn tortillas.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the microwave for a quick solution, or warm them up in a skillet for a few minutes to keep the tortillas crisp.
Can I Add Extra Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like avocado slices, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even your favorite hot sauce for extra kick. Get creative and make it your own!
