Get ready for a tasty twist with Smash Burger Tacos! These delightful treats combine juicy burger patties wrapped in soft tortillas, topped with your favorite fixings.
Honestly, who can resist this combo? It’s like a party in your mouth! I love piling on the cheese and salsa for that extra yum factor. Give it a try, and thank me later! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for its juicy flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, 90/10 works too, but keep an eye on the cooking time since it can dry out quickly.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are great for this recipe, but you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer bite. Just remember to warm them properly for the best texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a delicious flavor. You could swap it for Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend if you want a different taste or a little bit of spice.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for healthier options, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream and mayonnaise for a creamy texture with a boost of protein.
Pickle Juice: This ingredient adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have it on hand, consider using apple cider vinegar for a similar effect.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Smash Burger Patties?
The key to making great smash burger patties is in the smashing technique! When you create the patties, use soft pressure to flatten them thin, which makes them crispy on the edges while keeping a juicy center. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the beef; this ensures a nice sear.
- Use a spatula to smash the beef down firmly, but don’t squish it too much. You want it thin!
- Season with salt and pepper right after smashing; it helps enhance the flavor as they cook.
- Don’t flip them too soon; let them cook until browned on one side to capture maximum flavor.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Dill pickle slices, for garnish
- Cooking oil, for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 2 tbsp pickle juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a bit of time mixing the sauce, cooking the burger patties, and warming the tortillas. Once everything is ready, assembly is quick and easy, just like enjoying these delicious tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice until well combined. This sauce adds a creamy and tangy flavor that goes perfectly with the tacos. Set it aside for later use.
2. Cook the Burger Patties:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a little cooking oil to the pan. Take a handful of ground beef (about 2 ounces), form it into a loose ball, and place it in the skillet. Using a spatula, smash the ball down to create a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the patty for about 2-3 minutes until it’s browned on one side, then flip it over. Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and allow it to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the other side is browned and the cheese is melted.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, grab another skillet and heat the corn tortillas over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and eat!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place a cooked smash burger patty on each warm tortilla. Add a handful of shredded lettuce on top and a generous dollop of the prepared sauce. Don’t forget to add dill pickle slices for that extra crunch and flavor!
5. Serve:
Fold the tacos in half and serve them immediately while they’re warm. If you like, you can add extra pickles on the side for garnish. Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos—they’re a tasty twist on the classic burger!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for an equally tasty option. Just keep in mind that the fat content may vary, which can affect cooking times and flavor.
How to Keep the Tacos from Getting Soggy?
To prevent soggy tacos, make sure to drain any excess grease from the burger patties after cooking. Also, warming the tortillas in a dry skillet without any oil can help maintain their texture. Serve them immediately after assembling to keep everything fresh!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate slightly while stored.
How to Store Leftover Taco Ingredients?
For storing leftovers, keep the taco components separately. Ground beef patties can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap any unused tortillas in plastic wrap or foil to keep fresh. To reheat the patties, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave, and reheat the tortillas in a dry pan for that fresh texture.
