These Original Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic burgers! Imagine juicy beef patties tucked inside soft tortillas, topped with cheese, lettuce, and all your favorite toppings.
What’s better than a taco night? A taco night with hamburgers! I love how easy they are to make. Just smash, cook, and stuff those tortillas—dinner is ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for healthier options, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind these may not have the same rich taste.
Flour Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are great for these tacos. If you’re gluten-free, corn tortillas work well too. They’ll add a different texture and flavor, making your dish unique!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully, but feel free to switch it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack are excellent substitutes for a milder cheese. If you prefer non-dairy, look for vegan cheese that melts.
Burger Sauce: This sauce is versatile! Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy kick. You can also experiment with different spices to suit your taste—maybe add a dash of hot sauce for some heat!
Why Is Smash Cooking So Important?
Cooking the patties by smashing them down creates those delicious crispy edges and a flavorful crust. Here’s how to get it right:
- Form the beef into loose balls, not tight patties. This helps them stay juicier.
- As soon as you place the ball on the hot skillet, smash it down firmly with a spatula. This is what gives the patty its name!
- Don’t move the patty around after smashing it; let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes. This is key for that crispy texture!
Keep an eye on the cooking time; you want to flip it when the edges are brown but not burnt. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and spices to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes from start to finish—10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy, so you can enjoy these delicious tacos in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together some mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and any spices you like, such as paprika or garlic powder. This will be your tasty burger sauce! Give it a good stir and set it aside for later.
2. Heat the Cooking Surface:
Get your large flat skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-high heat. Pour a little cooking oil onto the skillet to coat the surface. This helps with cooking the patties evenly.
3. Form and Cook the Patties:
Take a portion of ground beef (about 2 ounces) and roll it loosely into a ball. Place that ball on the hot skillet and then press it down firmly with a spatula to make a thin patty (around 1/4 inch thick). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges turn crispy and brown.
4. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patty over and place a slice of cheddar cheese right on top. Cook for another minute until the cheese melts beautifully over the patty.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burgers are finishing up, take the flour tortillas and warm them on another part of the skillet or in a separate pan for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they are soft and ready to use.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now for the fun part! Place a cheesy smash burger patty on each warm tortilla. Top it off with a handful of shredded lettuce and a few slices of pickles. Drizzle your homemade burger sauce over the top to add that special flavor.
7. Serve:
Fold the tortillas over the delicious filling to create your tacos. Serve these hot and enjoy your unique take on a taco with the amazing flavors of a classic smash burger!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
While you can use leaner ground beef, like 90/10, it might not have the same juicy flavor. The 80/20 blend is ideal for smash burgers as it delivers the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If using lean beef, consider adding a bit of extra oil to the skillet to prevent the patties from drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Flour Tortillas?
If you don’t have flour tortillas, you can substitute with corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a lower-carb option. Just make sure to warm them up slightly so they are pliable and won’t break when folded.
How Can I Store Leftover Taco Components?
Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers. The cooked patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, while the sauce and toppings should be used within a week. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet for a minute or two on each side until heated through.
Can I Customize the Burger Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to personalize the sauce to your taste. Add diced pickles for a tangy crunch, or mix in some spicy elements like sriracha or cayenne pepper for heat. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist!
