Get ready for some fun with these smash burger tacos! They combine juicy beef patties, taco toppings, and crispy tortillas for a tasty twist on classic tacos.
Trust me, it’s hard to eat just one, especially with all those yummy toppings! I like to load mine up with cheese, lettuce, and a drizzle of salsa for extra flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend gives the best flavor and juiciness due to its fat content. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use a 90/10 blend, but be mindful that it may be less juicy. For a twist, try ground turkey or chicken, but they won’t have the same richness.
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are soft and hold everything well, but corn tortillas can work too for a gluten-free option. If corn tortillas are too stiff, try heating them slightly longer to make them more pliable.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for its sharp flavor, but American cheese melts beautifully if you want a creamier texture. You could also use pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Smoky Sauce: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder could add a different flavor. You can also amp up the sauce with a bit of hot sauce for some extra heat!
How Do You Smash the Patties Perfectly?
Smashing the patties evenly is key to getting that perfect crispy edge. Here are some steps to help you out:
- Use a heavy spatula to smash down the meatball quickly. This ensures a wider, thinner patty that cooks evenly.
- Don’t be afraid to press down firmly, but balance it with a light touch to avoid squishing the juices out.
- Leave the patties undisturbed while cooking for optimal browning and flavor. It’s tempting to flip early, but wait until you see the edges crisping!
- Cook on medium-high heat, making sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat.
With these tips, you’ll get that deliciously crispy and flavorful patty every time!
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 flour or corn tortillas
- 6 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup sliced pickles
For the Smoky Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For Cooking:
- Butter or oil for toasting tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In just 25 minutes, you can have delicious smash burger tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Pan:
Start by preheating a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. It’s important the pan is hot so you can get a nice sear on the burgers.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 6 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball—don’t worry about making them perfect!
3. Smash Those Patties:
Place one beef ball in the hot skillet, then immediately use a spatula to smash it down firmly into a thin patty. Do this for the rest, ensuring there’s space between each patty for even cooking.
4. Season & Cook:
Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the patties. Let them cook without moving for about 2 minutes. This waiting time allows them to develop a crispy, brown edge.
5. Add Cheese:
When the edges are nice and crispy, flip each patty over. Quickly place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, letting the cheese melt and the beef cook all the way through.
6. Warm Up the Tortillas:
In the meantime, heat up the tortillas in another pan over medium heat with a little butter or oil until they are lightly toasted and easy to fold without cracking.
7. Make the Smoky Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and smoked paprika (if using) to create a smoky burger sauce. This sauce adds a fantastic flavor kick!
8. Assemble Your Tacos:
To assemble, take a warmed tortilla and place a smash burger patty on top. Drizzle your smoky sauce over it, then add shredded lettuce and a few pickle slices. Grab your taco, and you’re ready to go!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your smash burger tacos immediately while they’re still hot and crispy. Enjoy this exciting twist on a classic burger recipe!
With juicy patties and tasty toppings, these tacos are sure to delight everyone at the table!
FAQ for Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use a 90/10 blend, but keep in mind that it may be less juicy than the recommended 80/20 blend. For more flavor, adding a bit of olive oil can help make up for the lower fat content.
Can I Make These Tacos Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to serve them fresh for the best texture, you can prepare the taco fillings in advance. Cook and store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them before serving, and warm the tortillas just before assembly.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the components separately: keep the patties in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and store any toppings in separate containers. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet and lightly toast the tortillas again before assembling.
What Toppings can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Some great additions include diced tomatoes, avocado slices, jalapeños, or your favorite hot sauce. You can also swap out the lettuce for coleslaw for an extra crunch!
