These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites! Juicy beef patties are smashed into delicious taco shells and topped with all your favorite burger extras.
I love how these tacos bring the best of both worlds together. Perfect for a quick dinner, and trust me, they’re a huge hit with everyone at the table! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10, but keep in mind the tacos may be a bit drier.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a delicious texture but you could use flour tortillas if you prefer. Just remember they’ll be softer and a bit different in taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a great melting cheese, but feel free to swap it out for Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for variety. I love the sharpness of aged cheddar, which adds extra flavor!
Iceberg Lettuce: While iceberg has that nice crunch, you can substitute it with romaine or even shredded cabbage for a different flavor profile.
Onion: I use white onion for its mild flavor, but you could switch to red onion for a little sweetness or green onions for a fresh taste.
Burger Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own sauce with mayo, ketchup, and pickles for a personal touch!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Smash Burgers?
Smashing the patties is key to achieving that crispy texture! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the beef. This helps caramelize the outside quickly.
- Use a strong spatula to press down firmly on the beef ball, flattening it to about 1/4-inch thick. The more surface area that’s exposed to the heat, the better the crust!
- Don’t flip too soon! Allow the burger to cook until you see juices starting to pool on top, then flip it over.
- Cover the skillet with a lid while adding cheese. This helps it melt quickly and evenly.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup white onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making a total of around 30 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes shaping and cooking the beef, warming the tortillas, and assembling your tasty tacos. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smash Burgers:
Start by heating a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add a little cooking oil to coat the bottom. Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal balls. Make sure they’re all about the same size for even cooking!
2. Smash the Patties:
Place one ball of ground beef onto the hot skillet. Using a spatula, press down firmly to smash it flat. Don’t be shy! Season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes until it’s nicely browned, then flip it over and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Melt the Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of each smashed patty. Cover the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt perfectly.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the cheese is melting, grab another skillet and warm the corn tortillas. Place them on medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they become soft and pliable. This will make it easy to fold the tacos!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Take two cheese-smothered smash burger patties and place them on each warmed tortilla. Top with some shredded lettuce, diced onion, and a nice drizzle of burger sauce. Looks yummy already, right?
6. Serve:
Your smash burger tacos are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm with extra burger sauce on the side, if you like. Happy eating!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, but keep in mind that leaner meats might not have as much fat, which can affect the flavor and juiciness. Consider adding a bit of olive oil to maintain moisture.
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
For leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. The cooked patties and toppings can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat patties in a skillet before assembling the tacos for the best texture.
Can I Make the Burger Sauce at Home?
Yes! A simple homemade burger sauce can be made by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Feel free to adjust the ratios to your taste, and add diced pickles or a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor!
What Can I Serve with Smash Burger Tacos?
These tacos are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a side of nachos, guacamole, or a simple salad for a complete meal. They also go great with a refreshing drink like a margarita or iced tea!
