These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on the classic burger! Imagine juicy beef, crispy edges, and all the burger fixings wrapped in a soft taco shell.
What’s better than a taco? A taco stuffed with a smash burger! I love piling on the toppings and digging in. Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual get-together with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, go for 90/10, but it might not be as flavorful. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for these tacos. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas will work too. Just note that they might make your tacos a bit softer and less crispy.
Cheese: Cheddar and American cheese are classic choices. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for a kick or vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: Sour cream is creamy and tangy, but you could swap Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. Similarly, if you’re watching your fat intake, use light mayonnaise or a vegan mayo substitute.
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on Your Burgers?
Smashing your burgers is all about creating that delicious crust! Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is really hot before adding the beef. This helps form a great crust when you smash it.
- Don’t pack the meat tightly into a ball; just form it loosely so it retains some air and cooks well.
- Use a heavy spatula or a burger press to smash down hard—this will give you a thin patty that browns beautifully.
- Season generously with salt and pepper right after smashing, then let it cook undisturbed to form that crust, about 2-3 minutes before flipping.
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burger:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- 1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/4 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 25 minutes. You’ll spend some time cooking the juicy burger patties and warming up the tortillas, making this a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smash Burger:
Start by heating a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. While it’s heating, divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Don’t tightly pack them; just form each portion into a loose ball.
2. Smash the Burgers:
Place each ball onto the hot skillet. Using a heavy spatula or a burger press, smash the beef down to flatten it into a thin patty. Make sure to season generously with salt and black pepper. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, until you see a nice crust forming on the bottom!
3. Flip the Patties:
Once they’re beautifully browned, carefully flip the burgers and cook for another 1-2 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the patties to let it melt beautifully.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, grab another skillet or even a flame and warm the corn tortillas until they’re soft and pliable, with a little char on the edges. This makes them extra tasty!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place a cooked smash burger patty on each warm tortilla. Add shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and a generous dollop of sour cream on top.
6. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce (if you’re feeling a little spicy!). Drizzle this delicious sauce over your tacos for an extra kick!
7. Serve:
Enjoy your Easy Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re hot and fresh! Gather your friends or family and dig in for a tasty treat!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute for beef. Just keep in mind that these meats can be a bit drier, so consider adding a small amount of olive oil or a splash of broth when cooking to help retain moisture and enhance flavor.
What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?
While this recipe calls for corn tortillas for a traditional taste, you can easily swap them for flour tortillas if you prefer. Just warm them up in the same way to keep them pliable and delicious.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, and then quickly reheat the tortillas to keep them soft.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce in a bowl and store it in the fridge. It will keep well and actually let the flavors meld nicely!
