These Smash Burger Tacos bring the best of both worlds! Think juicy burger patties tucked inside warm tortillas with all your favorite toppings. So tasty and fun!
Who knew tacos could be so meaty? I love piling mine high with cheese, lettuce, and a drizzle of sauce. It makes every bite an adventure—and it’s hard to eat just one! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives these tacos great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken can work too, though they might be less juicy.
Tortillas: I used small flour tortillas for a soft texture. Corn tortillas are a fantastic gluten-free alternative and add a nice flavor twist. Just be sure to warm them up to prevent breaking.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for that bold flavor. If you want something milder, try Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Onions: Diced onions add crunch and flavor. You can swap in green onions for a milder bite, or use caramelized onions for sweetness.
Sauce: The mix of mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish is classic. If you’re trying to cut calories, you could use Greek yogurt in place of mayo or skip the ketchup for a tangier taste.
How Do I Get the Best Smash on My Burger Patties?
Smashing the beef patties is key to the flavor and texture. This method creates a nice crust while keeping the center juicy. Make sure your skillet is hot enough to really sear the beef.
- Start by heating the skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and adding vegetable oil.
- When the oil is shimmering, place your beef ball in the skillet. Use a spatula or press down firmly to flatten it into a patty.
- Don’t be afraid to really smash it down to get that crispy edge!
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing, then cook for 2-3 minutes before flipping.
Patience is key. You want that nice brown crust to form before flipping for the best flavor!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded leaf lettuce
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Pickles for topping
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a little time mixing the sauce, cooking the beef, and warming the tortillas before assembling the tacos. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish. Stir until everything is well combined and then set it aside. This will add a delicious zing to your tacos!
2. Cook the Beef:
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. While it heats up, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions and shape them into balls. Once the skillet is hot, place a beef ball in the skillet and smash it down with a spatula to form a thin patty. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the bottom is browned and crispy. Flip the patty and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s cooked through. Repeat this step for all the beef balls.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
Using the same skillet, briefly warm the flour tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and fill.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Grab your warmed tortillas and layer the smashed beef patties on top. Add a handful of shredded lettuce, some diced onions, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to each taco. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!
5. Finish with Sauce:
Drizzle the prepared sauce generously over the toppings. If you’re a pickle fan, add a few slices on top for extra flavor!
6. Serve:
Serve the smash burger tacos right away while they’re still warm, with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may be less juicy, so consider adding a little olive oil or mixing in some grated cheese for extra moisture when cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like some heat, try adding diced jalapeños or green chilies to your tacos. You can also mix some hot sauce into the sauce mixture or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the finished tacos for an extra kick.
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Of course! You can make the sauce up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, keep the components separate in airtight containers. The taco ingredients can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the beef and warm the tortillas for the best taste!
