These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic tacos! Juicy, smashed burgers meet soft tortillas, creating a tasty and messy delight that will make your taste buds dance.
Each bite is a combo of cheesy, meaty goodness wrapped in warm tortillas. I love to add my favorite toppings, like lettuce and salsa, for extra flavor. Who knew tacos could be so exciting? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 ground beef works too, but it may be less juicy.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional for tacos, while flour tortillas offer a softer texture. I prefer corn for this recipe since they hold up better with the filling. Feel free to use whatever you prefer!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives a classic flavor. You could swap it out with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. I often mix in a little of each to enjoy different tastes!
Mayonnaise: This is part of the sauce that brings creaminess. If you’re looking to lighten things up, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. It’s tangy and nutritious!
Hot Sauce: The hot sauce is optional, but it adds a nice kick. If you’re not a fan of heat, consider using mild salsa as a replacement to keep flavor without the spice.
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on Your Burger Patties?
Smashing the patties is key to achieving that crispy texture that makes smash burgers so delicious. Here’s how to do it right:
- When you heat your skillet or griddle, ensure it’s really hot before adding the beef. This helps to create a nice crust.
- Shape the beef gently into balls without packing it too tightly, which keeps them tender.
- Once in the pan, use a flat spatula to give each ball a good firm smash. Don’t be shy about this step!
- Season immediately with salt and pepper after smashing. This adds flavor right into the burger.
- Cook until the edges are crispy—about 2-3 minutes on each side. Keeping an eye on them will ensure they’re golden and cooked through.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- Cooking oil, for frying
- Pickles, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a fun weeknight meal or a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce if you like some spice. Stir until it’s well combined and set it aside for later.
2. Shape the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions, about 2 ounces each. Gently roll them into balls, but don’t press them too tightly; you want them to be nice and juicy!
3. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Once it’s hot, place the beef balls on the skillet. Use a spatula to smash them down gently into thin patties. Season your patties with a little salt and pepper. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they’re crispy on one side. Then flip them over and cook for another 2 minutes until done.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, grab another skillet and warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. You want them to be soft and slightly toasty.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place a few smashed burger patties on each warmed tortilla. Top them with shredded lettuce, a generous amount of cheddar cheese, and drizzle your delicious sauce over the top.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off your smash burger tacos by adding pickles on top for an extra crunch. Serve them immediately and enjoy the tasty combination of flavors!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives if you prefer. Just note that leaner meats might need a bit more seasoning or moisture, since they don’t have the same fat content as ground beef.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover smashed burger patties and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The patties will stay fresh for about 3 days, while the toppings should be used within 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat the patties in a skillet and warm the tortillas as needed.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely!
What Should I Serve with Smash Burger Tacos?
These tacos pair well with a variety of sides! Try serving them with tortilla chips and salsa, a simple side salad, or even some roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
