These Original Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your favorite burger! They combine juicy beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings all wrapped in a soft tortilla.
Who knew tacos could be this delicious? I love how easy they are to make—just smash the beef and load ’em up! Perfect for taco night or anytime you’re craving something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal for juicy flavor, but you can use leaner beef if preferred. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works too, though they may not be as juicy.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are perfect for these tacos, but you could swap them for corn tortillas if you want a gluten-free option. Just ensure they’re warmed to make them pliable.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness. If you’re looking for something different, swap in Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or Pepper Jack for a little heat!
Pickles: Sliced pickles add crunch and tang. If you’re not a fan, consider using jalapeños for heat or diced tomatoes for freshness.
Mayonnaise-Ketchup-Mustard Sauce: This sauce is customizable! Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or add a bit of hot sauce for a kick.
How Do I Smash the Patties for the Best Texture?
Smashing the patties well is key to achieving that delicious, crispy edge that makes smash burgers special. Here’s how to do it:
- Once your beef balls are in the skillet, use a heavy spatula to press down firmly. Aim for a very thin patty for even cooking.
- Season generously with salt and pepper while they’re cooking. It enhances the flavor!
- Don’t move them around too much; let them sear for that nice brown crust.
Remember, be gentle but assertive when smashing—this gives your burgers that signature texture!
How to Make Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 4 small flour tortillas
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
Others:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the patties, and then just a few minutes to assemble the tacos. It’s a quick and tasty meal idea!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard together until well blended. This will be your tasty sauce for the tacos. Set it aside for later.
2. Shape the Patties:
Take your ground beef and divide it into four equal pieces, about 4 ounces each. Roll each piece into a ball. These will become your beef patties!
3. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Place a griddle or frying pan on the stove and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil to the pan to prevent sticking and help get a nice sear on your patties.
4. Cook the Patties:
Once the pan is hot, place the beef balls onto it. Using a spatula, press down on each ball to smash it into a thin patty. Season generously with salt and pepper for flavor. Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes until they are browned on the bottom.
5. Add Cheese:
After flipping the patties, immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cook for about another minute, allowing the cheese to melt all over the delicious burger patty.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burgers are cooking, take a moment to warm the flour tortillas. Place them on another section of the griddle for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable and warm.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place a cheesy burger patty on each warmed tortilla. Top them with shredded lettuce and sliced pickles. Drizzle your yummy sauce over everything.
8. Serve:
Carefully fold the tortillas around the juicy fillings. Serve them immediately while they’re warm and enjoy your deliciously messy Original Smash Burger Tacos! Yum!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef! Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so it might not have the same juicy flavor, but it will work well. You may want to add a bit more oil to the pan to keep them moist while cooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian option, try using a plant-based ground meat substitute, such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger. You can follow the same cooking instructions, just adjust the cooking time according to the product’s packaging to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to a week, making it a convenient time-saver for your taco night!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat the components separately for the best texture—warm the patties in a skillet and the tortillas briefly in a microwave or on a pan.
