These fun smash burger tacos turn your classic burger into a tasty twist! Picture juicy beef patties tucked inside soft tortillas, loaded with all your favorite toppings.
Who knew tacos could be so meaty and satisfying? I love piling on extra cheese, lettuce, and a drizzle of sauce. It’s like a party in your mouth, and I can’t get enough! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A blend of 80/20 is ideal for a juicy burger. It has enough fat for flavor without being too greasy. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but they won’t be as juicy.
Tortillas: I love corn tortillas for their authentic taste, but flour tortillas are softer and easy to fold. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas or gluten-free flour options.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a wonderful tanginess. Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or pepper Jack for a spicier kick! You could also use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Pickles: Dill pickles are classic here, but you can use sweet pickles or even jalapeños if you like some heat. They add great crunch and flavor!
Mayonnaise: This is a fantastic base for the sauce. If you’re watching your calories, Greek yogurt can substitute for a lighter version with a creamy texture.
How Do You Smash the Patties Perfectly?
The technique of smashing the patties is key to achieving that crispy edge and juicy interior. Here’s how to do it right:
- Shape the beef into loose balls, avoid packing them tightly. This keeps them juicy.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough; it should sizzle when you add the beef.
- Use a spatula or burger press to flatten the ball to about 1/2 inch thick, pressing firmly but not excessively.
- Don’t pull them up immediately; let them cook for 2-3 minutes until browned before flipping.
This technique creates a great crust and enhances the flavor that everyone loves in smash burgers. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 6 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- Cooking oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a little time mixing the sauce, shaping the patties, cooking them, and assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and fun meal to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Set this tasty sauce aside for later—it’ll add a yummy touch to your tacos!
2. Shape the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Gently roll these portions into balls. Be careful not to press them too tightly, as you want them to stay juicy when cooking.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Pour a bit of cooking oil into a large skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, place the beef balls onto the skillet. You should hear a satisfying sizzle!
4. Smash the Burgers:
Using a spatula or a burger press, smash each beef ball down into a flat patty. Cook these for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are browned and the patty looks delicious.
5. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over, and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melting, making them extra tasty!
6. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or until they feel soft and pliable. This will make them easier to fold and eat!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! On each warm tortilla, place a cheesy patty, add a few slices of pickles, and throw on a handful of shredded lettuce. It’s looking good!
8. Sauce It Up:
Drizzle the sauce you prepared earlier over the top of each taco. This is where all the flavor comes together in one delightful bite!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Carefully fold the tacos and serve them right away while they’re still hot. Enjoy your delicious Original Smash Burger Tacos with friends or family—everyone will love them!
Can I Use Leaner Meat for This Recipe?
While you can use lean ground beef, I recommend sticking to an 80/20 blend for the juiciest burgers. If you go with a leaner option, consider adding a little oil to the meat mixture to keep it moist while cooking!
What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?
You can use either corn or flour tortillas based on your preference! Corn tortillas offer a nice authentic flavor, while flour tortillas tend to be softer and more pliable. Just make sure to warm them up as directed for the best texture!
How to Store Leftover Tacos
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the patties separate from the tortillas and toppings to prevent them from getting soggy. Reheat the patties on a skillet and warm the tortillas before assembling again!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, avocado, or jalapeños for a spicy kick. Experimenting is part of the fun, so make it your own!
