These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on the classic burger, all wrapped up in a tortilla! With juicy beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, they’re quick and super tasty.
Who knew tacos could be so messy—and delicious? I love piling on the toppings and making a mini-mountain! Pair them with some chips, and you’ve got a dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef is ideal for juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, 90/10 works, but the tacos may be less juicy. You can also substitute with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground product for a lighter option.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas give a soft, chewy base, while corn tortillas add a nice crunchy texture. Choose whichever you prefer, or even try lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully and adds creamy flavor. Cheddar is a great substitute if you want a sharper taste. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese slices.
Special Sauce: You can customize the sauce to your liking. Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Burger Patties Are Perfectly Crispy?
Smash burger tacos rely on perfectly crispy patties for great flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the skillet on medium-high heat; make sure it’s hot enough to sizzle the burgers.
- When you place the beef balls in the skillet, press them down firmly with a spatula for an even, thin patty. Don’t be afraid to really smash them!
- Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a nice crust before flipping us.
- Finish with a cheese slice right after flipping for that perfect melty topping.
This technique will give you flavorful, crispy edges that everyone will love! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 6 slices American or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp pickle juice or finely chopped pickles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 5-10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the burgers. Then, a few minutes to assemble the tacos, making this a quick and satisfying dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and pickle juice or chopped pickles. Stir it all together until it’s nice and smooth. Taste it, and add salt and pepper as needed. Set this tasty sauce aside for later.
2. Heat Your Skillet or Griddle:
Get a large skillet or griddle and place it over medium-high heat. Add a little oil or butter to the pan to keep the burgers from sticking and to add some extra flavor.
3. Form the Burger Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a loose ball and season each ball with salt and pepper. Don’t worry about making them perfect—they’re going to be smashed!
4. Smash the Burgers:
Place the beef balls in the hot skillet and immediately smash each one down flat with a spatula to create a thin patty. Make sure they’re good and flat for that crispy texture! Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to turn brown and crispy.
5. Flip and Add Cheese (Optional):
Carefully flip the patties over. If you’re using cheese, place a slice on top of each patty right after flipping. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese melts and the burgers are cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, warm up the tortillas. You can do this either on a clean skillet or in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until they’re soft and pliable.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Spread some of that delicious special sauce on each tortilla. Place one of the smash burger patties on top, then add the shredded lettuce and diced onions for crunch and freshness.
8. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your smash burger tacos right away! They’re best eaten fresh while the burgers are warm and the cheese is melty. Feel free to serve extra sauce on the side for some added flavor!
These smash burger tacos combine the great tastes of a burger with the fun of tacos—perfect for a quick dinner the whole family will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just be mindful that these meats can dry out more quickly, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or cooking them at a slightly lower temperature to keep them juicy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For the best texture, it’s recommended to keep the ingredients separate (e.g., store the patties, tortillas, and toppings individually) and assemble fresh tacos when you’re ready to eat.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the special sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This will help the flavors meld together nicely. Just give it a stir before using it on your tacos!
What Are Some Good Toppings for These Tacos?
Feel free to get creative! Beyond lettuce and onions, consider adding diced tomatoes, pickles, jalapeños, or even avocado. For an extra kick, try adding some hot sauce or fresh cilantro!
