Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on tacos, featuring juicy, smashed beef patties topped with cheese, all tucked into soft tortillas. It’s like the best of both worlds!
They’re quick to make, and the kids love them! I enjoy piling on all my favorite toppings and making each taco just how I like it. Who can resist that juicy goodness? 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 meat blend gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try 90/10, but it may be less juicy. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are traditional for these tacos. If you’re in the mood for something different, swap them for flour tortillas, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re not a fan or need a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese or a lighter cheese like Monterey Jack.
Sauces: The sauce made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard is creamy and tangy. If you’re a fan of spicy food, add some hot sauce or use chipotle mayonnaise for a kick!
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on My Burgers?
Smashing the beef is crucial for getting that crispy edge and maximizing flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet well to ensure a good sear. Use a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Add a portion of beef, then press down firmly with a spatula for about 2-3 minutes. Don’t move it around; let it develop a crust.
- Flip carefully after browning to keep it intact and cook for just an extra minute to finish. Crispy edges are what you’re after!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- Pickles for garnish
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the sauce and ingredients, and then another 20 minutes cooking the burgers and warming the tortillas. It’s quick and easy for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and set aside so the flavors can blend together.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to brown on one side.
3. Smash the Burgers:
Using a spatula, press the beef down flat against the skillet to form thin patties. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are crispy around the edges. Flip the patties and cook for another minute or until they are fully cooked through.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate pan, warm the corn tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they are pliable and warm.
5. Assemble Tacos:
On each warmed tortilla, place a smashed burger patty. Top the patty with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t forget to drizzle your prepared sauce over the top!
6. Garnish:
Add pickles on top of each taco for extra crunch and flavor. These will give your burgers a nice twist!
7. Serve:
Fold the tortillas in half to create your tacos and serve them with any extra sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter option. Just ensure you adjust the cooking times accordingly, as leaner meats may require less time on the heat to avoid drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No problem! You can use flour tortillas as a substitute. Just warm them up in the skillet the same way, and they’ll work perfectly for your Smash Burger Tacos!
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover taco ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce in a separate container to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy. To reheat, pan-fry the beef and warm the tortillas briefly before assembling them again.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when you’re ready to assemble your tacos!
