Easy Smash Burger Tacos combine two favorites for a fun meal! Juicy beef is smashed onto a skillet for a crispy bite, then tucked into soft taco shells with tasty toppings.
These tacos are like a party in your mouth! I love piling on cheese, lettuce, and a splash of sauce for extra flavor. You might want to make extra because they’re hard to resist! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 beef blend gives a great balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use 90/10 ground beef, but it may be less juicy. For a healthier twist, ground turkey or chicken also works well!
Tortillas: The choice of corn or flour tortillas is up to you! I prefer flour for softness, but corn adds a nice texture. You can even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic for burgers, but American cheese melts perfectly and adds creaminess. Don’t hesitate to experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free option.
Pickles: If you’re not a fan, try using diced jalapeños or sliced olives instead for extra flavor. You can also skip them if you prefer a simpler taco!
How Do I Get My Patties Crispy on the Outside and Juicy on the Inside?
The secret to perfect smash burgers lies in the smashing technique and cooking temperature. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet; this helps to create that crispy crust.
- When you smash the beef, do it firmly and evenly to flatten the patty to about 1/4-inch thick, ensuring quick cooking.
- Don’t rush! Let the patty cook undisturbed for 2 minutes before flipping for the best browning.
- Adding cheese right after flipping helps it melt while the patty finishes cooking, sealing in the juices.
Following these tips will help you serve up the crispiest smash burgers for your tacos!
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 soft taco tortillas (corn or flour)
- 6 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 6-8 pickle slices
- For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Blend them well and set aside this tasty sauce as your special burger topping.
2. Prepare the Skillet:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or a heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil or butter and let it warm up until it’s nice and hot.
3. Form the Beef Balls:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 6 equal portions. Loosely roll each portion into a ball. Don’t press them too tightly to keep them juicy!
4. Smash the Burgers:
Place one beef ball on the hot skillet. Using a spatula or a heavy flat utensil, smash it down until it’s about 1/4-inch thick. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Cook the Patties:
Let the burger patty cook for about 2 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned. Carefully flip the patty over, add a slice of cheese on top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the beef is cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, warm the tortillas in another skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Once the patties are cooked, place one in each warm tortilla.
8. Add Toppings:
Top each taco with shredded lettuce, a few pickle slices, and a generous drizzle of your special sauce. Get creative—add extra toppings if you like!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Fold the tortillas over the fillings and serve immediately. Enjoy the crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside goodness of your Easy Smash Burger Tacos!
FAQ: Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the meat choice!
How Do I Keep My Tortillas from Falling Apart?
To prevent your tortillas from tearing, make sure to warm them until they are soft and pliable before assembling your tacos. If using corn tortillas, consider lightly frying them in a bit of oil for added durability and flavor.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the special sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, flavors will have even more time to meld together!
What Are Some Good Toppings for These Tacos?
Feel free to get creative! Some great toppings include diced tomatoes, avocado slices, jalapeños, or even salsa and sour cream. Customize them to your liking for a fun twist!
