These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your regular taco night! Juicy beef patties are smashed and cooked to perfection, then tucked inside warm tortillas.
Who knew burgers could be this playful? I like to load mine up with cheese and your favorite toppings. Trust me, this combo will have everyone asking for seconds! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juicy burgers. If you want a leaner option, you could use 90/10 or even ground turkey, though it may not be as juicy.
Tortillas: Soft corn or flour tortillas work great here. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, corn tortillas are your best bet. For a spicy kick, try flavored tortillas, like chili or jalapeño.
Cheese: Cheddar or American cheese gives that classic burger flavor. If you want to switch it up, pepper jack adds heat, while a dairy-free cheese can be used for a lactose-free option.
Taco Sauce: You can use any taco sauce you like. If you want a fresher option, pico de gallo or salsa can also do the trick for a vibrant topping.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Smash Burger Patties?
Getting that deliciously crispy edge on your patties is all about smashing and cooking them right. Here are the steps to nail it:
- First, make sure your skillet is really hot. This helps the meat sear right away.
- Form your beef into loose balls, then smash them down quickly to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a spatula to press down firmly but gently.
- Season the patty well with salt and pepper for flavor. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, so the edges can get nice and crispy.
- When flipping, add cheese right away so it melts as the other side cooks—about 1 minute should do it.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly crispy and delicious smash burgers in taco form! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 😊
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 small soft corn or flour tortillas
- 6 slices of cheddar cheese or American cheese (optional)
- Pickle slices (about 6)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or hot sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes total—5 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes to cook everything up. It’s quick and easy, perfect for weekday dinners or a fun weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by making the sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and either smoked paprika or hot sauce until everything is well combined. This tasty sauce will add a nice flavor to your tacos, so give it a taste and adjust if needed. Set it aside for now.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Take your large cast-iron skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-high heat. You want it very hot, as this helps to create those wonderfully crispy edges on your burger patties.
3. Prepare the Beef:
While the skillet heats up, portion out the ground beef. Divide it into 6 equal portions—each should be about 2.5 ounces. Gently roll these into loose balls. Don’t pack them too tightly; you want to keep some air in there.
4. Smash the Patties:
Place one beef ball onto the hot skillet. Now, here comes the fun part! Using a spatula or a flat press, quickly smash it down to about 1/4 inch thick. Season generously with salt and pepper—you want that flavor!
5. Cook the Patties:
Let your patty cook for about 2 minutes. You’ll notice the edges get brown and crispy, which is exactly what you want! After 2 minutes, carefully flip the patty over. If you’re adding cheese, place a slice on top right after flipping and cook for an additional minute until it’s melted and the patty is cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While you’re cooking the remaining patties, warm up the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave. If you’re using the microwave, wrap them in a damp towel to keep them soft and pliable.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s assembly time! Grab a warm tortilla, place a smash burger patty in the center, drizzle some of your prepared sauce on top, then add a pickle slice and a handful of shredded lettuce. If you like extra sauce, go ahead and add some more!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Smash Burger Tacos are ready to be served! Dive into these delicious tacos right away for a fantastic meal that combines the best of burgers and tacos in one bite!
Enjoy your cooking and the yummy tacos you’ve created! 🌮🍔
FAQ for Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef like 90/10, but keep in mind that it may result in drier patties since there’s less fat. For best flavor and juiciness, the 80/20 blend is ideal!
What If I Don’t Have Tortillas?
No problem! You can use burger buns, lettuce wraps, or even pita bread as an alternative. Each option offers a different flavor and texture, so feel free to get creative!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Just make sure they are well wrapped to prevent drying out. When ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before smashing them in the skillet.
How Should I Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm the patty in a skillet and the tortilla in a microwave—just be careful not to overcook them!
This FAQ aims to help you get the most out of your Easy Smash Burger Tacos and address any potential concerns while preparing or enjoying them!
