These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites! Juicy beef patties are smashed and cooked quickly, then tucked in soft tortillas with all your favorite toppings.
Who knew tacos could be this hearty? I love piling on fresh toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. It’s a tasty way to mix things up for taco night! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for that juicy flavor. If you need a leaner option, 85/15 works too. For a lighter choice, consider ground turkey or chicken, but they can cook differently, so keep an eye on them.
Corn Tortillas: Use small corn tortillas for the best taco experience. Flour tortillas can be used as a substitute, but they have a different texture. Whole wheat tortillas are also a good option if you’re looking for a healthier choice.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for a robust flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an added kick. Vegan cheese options are available for those avoiding dairy.
Burger Sauce or Ranch: Store-bought sauces save time, but homemade versions can be tastier. Blend mayo, ketchup, and a dash of mustard for a quick burger sauce. A yogurt-based ranch can work too if you’re after a lighter option!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Crisp Smash Burger Patties?
Getting that crispy edge on your patties is key for flavor! Here are some tips to ensure your smash burgers turn out just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the patties. This helps get that golden-brown color quickly!
- Don’t be shy about smashing! Use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly and evenly.
- Cook for 3 minutes on one side, don’t flip too soon. Let the juices stay in!
- When you add cheese, cover the skillet for a minute; it helps the cheese melt perfectly on top.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup burger sauce or creamy ranch dressing (for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, pickles, jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. In no time, you’ll have delicious Smash Burger Tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tortillas:
Start by warming the corn tortillas. Place them in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. You’ll want them to be warm and soft—just a minute or so on each side will do. Once warmed, set them aside on a plate.
2. Form the Patties:
Next, take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal balls, about 2 ounces each. Sprinkle each ball with a bit of salt and pepper for flavor. This will be the base of your tasty toppings!
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 4 of the beef balls to the skillet. Use a spatula to smash each ball down into a thin patty. Let them cook for about 3 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and brown.
4. Add Cheese:
When the patties are ready to flip, turn them over and immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully.
5. Repeat Cooking:
Now, repeat the smashing and cooking process with the remaining beef balls. If the skillet seems dry, feel free to add more oil as needed to keep things sizzling!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Once all your patties are cooked, it’s time to assemble your delicious tacos! Take a warmed tortilla and place 1 or 2 of the cheesy smash burger patties on it. Top them off with some shredded lettuce, diced onions, and any other toppings you love, like tomatoes, pickles, or jalapeños.
7. Drizzle Sauce:
Finish your tacos by drizzling some burger sauce or creamy ranch dressing over the top. This adds the perfect finishing touch!
8. Serve:
Serve your Smash Burger Tacos warm and enjoy! You can place extra sauce and any remaining toppings on the side for everyone to customize their tacos. Happy eating!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey can be a great substitute, but keep in mind that it may not have the same fat content, which can affect juiciness. Opt for a ground turkey with higher fat content if possible (like 93/7) for the best flavor and texture. Cook the patties as instructed, but check for doneness a minute or two earlier since turkey cooks faster.
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you’d like a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños directly into the beef mixture while forming the patties. You can also top the tacos with sliced pickled jalapeños. A spicy burger sauce or hot sauce drizzled on top will also amp up the heat!
What Are The Best Ways to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
To store leftovers, wrap the filled tacos tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to do so in the oven for even heating or on the stovetop to maintain the crunchiness of the tortillas.
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas can be used if you prefer a softer, chewier texture. Just warm them gently in the skillet as you would the corn ones. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious!
