These Smash Burger Tacos are a tasty twist on two favorites! Imagine juicy burger patties, crispy edges, and all your favorite taco toppings wrapped in a soft tortilla. Yum!
Honestly, I can’t resist the combo! It’s like a party in your mouth, and the best part? You can customize each taco just the way you like it—so fun for everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. Just make sure to season well, as leaner meats have less flavor.
Flour Tortillas: Taco-sized tortillas are perfect here, but feel free to swap with corn tortillas if you prefer. Just remember corn tortillas can be a bit more delicate, so handle them with care!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. Vegan cheese is a great alternative for a dairy-free option.
Taco Sauce/Burger Sauce: If you want to keep it simple, go with your favorite store-bought sauces. For a twist, try sriracha or guacamole as a dip instead!
How Do I Get the Perfect Smash on My Patties?
The key to great smash burgers is in the technique! Start with your beef balls—don’t overwork them when mixing the seasonings. Once in the hot skillet, let each patty sizzle on one side before smashing down. This helps create a tasty crust and keeps the juices inside.
- Use a hot skillet for a good sear. Medium-high heat is ideal.
- When smashing, use even pressure to keep the patty uniform. Don’t press too hard; you want to flatten, not squish out all the juices!
- Let the patties cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them before flipping; this allows a nice crust to form.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 taco-sized flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup taco sauce or your favorite burger sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to cook. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s perfect for all age groups to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat:
Start by placing the ground beef in a bowl. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon. Be careful not to overwork the meat; you want it to stay tender!
2. Form Patties:
Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a loose ball. It’s okay if they aren’t perfect; they’ll flatten out when you cook them.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Put a large skillet or griddle on the stove and heat it over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to cook the burgers quickly, but not so hot that they burn.
4. Cook the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls in the pan, leaving a little space between each one. With a spatula or burger press, smash each meatball down to form a patty. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until you see a nice, golden crust forming on the bottom.
5. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip each patty over and immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Yum!
6. Warm Tortillas:
While the patties are finishing up, warm your flour tortillas. You can do this in a separate pan over low heat or in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until they are soft and easy to fold.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Grab a warm tortilla and layer it with 1-2 of the cheese-topped smash burgers. Add some shredded lettuce and diced onions on top. Drizzle with taco sauce or your favorite burger sauce to bring it all together.
8. Serve:
It’s time to enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos! Serve them immediately, and feel free to offer extra taco sauce or burger sauce on the side for dipping. Delicious!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, but keep in mind that they may not have the same rich flavor as beef. You may want to add a bit of extra seasoning or a dash of olive oil to enhance the taste.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make these tacos gluten-free, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. They’ll hold up nicely with all the delicious toppings!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave and warm the tortillas separately for the best texture.
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Shape the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just separate each patty with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
