Smash Burger Tacos bring together the best of both worlds! They feature juicy, crispy beef patties tucked inside soft taco shells, topped with cheese, lettuce, and your favorite sauce.
Who knew tacos could be so fun and tasty? I love how you can switch up the toppings every time. You might just find yourself craving them more than regular burgers! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for burgers as it balances tenderness and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but they won’t be as juicy.
Tortillas: You can choose corn or flour tortillas based on your preference. Corn offers a nice texture while flour is soft and chewy. If you have dietary needs, try using gluten-free tortillas or lettuce wraps instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great flavor. You might also consider Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little heat. Vegan cheese can be a good substitute for a dairy-free option.
Sriracha: This adds a spicy kick. If you’re not into spice, consider using mayo alone or a milder sauce like barbecue sauce. For a homemade touch, whip up a quick hot sauce with cayenne and vinegar.
How Do You Get Crispy Edges on Your Burger Patties?
The key to that delicious crispy edge is in the smashing technique. Make sure your skillet is hot enough. When you add the beef, spread it flat and press it down firmly. This not only increases surface area for that crust but also cooks the beef quickly—just follow these steps:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high. It should feel hot to the touch.
- Spread the beef in the pan, then smash it down with a spatula or burger press.
- Allow it to cook undisturbed to form that crust for about 3-4 minutes, then flip it carefully.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes—don’t rush this process!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha or any preferred hot sauce
- Pickle slices (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 5 minutes preparing the sauce and cooking the beef, and the rest of the time will be for warming the tortillas and assembling the tacos. It’s quick, fun, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha together. You can adjust the amount of sriracha based on how spicy you like it. Once mixed, set it aside for later!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the tablespoon of cooking oil. When the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Season the meat with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Smash the Burgers:
While the beef cooks, take a spatula or a burger press and press down on the beef to create thin patties. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until the edges are nicely crispy, then flip the patties and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are fully cooked through.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
In another skillet, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side so they become soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and eat!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
On each warm tortilla, lay down a smashed burger patty. Top it off with some shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of your spicy mayo. If you like pickles, add a few slices on top for extra flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig into these tasty tacos while they’re hot! You can add extra sauce or toppings if you wish, and they’re perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your delicious Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitution for a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey has less fat than beef, so you may want to add a little olive oil to the pan while cooking to prevent drying out. You can also use turkey that is around 85/15 for a better flavor and moisture balance.
What if I Don’t Have Sriracha?
No worries! If you don’t have sriracha, you can substitute it with any hot sauce you prefer, like Frank’s RedHot or even a homemade sauce using chili powder, garlic powder, and a touch of vinegar. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference!
How Can I Make These Tacos Gluten-Free?
To make these tacos gluten-free, simply swap out regular flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. Many brands offer great alternatives that taste delicious and hold up well when filled. Just be sure to check the packaging for any additional adjustments regarding cooking or storing.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
For any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cooked beef can be stored for up to 3 days, while the tortillas should be kept in a sealed bag. Reheat the beef gently on the stove and warm the tortillas again before serving to enjoy them fresh!
