These Smash Burger Tacos combine the best of both worlds! Juicy beef patties are smashed flat and tucked into warm tortillas. Top them with cheese, lettuce, and your favorite sauces for a fun twist.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want a taco that tastes like a burger? I love to whip these up for game nights—the perfect finger food that everyone can enjoy and gobble up in minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (80/20 blend): This blend has the right fat content for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but add a bit of olive oil to keep it moist.
Tortillas: I love using flour tortillas; they’re soft and hold everything well. If gluten is a concern, corn tortillas work perfectly too—just be aware they can break easier!
Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor, but American melts beautifully. You could mix it up with pepper jack for added spice or even use a dairy-free cheese if you need a vegan option.
Lettuce: Iceberg is crisp and refreshing, but feel free to use romaine or even spinach for a different texture and a bit more nutrition.
Sauce: Taco sauce adds zest, but if you prefer a classic taste, ketchup and mustard work well for a burger twist. You can make a special sauce with mayo, ketchup, and a dash of spices too!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Beef Patties for Smash Burger Tacos?
Cooking the beef correctly is crucial for a great taco. Start by getting your skillet nice and hot before adding the ground beef. Here’s how to ensure perfect patties:
- Form balls of ground beef, but don’t overwork them—this keeps them tender.
- Press down firmly with a spatula to create that smash burger effect; this helps develop a flavorful crust.
- Season simply with salt and pepper for the best flavor.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until a good crust forms, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- During the last minute, add cheese and cover the skillet to help it melt evenly.
Following these steps ensures your patties are juicy and flavorful, making your Smash Burger Tacos a hit! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 4 taco-sized flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup taco sauce or burger sauce
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll get your tasty Smash Burger Tacos ready in no time, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by heating a small amount of cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. This will help to give the beef a nice sear and flavor.
2. Cook the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into four equal balls, each about 4 ounces. Place one ball in the hot skillet and press down firmly with a spatula to flatten it into a patty. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to boost the flavor. Repeat this process for the remaining meat balls.
3. Cook the Patties:
Let each patty cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side until a nice crust forms. Then, flip the patties and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. In the last minute, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of each patty and cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, grab another skillet and warm the tortillas over low heat. Cook each one for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable, perfect for folding!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place a cooked patty onto each tortilla. Then, top with shredded iceberg lettuce, diced onions, and a generous drizzle of taco or burger sauce. Yum!
6. Serve:
Serve your Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re hot and crispy. Don’t forget to keep some extra taco sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground beef that’s 90/10 or even turkey for a lighter taco. Just be cautious as leaner meat might dry out more quickly, so consider adding a bit of extra seasoning or a splash of broth while cooking to keep it moist.
What If I Don’t Have Flour Tortillas?
No problem! You can substitute them with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas are generally smaller and may not hold as much filling, so you might want to use a couple per taco to achieve the same delicious effect!
How Do I Store Leftover Filling?
To store leftover meat, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you can use it for more tacos or as a topping for salads!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Try adding diced tomatoes, avocado, jalapeños, or even pickles for a fun twist. You can also swap out iceberg lettuce for cabbage or use your favorite cheese for added flavor. Enjoy making it your own!
