These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic burgers! They have juicy beef patties cooked quickly, topped with melted cheese, and wrapped in soft tortillas. Yum!
Who knew tacos could be so cheesy and delicious? I love how easy they are to whip up for a casual dinner or game night. Just add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for burgers due to its balance of flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, go for 90/10, but it might be less juicy. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, but the flavor will differ.
Corn Tortillas: I love using small corn tortillas for that authentic taco feel. If you can’t find corn, flour tortillas work too, but they won’t have the same crunch. You can also use lettuce leaves for a low-carb approach!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a great melter and has a nice flavor. If you like a bit of kick, try pepper jack. For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese shreds can also work, although melting might not be as good.
Condiments: The mayo, ketchup, and mustard blend creates a tangy topping. If you’re looking for healthier choices, Greek yogurt can replace mayo. You can also add hot sauce or sriracha for spice!
How Do I Get a Perfect Smash Burger Patty?
Smashing the burger is crucial for getting that crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the meat. This helps to sear the burger quickly.
- Use a sturdy spatula or a burger press. Put the meat on the skillet and push down firmly to create a thin patty.
- Don’t move it around! Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes so it can develop a crust.
- Flip it carefully. Adding shredded cheese right after flipping gives you melty goodness.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time mixing the sauce, cooking the patties, and assembling the tacos, but it all comes together quickly for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by mixing the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard together in a small bowl. Stir well until everything is combined. Set this yummy sauce aside for later!
2. Cook the Burgers:
Get your large skillet or griddle ready by preheating it over medium-high heat. If you like, you can drizzle a thin layer of oil into the skillet to help with cooking.
3. Shape and Smash the Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions—about 2 ounces each. When your skillet is hot, place one portion of the meat down and use a spatula to smash it into a thin patty. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until you see a nice crust forming on the bottom.
4. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patty over and add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the cheese melt into that delicious burger. Yum!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers finish cooking, warm your corn tortillas either on another skillet or directly over a flame until they’re soft and pliable. This should take about 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place one or two of your smash burger patties in the center of each tortilla. Add a handful of shredded lettuce, some diced onions, and a drizzle of that tasty sauce you made earlier.
7. Serve:
Enjoy these warm tacos as soon as you’ve assembled them! If you like, serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground poultry is usually leaner, so you might want to add a little oil or a small amount of butter to the skillet to help prevent drying out while cooking.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No worries! If you don’t have corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas instead. They may be a bit softer, but they’ll still hold everything together nicely. Just warm them slightly before assembling the tacos to make them more pliable.
How Can I Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
To store leftovers, wrap the assembled tacos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through; this will help maintain the taco’s crispiness.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance! Just mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will save you time on taco night!
