These fun Smash Burger Tacos bring together the best of two worlds! Juicy beef patties meet tasty taco shells, making this dish a must-try.
It’s like having a burger party in a taco! I love topping mine with cheese, lettuce, and a little ketchup. Who knew tacos could be this exciting? 🌮🍔
With quick prep and cooking, I can whip these up for a weeknight dinner that feels special. Everyone loves eating them, and they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A good choice is 80/20 beef for its balance of fat and flavor. If you’re looking for lighter options, consider ground turkey or chicken, though you might miss that juicy flavor.
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are great for folding, but corn tortillas add a nice texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn or flour alternatives at the store.
American Cheese: This cheese melts perfectly for those classic burger vibes. If you’re aiming for less processed options, try sharp cheddar or even pepper jack for some kick.
Shredded Lettuce: Iceberg is popular for crunch, but feel free to mix it up with romaine or even cabbage. It adds nice color and flavor variations!
How Do I Get the Perfect Smashed Patty?
Creating that crispy, flavorful smashed burger patty is key to these tacos. Follow these steps for a delicious result:
- Preheat your griddle well; this ensures a good sear. Use medium-high heat.
- Form the beef into balls and smash them promptly once they’re on the griddle. This helps retain juices.
- Season immediately with salt and pepper to enhance the beef’s flavor.
- Cook until the edges are crispy, then flip and add cheese right away—this helps it melt beautifully.
Take your time with each step to ensure that each patty is perfectly cooked and flavorful! Enjoy crafting those smash burger tacos.
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to create. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and forming the patties, and then around 15-20 minutes cooking and assembling the tacos. It’s quick, easy, and super delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating a griddle or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil to the surface to prevent sticking. While the griddle is heating, take your ground beef and form it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Set these aside for now.
2. Cooking the Patties:
Once the griddle is hot, place one beef ball on the surface. Using a spatula or a burger press, smash it down firmly to create a thin patty. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. Cook the patty for about 2-3 minutes until it gets crispy and browned. Then, flip the patty over and place a slice of American cheese on top. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted.
3. Warm the Tortillas and Assemble:
While your patties are cooking, warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or on the grill until they are nice and pliable. Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Grab a warm tortilla and place a cheesy smashed burger patty in the center. Top it with shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and drizzle your special sauce made by mixing the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce (if you’re using it).
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your smash burger tacos immediately while they’re hot, and enjoy the delicious layers of flavors! These tacos are sure to be a hit, so dig in and savor every bite.
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef Instead of 80/20?
While you can use lean ground beef, the 80/20 blend provides the best flavor and juiciness for these tacos. If you use something leaner, consider adding a little cooking oil to the meat to keep it moist when cooking.
How Do I Make These Tacos Dairy-Free?
To make your smash burger tacos dairy-free, simply substitute the American cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely. You can also include additional toppings like avocado or dairy-free sour cream for added richness.
Can I Prepare the Patties in Advance?
Yes! You can form the beef balls in advance and refrigerate them. Just be sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to cook, take them out of the fridge about 15 minutes beforehand to bring them up to room temperature for more even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the patties on a skillet over low heat and warm the tortillas separately. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh!
