Get ready for a tasty twist on tacos with these Smash Burger Tacos! They combine juicy, crispy beef patties, warm tortillas, and your favorite toppings for a fun meal.
These tacos are perfect for a quick dinner. I love piling on cheese and pickles—it’s like a burger wrapped in a taco! You’ll never look at tacos the same way again! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is recommended for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10, but keep in mind it’ll be less juicy. For a different flavor, you could use ground turkey or chicken.
Tortillas: Small flour or corn tortillas work best. If you’re gluten-free, try corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps. They’ll hold everything together nicely while adding their own unique flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts well and adds a nice tang. If you want a creamier texture, consider Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend. Vegan cheese is also a great alternative for a dairy-free option.
Onions: Diced onions add a nice crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, use green onions or shallots. For a sweeter touch, caramelized onions could be a delicious substitute.
Burger Sauce: Store-bought is easy, but a homemade mix of mayo, ketchup, mustard, and pickles can elevate the flavor. If you like heat, add some hot sauce or spicy mayo.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Patties for Perfect Flavor?
The technique for cooking the patties is crucial for getting that smash burger flavor. By smashing the meat, you increase the surface area, which creates a delicious crust.
- First, keep the meat loose. Don’t pack it tightly into balls; this helps them stay juicy.
- When the oil is hot, place the meat balls in and use a spatula to smash them down flat. You want them to be about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing to enhance the flavor.
- Flip once they’re browned, adding cheese immediately so it melts beautifully on top.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burger Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup onions, diced
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking and assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Shred the lettuce and dice the onions. Set your burger sauce aside so it’s ready to use later. This will make the assembly quick and easy!
2. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet or griddle, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. This will ensure your patties get that nice, crispy edge when you cook them.
3. Make the Patties:
While the pan heats up, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions, about 2 ounces each. Roll each portion into a ball, making sure they are not too tightly packed. This helps keep them juicy!
4. Cook the Patties:
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meatballs onto the skillet. Using a spatula, smash each ball down into a thin patty. Season the patties with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re nicely browned.
5. Flip and Add Cheese:
Now, flip the smashed patties and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cook for another minute until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties finish cooking, warm your tortillas in another skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re soft and flexible. You want them nice and warm for folding!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Take each warm tortilla and place one cheesy smash burger patty in the center. Top with shredded lettuce, diced onions, and drizzle with your burger sauce. Feel free to add more toppings if you like!
8. Serve:
Serve your smash burger tacos warm and enjoy! You can also provide additional burger sauce on the side for dipping if desired. They’re delicious and perfect for a fun meal!
Enjoy your delicious Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just be sure to season it well since these meats can be milder in flavor. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re safe to eat.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make these tacos gluten-free! Just use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and check that your burger sauce is gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free options!
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
To store leftovers, remove the toppings from the tacos and place the meat patties and tortillas in airtight containers. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet and warm the tortillas before assembling again for freshness!
Can I Prepare the Patties in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and keep them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just make sure to cover them tightly. If you want to freeze them, place the uncooked patties between parchment paper in a freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking for the best results!
