Get ready for a fun twist on taco night with Smash Burger Tacos! These are crispy, juicy burgers folded into warm tortillas, making them irresistible!
They are super easy to make, and trust me, your friends will be drooling. I love adding my favorite toppings like cheese and salsa for a tasty bite. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using an 80/20 blend for the juiciest burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 will work, but they may be less juicy. Ground turkey or chicken can also work for a lighter twist.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are my go-to for this recipe, but corn tortillas add a great gluten-free option. Just make sure they’re small enough for tacos, as larger ones can overwhelm the burger patty.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a classic flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack can give a nice kick. Vegan cheese can also be a great substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Condiments: The mayo, ketchup, and mustard mixture is a must. You could swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a healthier option. For a bolder flavor, hot sauce or a spicy mayo can also be a fun addition.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Smash Burger Patties?
Smashing the beef patties is the key technique here. This not only creates a nice crust but also helps the burger cook faster. Follow these steps for success:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef. This helps achieve that delightful sear.
- After placing the beef balls, use a spatula to press down firmly but gently, shaping them into flat patties around 1/2 inch thick.
- Cook until you see the juices starting to rise at the top before flipping; it should be about 2-3 minutes.
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper right after smashing!
Give it a try and see how those crispy edges really elevate your taco experience!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- 8 taco-sized flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pickles (sliced)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking (e.g., vegetable or canola oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the sauce and cooking the patties, plus a little time warming the tortillas and assembling everything. It’s a quick, fun meal to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and barbecue sauce if you are using it. Stir until well combined and smooth, then set it aside. This will be your delicious taco sauce!
2. Form the Patties:
Take your ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Roll each portion into a loose ball, keeping them uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet or griddle on the stove and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan, just enough to coat the bottom. This will help keep the burgers from sticking.
4. Cook the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the beef balls into the pan, making sure there’s enough space between each. Use a spatula to smash each ball down flat to about 1/2 inch thick. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a nice brown crust forms. Season with salt and pepper. Flip the patties over, and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts deliciously over the beef.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, you can warm up the tortillas! Use a separate skillet or grill to gently warm them until they are pliable. Keep them warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel. This will make them soft and easy to fold!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! In each warm tortilla, place one cheesy smashed patty. Top with a handful of shredded lettuce, some diced tomatoes, and a few pickle slices. Drizzle the prepared sauce over the top for extra flavor!
7. Serve:
Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re warm and tasty! If you like, you can serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping. These fusion tacos are sure to be a hit!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option, though the texture and flavor will be different. For a richer taste, consider using ground lamb. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose, so always check for doneness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and form the patties ahead of time. Just store the patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bring them to room temperature before cooking for even results. Warm the tortillas just before serving for the best texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat and the tortillas in the microwave or on a dry skillet for a few seconds. Add fresh toppings when serving to keep them tasting fresh!
Can I Use Different Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your tacos with your favorite toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or salsa. You could also add some diced onions or a sprinkle of cilantro for an extra flavor kick!
