These Original Smash Burger Tacos combine two favorites in one tasty bite! Picture juicy beef patties, tucked inside soft tortillas, topped with melty cheese and fresh toppings.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a taco that packs a burger punch? I like to add some crunchy lettuce and pickles for that perfect crunch. It’s like a fiesta and BBQ rolled into one! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they might be less flavorful. For a vegetarian twist, use a plant-based burger substitute.
Flour Tortillas: Small flour tortillas offer a nice, soft base for the tacos. If gluten is a concern, you could use corn tortillas. They’re a bit more fragile but have great flavor.
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, giving that classic burger taste. If you prefer something stronger, opt for cheddar or pepper jack for a little kick. Just slice them thinly to melt well.
Iceberg Lettuce: I love using crispy iceberg for a refreshing crunch. If you want to mix it up, try romaine or even coleslaw for a bit more texture.
Mayonnaise: This serves as a creamy base for the sauce. You can replace it with Greek yogurt for a healthier choice, or even vegan mayo if you’re avoiding eggs.
How Do I Properly Smash the Burger Patties?
Smashing the burgers is critical to getting that crispy, caramelized edge. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with evenly shaped balls of beef. Overworking the meat can make it tough.
- Use a heavy spatula or a burger press to smash down each ball quickly after placing it on the hot griddle.
- Don’t press too hard—you want them thin, but avoid squishing all the juices out. A nice flat patty should cook perfectly!
- Season right after smashing to enhance the flavor as they cook.
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for better flavor)
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a quick meal. From mixing the sauce to assembling the tacos, you’ll have these tasty tacos on your table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well blended and set this tasty sauce aside for later.
2. Shape the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal parts. With gentle hands, shape each piece into a ball. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make it tough.
3. Heat the Griddle or Skillet:
Place a large griddle or skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil to the pan to keep the beef from sticking when cooking.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Once the pan is hot, place your beef balls on the surface. Use a spatula to smash each ball down into a flat patty about 1/2 inch thick. Season the patties with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are nicely browned on one side.
5. Add Cheese:
Flip each patty over so the browned side is up. Quickly place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate pan, take the flour tortillas and warm them for a few seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to assemble! On each warm tortilla, place a cheesy smashed beef patty. Top it with shredded lettuce and sliced pickles. Finish with a generous drizzle of your prepared sauce.
8. Serve:
Carefully fold the tortillas over to close the tacos and serve them hot. Enjoy these flavorful smash burger tacos with friends or family!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
While you can use leaner ground beef, such as 90/10 or 93/7, it may result in drier patties. For the best flavor and juiciness, it’s recommended to stick with an 80/20 blend. If using lean beef, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to assist with moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Flour Tortillas?
Don’t worry! You can use corn tortillas as a gluten-free alternative, but they may need extra warmth to prevent breaking. Alternatively, consider using burger buns if you prefer a traditional burger experience instead of tacos!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, and wrap the tortillas in foil to keep them soft. Add fresh toppings as needed for extra flavor!
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together nicely for a zestier taste!
