These smash burger tacos are the fun mash-up of two favorites! With juicy beef patties cooked quickly and tucked into warm tortillas, they’re sure to please everyone.
Who knew tacos could be this tasty? I love loading mine with cheese, lettuce, and some zesty sauce. It’s a great way to bring the family together for a delicious meal without fuss!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work too, but your patties may be less juicy.
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas give a soft bite, but corn tortillas add a nice flavor. Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if needed!
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but if you prefer something different, try cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor. Vegan cheese is a great option as well.
Burger Sauce: Mix and match ingredients! I love adding a bit of hot sauce for a kick or replacing mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
How Can I Smash the Patties Perfectly?
Smashed patties are key to this recipe! The smashing technique gives you a crispy edge and a crispy bottom while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet or griddle to medium-high. A hot surface is essential for crispiness.
- Place the beef ball on the skillet and immediately press down with a spatula. Don’t be shy; a firm press is needed!
- Season with salt and pepper before cooking. This helps to lock in flavors.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes until brown and crispy, then flip and add cheese.
Give each patty enough space and don’t overcrowd the pan. These little tips will help you get that perfect smash every time!
Quick and Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 6 slices American cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (or special sauce, see below)
For the Burger Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp dill pickle relish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix everything well until smooth, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to put the tacos together.
2. Prep the Beef:
Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions and gently form them into balls. Make sure not to compact them too much; we want to keep them tender!
3. Heat the Skillet or Griddle:
Place your skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and let it get hot. A hot cooking surface is key to achieving that crispy patty!
4. Cook the Patties:
Take one beef ball and place it on the hot surface. Using a spatula, firmly press down on the ball to smash it into a thin patty. Season the top with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the bottom is nicely browned.
5. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patty over. If you’re adding cheese, place a slice on the patty right away. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patty is fully cooked.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate pan or directly on the griddle, warm the tortillas until they’re soft and pliable. This should only take a minute or two.
7. Assemble Tacos:
Take one or two of your smashed patties and place them on each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, chopped onion, and a generous drizzle of the burger sauce.
8. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your smash burger tacos fresh and hot! For an extra treat, serve with additional sauce on the side or pair with a fresh salad or crispy fries.
These smash burger tacos are an easy, delicious way to satisfy your cravings! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Quick and Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to watch the cooking time, as turkey may cook faster than beef. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the burger sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the smashed patties and toppings separately in airtight containers. The cooked patties will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, and assemble with fresh tortillas and toppings.
Can I Add Different Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, avocado, or even your favorite salsa. Get creative and make them your own!
