These smash burger tacos combine the best of both worlds: juicy beef patties and taco fun! With a crispy tortilla and all your favorite toppings, they’re a tasty twist on dinner.
Seriously, who doesn’t love tacos? I enjoy piling mine high with cheese, lettuce, and salsa—party in every bite! Plus, they’re quick to whip up for a weeknight treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is great for juicy burgers. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90/10, but be mindful it might be less flavorful. Ground turkey or chicken can also work if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Cheese: Cheddar brings a sharp bite, while American melts beautifully. You can swap in Monterey Jack for its creaminess, or even go dairy-free with options like vegan cheese if needed.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional and taste fantastic! If you can’t find them, flour tortillas can be a softer alternative. Gluten-free tortillas are also available for those with dietary restrictions.
Pickles: They add great crunch and tang, but feel free to skip them or replace with jalapeños or banana peppers for a spicy kick. Sweet pickle relish can also be a fun alternative!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Cooked Smash Burger Patty?
Cooking the beef to perfection is crucial for flavor and texture. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat your skillet until very hot—this ensures a good sear.
- Don’t be shy to smash the beef down firmly; this gives the patty that signature crust we love!
- Cook it for about 2-3 minutes on one side to develop a nice browning before flipping.
- Add cheese during the last minute to allow it to melt on top of the patty.
Remember, the goal is to have an outer crispy layer while keeping it juicy inside. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup pickles, diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking and assembling the tacos. Quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by mixing the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Make sure it’s well combined. Then, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball (around 2 ounces each). This will give you nice little patties for your tacos!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet or griddle on medium-high heat and add a bit of cooking oil—just enough to coat the bottom. Once the pan is hot, place the beef balls onto the surface. Using a spatula or a burger press, press down on each ball to flatten them into thin patties. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re nicely browned. Flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the patties and let it melt.
3. Prepare the Tacos:
While your beef is cooking, grab another skillet and heat it over medium heat. Lightly fry the corn tortillas for about 15-20 seconds on each side. This will make them warm and slightly crispy, perfect for holding all your delicious fillings.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Place one or two of the cooked smash burger patties onto each tortilla. Top them off with shredded lettuce, diced onions, pickles (if you’re using them), and a drizzle of yummy burger sauce to finish it off.
5. Serve:
Serve your Smash Burger Tacos right away while they’re hot. You can offer some extra burger sauce on the side for dipping and add any other toppings you like. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative. Just make sure to season it well, as these meats can be a bit milder in flavor. Also, cook them thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture. You can also choose a spicier burger sauce or top the tacos with sliced hot peppers for an extra zing!
Can I Prepare the Beef Mixture in Advance?
Yes! You can mix the ground beef with the seasonings and form the balls ahead of time. Refrigerate them for up to 2 days before cooking. Just make sure to bring the meat to room temperature before frying for even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the beef and toppings separate from the tortillas until you’re ready to enjoy them again. Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave, and warm the tortillas on the stovetop before assembling.
