Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites! You get juicy, crispy burger patties wrapped in soft tortillas with all your favorite taco toppings.
Imagine biting into a taco with the flavors of a burger—talk about a tasty combo! I love loading mine up with cheese and pickles for that extra zing.
These tacos are super easy to make, and they always bring a smile to the table. Perfect for a quick meal or a fun dinner with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too, just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dryness. For a plant-based alternative, try using ground turkey or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for the tacos, but if you can’t find them, feel free to use flour tortillas. I enjoy the flavor and texture of corn tortillas, especially when they’re slightly charred.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings a rich flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can be nice spicy alternatives. If you’re cutting dairy, try dairy-free cheese options that melt well!
Garlic and Onion Powders: These add a lot of flavor, but fresh garlic and onion work too. You can minced about half a clove of garlic and add it when cooking the beef, and a small chopped onion can enhance the flavor even further. Adjust to your taste!
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash Burger?
Smashing the burger is key for that crusty, flavorful goodness we love! Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding the ground beef.
- Once the beef is in, let it sit for a couple of minutes. Don’t stir right away! This helps to form that delicious crust.
- Grab a sturdy spatula—press down firmly on the patty to smash it flat. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cook the first side until brown, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the patties gently to avoid losing the crust.
- If you’re using cheese, add it right after flipping, so it melts perfectly.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (or special sauce, see below)
For the Burger Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp pickle relish
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect choice for a fun dinner or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until creamy and smooth. Once done, set it aside for later use.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring. This helps form a nice crust on the beef.
3. Smash the Patties:
Once the beef has cooked for a few minutes, use a spatula to smash each portion firmly, ensuring they are evenly cooked. Let them cook for another 2-3 minutes until one side has a lovely brown crust. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 2 minutes. If you like cheese, place a slice on each patty at this point to let it melt.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate skillet or right over the stove flame, warm the corn tortillas lightly until they’re soft and pliable. This step makes them perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
On each warm tortilla, place a smashed beef patty with melted cheese. Top it with some shredded lettuce, chopped onions, and then drizzle on your homemade burger sauce. It’s okay to be generous—you want to taste that goodness!
6. Serve:
Dig in and enjoy your tasty smash burger tacos right away! They are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but feel free to have some extra burger sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats may have less fat, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or cooking them with some extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the burger sauce. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the meat while cooking for an extra kick!
What Should I Do with Leftover Beef?
Leftover beef can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. You can also make more tacos or use it in salads, wraps, or nachos!
Can I Prep the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the burger sauce a day ahead. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even tastier when you’re ready to assemble the tacos!
