These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic burgers! Imagine juicy beef patties tucked inside crunchy taco shells, topped with tasty cheese, and your favorite fixings.
They are super easy to make and perfect for a casual dinner or game night. I love piling on lettuce and salsa for a little crunch. Who doesn’t want a burger and taco in one bite? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect mix of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 85/15 works too. For even healthier alternatives, you could use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind the flavor will be milder.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are essential for that authentic taco feel. If corn tortillas aren’t available, you can substitute with flour tortillas, though they will change the texture slightly. Just make sure to warm them up to avoid breaking.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a delicious melty goodness. If you want a twist, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. A dairy-free cheese option can work well for those avoiding dairy.
Thousand Island Dressing: This is a key flavor component. If you want a healthy twist, mix Greek yogurt with ketchup and relish as a lighter alternative. Or swap it for your favorite burger sauce for different flavors.
How Do You Cook Corn Tortillas Without Them Breaking?
Warming your corn tortillas properly is crucial to avoid breaking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. It’s important not to let it get too hot, which can cause burning.
- Add a light spray or brush of oil to the skillet for a non-stick surface.
- Cook each side of the tortilla for about 30 seconds until it’s warm and soft. Don’t overdo it!
- Stack the warmed tortillas on a plate and cover them with a clean towel to keep them warm and prevent drying out.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing (or burger sauce of your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- Optional: sliced pickles, jalapeños, or other taco toppings
For The Tacos:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time, making it a quick and tasty meal. You’ll be assembling the burgers and tacos in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by placing the ground beef in a bowl and seasoning it with salt and pepper. Next, divide the meat into 4 equal portions, approximately 4 ounces each. Gently shape each portion into a loose ball, being careful not to compact the meat too tightly. This will help create nice, juicy patties later.
2. Cook the Tortillas:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once it’s hot, give it a light spray or brush with cooking oil. Warm the corn tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, until they are pliable. Once done, set them aside on a plate.
3. Smash the Burgers:
Raise the heat on your skillet to high. If needed, add a little oil to the pan. Place two of the beef balls onto the skillet, making sure to space them apart. With a sturdy spatula, press down firmly on each ball to flatten it into a patty. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until they have a crispy crust.
4. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over and right away sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another minute until the cheese has melted and the burgers are cooked all the way through.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! On each warmed tortilla, place one of the smash burger patties with the melted cheese. Top it off with shredded lettuce, diced onion, and any optional toppings you like.
6. Drizzle Sauce:
To finish it off, drizzle the Thousand Island dressing over the tasty taco filling for that perfect burger flavor.
7. Serve:
Fold the tortillas around the delicious filling and serve right away. You can also offer extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Of course! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Keep in mind that these meats can be more moist, so you may want to adjust the cooking time to ensure they fully cook without becoming dry. You can also add a bit of seasoning to enhance the flavor, as turkey and chicken have a milder taste compared to beef.
What Can I Substitute for Thousand Island Dressing?
If you don’t have Thousand Island dressing on hand, you could use ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a homemade mix of mayonnaise and ketchup combined with a dash of pickle juice. Adjust the proportions to taste, and feel free to add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, keep the components separate if possible. Place the tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the burger patties in a skillet or microwave, and assemble the tacos fresh before serving to keep the tortillas from getting soggy.
Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you love a kick, feel free to add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the tacos! You can also mix some chopped chili into the beef before cooking, or use a spicy cheese blend. Just remember to taste as you go to find the right level of heat for you!
