These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your favorite burger. Picture juicy beef patties, melted cheese, all wrapped in soft taco shells. Yum!
Who knew tacos could pack this kind of burger flavor? I love topping mine with fresh lettuce and tangy sauce for that extra crunch. Perfect for a quick dinner that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is great for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, go for a 90/10 blend, but expect a slightly drier burger. Ground turkey or chicken also works if you want a lighter option.
Tortillas: Using small corn tortillas gives an authentic flavor, but if you’re not a fan, flour tortillas are a good substitute. They’re softer and easier to handle. Just make sure they’re warmed up to avoid tearing.
Cheddar Cheese: This adds great flavor, but feel free to switch it out for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a fun twist. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese melted on top.
Condiments: The mayo, ketchup, and mustard mix is a tasty combo! If you’re looking to reduce calories, swap regular mayo for light mayo or Greek yogurt. Add hot sauce for an extra kick if you like some heat!
How Do I Get the Patties Crispy and Flavorful?
The key to delicious smash burgers is in the cooking technique. After mixing the beef with seasonings, avoid overworking it. This helps keep the burgers tender and flavorful. Here’s how to get that perfect crispy edge:
- Heat the skillet over medium-high and let it get really hot before adding the burgers.
- When placing the meat balls in the skillet, smash them quickly to form thin patties. The hot pan will create that great sear you want.
- Don’t flip them too soon! Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they have a nice brown crust before flipping.
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup lettuce, shredded
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Pickles, sliced (optional)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- Optional hot sauce or other condiments for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. With just 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix it all together. Be careful not to overwork the meat; you want it just combined so it stays juicy and tender.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil to the pan to prevent the burgers from sticking. You want it hot and ready for the beef patties!
3. Form and Smash the Patties:
Divide the meat mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a loose ball—no need to pack it tightly! Place each ball onto the hot skillet and use a spatula to smash it down into a thin patty. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges start to get crispy and the bottom is browned. Flip the patty carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked through.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, take another skillet and warm the tortillas until they are soft and pliable. This will make them easier to fold and delicious to eat!
5. Assemble Your Tacos:
To put everything together, place a beef patty in the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by a handful of shredded lettuce. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard, then drizzle this mixture over the top.
6. Add Final Touches:
If you like pickles, add some slices on top for that extra crunch! You can also include any other condiments or hot sauce if you want a little kick.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Warm up your tacos for a moment if needed, then serve them right away and enjoy your tasty Easy Smash Burger Tacos! They’re perfect for a fun meal any night of the week!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
You can use leaner ground beef, but keep in mind that it may result in drier tacos. If you choose lean beef, consider adding a little extra oil to the skillet when cooking to help retain moisture and enhance flavor.
How to Warm Tortillas Without a Skillet?
If you don’t want to use a skillet, you can warm tortillas in the microwave! Wrap a few tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until soft. Just be cautious not to overdo it; otherwise, they can get chewy.
Can I Make These Tacos in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the burger patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve. If you’ve assembled the tacos, store the patties and toppings separately to keep everything fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover components in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the patties, tortillas, and toppings separated to maintain their texture. Taco patties will last for about 3 days, while tortillas should be eaten within a couple of days for the best taste!
