Get ready for a tasty twist with these Smash Burger Tacos! They combine juicy beef patties smashed to perfection, wrapped in warm tortillas, and topped with your favorite goodies!
I mean, who doesn’t love the sound of burger and taco in one bite? It’s easy to make and fun to eat! Perfect for parties or a cozy dinner. Just add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for burgers since the fat provides flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, feel free to use 90/10, but know it may be drier. For a lighter option, ground turkey or plant-based meat also works well.
Flour Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are ideal for these tacos, but you can substitute with corn tortillas if you prefer that flavor. If gluten-free is your goal, look for gluten-free tortillas available in stores.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a classic burger taste. You could swap it for American cheese for extra creaminess or pepper jack for a bit of heat. Sometimes I mix cheeses for a richer flavor!
Pickles: Sliced pickles add crunch and tang. If you’re not a fan, consider diced tomatoes or even jalapeños for a fresh twist. Sweet pickles can add a nice contrast if you like that flavor!
Sauce: The sauce is a fun mix! If you want a health boost, Greek yogurt can replace mayo. You might want to add a dash of hot sauce if you like things spicy.
How Do I Properly Smash the Burgers for Maximum Flavor?
Smashing the burgers is key to developing great flavor and texture. The goal is to create a crisp crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat your skillet until hot. A well-heated surface is essential.
- Oil the skillet lightly to prevent sticking.
- Form the ground beef into loose balls, and don’t overwork the meat to keep it tender.
- Place the ball on the skillet and quickly smash down with a spatula. Press firmly but not too hard; aim for about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Season immediately with salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
This technique maximizes the Maillard reaction, creating a delicious outer crust and ensuring the patties cook evenly!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy the delicious flavors of smash burgers in a fun taco format!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and set it aside so the flavors can mingle while you cook.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. While the skillet is heating up, divide the ground beef into four equal portions, each roughly 4 ounces. This will make it easier to cook them evenly.
3. Smash the Burgers:
Once the skillet is hot, place one portion of the ground beef on it. Take a spatula and smash the beef down firmly until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. Give it a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook that patty for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is nicely browned.
4. Flip and Add Cheese:
Now, it’s time to flip the beef patty! Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty right after flipping. Cook for another 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is all melted and gooey. Yum!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the beef is cooking, warm the flour tortillas in a separate skillet or griddle. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and easy to fold. This step makes a big difference!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Once your patties are cooked, place each cheesy beef patty on a warm tortilla. Top them off with a generous handful of shredded lettuce and some sliced pickles, then drizzle your tasty sauce over everything.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully fold the tortillas around the filling, making sure it doesn’t spill out. Serve your delicious tacos right away and enjoy the amazing blend of smash burger flavors in taco form!
Enjoy your Original Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative, but keep in mind that they tend to be leaner than beef, which may affect moisture and flavor. You might want to add a little olive oil or butter to the pan to keep the meat juicy while cooking.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before using to make it easier to drizzle over your tacos.
How to Store Leftover Tacos
To store leftovers, keep the beef patties and taco fillings separate from the tortillas. Place everything in airtight containers; the beef and toppings will last up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave before serving!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can switch it up with other cheeses like American, pepper jack for a kick, or even a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the melting time if the cheese is thicker!
