These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic tacos! Juicy, smashed beef patties are tucked inside soft tortillas, topped with melted cheese, and piled high with your favorite toppings.
Honestly, who can resist a burger in taco form? I love how easy they are to make for a quick dinner. Just cook the patties, load up the toppings, and enjoy this tasty mashup!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives great flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use 90/10 ground beef. Just know it may be less juicy!
Corn Tortillas: Small ones work best for these tacos. If you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas make a tasty substitute. They are softer, but not quite the same authentic flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor. If you’re looking for a change, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat.
Burger Sauce: Store-bought is a quick option, but homemade sauce (like mayo, ketchup, and mustard mix) tailors it to your taste. Add a little pickle relish for extra tang!
Onion: I prefer white onions for their crispness. However, diced red onions bring a bit of sweetness and color! You could even skip onions altogether, if desired.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Smash Burger Patties?
The key to getting those crispy edges on your smash patties is all in the smashing technique! When you flatten the beef, it increases the surface area for that delightful crust.
- First, heat your skillet or griddle well before adding oil. A hot surface helps in achieving that crispy texture.
- Once the meatballs are in the skillet, use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly. Keep it flat, but not too aggressive to avoid squeezing out the juices.
- Cook them without moving for 2-3 minutes. This gives the bottom time to brown; flipping too early can prevent that nice crust from forming.
- Don’t forget to add cheese during the last minute! This melts it beautifully, complementing the juicy meat underneath.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes preparing the beef, frying the patties, warming the tortillas, and assembling your delicious tacos. It’s a quick and fun recipe to whip up for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by seasoning your ground beef with some salt and pepper in a bowl. Make sure to mix it well. Then, divide the beef into 8 equal portions and roll them into balls. This will be the base for your smash burgers!
2. Cook the Patties:
Next, grab a skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a splash of cooking oil so the patties don’t stick. Once the oil is hot, place your meatballs on the skillet and use a spatula to smash them down into thin patties. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until browned on one side, then flip them over and cook for another 2 minutes. During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each patty so it melts perfectly.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, take another skillet and lightly toast your corn tortillas. Heat them over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until they are warm and pliable. This step makes them extra delicious and easy to fill!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place 1-2 of your cooked smash burger patties on each warm tortilla. Top them off with some shredded lettuce, diced onion, and a drizzle of burger sauce. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!
5. Serve:
Enjoy your smash burger tacos while they are hot! Serve them with extra burger sauce on the side for dipping, and savor each delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option, but you may want to add a splash of olive oil or a bit of seasoning to enhance the flavor. Just be mindful that it may cook slightly faster than beef, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you like a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the ground beef before cooking. You can also use a spicy burger sauce or, for an extra layer of heat, add sliced hot peppers as a topping!
Can I Make the Patties in Advance?
Yes! You can form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet and briefly toast the tortillas in a separate pan to bring back their texture. Add fresh toppings if desired!
