These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist combining all the flavors of a juicy burger wrapped in a soft taco! With seasoned beef, cheese, and toppings, they’re simply delicious.
Who knew tacos could be so burger-y? I love piling on my favorite toppings like lettuce and pickles. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty snack while binge-watching!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend strikes a great balance of fat and meat, ensuring juicy patties. If you prefer leaner meat, 85/15 works well, too. For a healthier option, ground turkey or plant-based meat can be used, though the flavor will change slightly.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas add a delightful flavor. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas are a good substitute, just remember they’ll taste a bit different. You can even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Cheese: Cheddar and American are excellent choices for melting. If you’re looking for something different, Pepper Jack adds a nice kick. Vegan cheese is also an option if you prefer a dairy-free version.
Pickles: Diced pickles add tanginess. If you’re not a fan, try jalapeños for heat, or omit them altogether. Sweet pickles can work if you like a bit of sweetness, too!
Spices and Sauce: The sauce makes a big difference! You can customize by swapping mayo with Greek yogurt or using different hot sauces. Adjust them according to your taste preference!
How Do You Cook Perfect Smash Burger Patties?
Cooking smash burger patties is all about the technique! The goal is to get a nice crust while keeping them juicy inside. Here’s how to do it:
- **Preheat the Skillet:** Always start with a hot skillet! This helps create that crispy exterior.
- **Don’t Overwork the Meat:** When you add the ground beef to the skillet, don’t break it apart. Allow it to sear for crispiness.
- **Smash Early:** Use a spatula to smash the patties within the first minute of cooking to create that signature flatness.
- **Monitor Cooking Time:** Stick to the time guidelines—3-4 minutes on the first side for browning and 2 more on the second side to ensure the meat is cooked through.
- **Add Cheese:** A few moments before the patties are done, sprinkle on cheese and cover with a lid to melt quickly.
Following these tips will help you achieve deliciously crispy, juicy smash burger patties every time!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- 1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced pickles (or dill pickle slices)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the sauce, cooking the beef, warming the tortillas, and assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and fun meal that’s perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce (if you’re using it). Stir well until everything is combined and smooth. Set this tasty sauce aside for later!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little cooking oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Divide the beef into four equal portions and use a spatula to smash each portion down flat. Season with salt and pepper for flavor. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes until browned, then carefully flip them and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side.
3. Add Cheese:
Right before you take the patties off the skillet, sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top of each one. Let it melt slightly while you prepare the tortillas.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
In another skillet or on a griddle, lightly char each corn tortilla on both sides until they are warm and pliable. This only takes a minute or two!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a warm tortilla and place a beef patty right in the center. Top it with a generous amount of shredded lettuce, some diced tomatoes, and a few pickles. Make sure it’s well-filled for a delicious bite!
6. Add Sauce:
Drizzle the prepared sauce you made earlier over the fillings to add some extra flavor to your tacos.
7. Serve:
Fold the tacos in half and serve them right away. You can also add extra pickles or hot sauce on the side for those who like a little extra kick. Enjoy your tasty Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might require a bit of added fat (like olive oil) for moisture and flavor.
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, you can add extra hot sauce to the sauce mixture or incorporate diced jalapeños into the taco filling. For additional heat, consider using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar or American!
Can I Prep the Ingredients Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also pre-chop the lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles. Just be sure to keep them in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the components separately. The beef patties can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tortillas and veggies should be stored separately to prevent sogginess. Reheat the beef in a skillet until heated through before assembling fresh tacos!
