Get ready for a fun twist on taco night with these smash burger tacos! It’s all about juicy beef patties packed into crispy taco shells, topped with your favorite goodies.
I love how easy these are to whip up, plus who doesn’t enjoy a burger and taco combo? Just load them up with cheese, lettuce, and a dollop of salsa—yum! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend is perfect for flavor and juiciness, but you can use leaner beef if you’re watching fat intake. Ground turkey or chicken can also work, but they may cook differently.
Tortillas: Small flour or corn tortillas are best for tacos. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas. Personal preference? I prefer flour for their softness.
American Cheese: While American melts beautifully, you could try cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that not all cheeses melt the same!
Condiments: The sauce is easy to customize! Try Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version, or add hot sauce for a kick. BBQ sauce is optional, but it’s a fun touch!
How Do You Smash the Patties Perfectly?
Smashing the patties is the key to getting that crispy edge! Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your griddle or skillet well—it should be hot enough that the patties sizzle when you put them on.
- Form the beef into balls and place them on the skillet. Use a heavy spatula to press down firmly to achieve a thin patty. The pressure helps create that nice crust.
- Season liberally with salt and pepper right after smashing. Let them cook without moving them for 3-4 minutes to develop that crispy edge.
Remember, don’t overcrowd the pan—give the patties some space for even cooking!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total, with about 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking and assembling the tacos. Get ready for a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and BBQ sauce if you’re using it. Stir well until combined, and set the sauce aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Preheat the Griddle or Pan:
Heat a griddle or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil to the surface so that the patties won’t stick when cooking.
3. Form and Smash the Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, making each about 4 ounces. Roll each portion into a ball and place them on the hot griddle. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash each ball down gently until it flattens into a thin patty. Don’t forget to season the patties with salt and pepper! Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until the edges are crispy.
4. Add Cheese:
Flip each patty over and place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked all the way through.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In another pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. You want them to be pliable but not crispy.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a tortilla and place a piece of the cheese-topped burger right in the center. Top it off with some shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and a drizzle of the prepared sauce. Yum!
7. Serve:
Fold the tortillas over the fillings to create your tacos. Serve them immediately with extra sauce on the side if you like. Enjoy your tasty Original Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just be aware that turkey or chicken tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil or cooking oil to maintain moisture. Season well with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance! Just mix the mayo, ketchup, mustard, and BBQ sauce (if using) in a container and refrigerate. Give it a good stir before serving—it keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge!
How to Keep Leftover Patties and Tacos?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For tacos, it’s best to keep the components separate to maintain freshness. Refrigerate the patties, tortillas, and toppings separately, and assemble just before serving. Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
What If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem! While American cheese is the classic choice for its meltability, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just ensure they melt well, especially if you’re flipping the patties to top them with cheese!
