These Easy Original Smash Burger Tacos combine the fun of tacos with the juicy goodness of burger patties. You get crispy edges and tasty toppings all wrapped up in a soft tortilla!
Let’s be real—who doesn’t love a good burger? Now, picture that in taco form! I like to pile on fresh toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa for an extra kick. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juiciness and great flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but they may not be as juicy.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to work with, but corn tortillas give a nice texture. If you’re gluten-free, opt for corn tortillas or any gluten-free alternative.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully, but feel free to substitute with cheddar, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese if needed. Just make sure it melts well!
Pickles: Dill pickles add that nice tang. You can use sweet pickles if you prefer, or substitute with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Mayonnaise Mixture: If you don’t like mayonnaise, try Greek yogurt or sour cream for the sauce. You can also use BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash Burger Patty?
Getting that perfect smash burger patty with crispy edges is all about technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated to medium-high heat; this helps create that sear.
- When you place the beef ball in the pan, smash it down quickly. The heat should be high enough to create a nice crust.
- Don’t handle the beef too much; forming it too tightly can make it tough. Keep it loose!
- Season the patty right after smashing for great flavor.
- Cook until the edges are crispy, and don’t skip melting the cheese right after flipping.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious smash burgers every time, with that wonderful texture and taste that everyone loves!
Easy Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4-6 small soft taco-sized tortillas (flour or corn)
- 4 slices American cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg works well)
- 8-10 slices dill pickles
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: 1 teaspoon hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 5-10 minutes preparing the sauce and dividing the beef, and then about 15 minutes cooking and assembling the tacos. It’s a quick, fun meal that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and hot sauce or cayenne if you’re feeling spicy. Stir everything until it’s well combined, then refrigerate it while you get everything else ready!
2. Divide the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 4-6 equal portions (about 3-4 ounces each). Gently form each portion into a loose ball. Be careful not to overpack the beef; you want to keep it light and fluffy!
3. Heat the Pan or Griddle:
Next, set a heavy skillet, cast iron pan, or griddle over medium-high heat. Let it heat up nicely but be careful not to let it start smoking.
4. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Once your pan is hot, place a beef ball onto the surface. Quickly, using a sturdy spatula or burger press, smash the beef ball down into a thin patty, about ¼ inch thick. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Cook the patty for about 2 minutes until the edges are dark and crispy. Then flip the patty over, place a slice of cheese on top, and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is fully cooked.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While you’re cooking the patties, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they’re soft and pliable. This keeps them nice and easy to fold around the fillings!
6. Assemble the Smash Burger Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Lay a warm tortilla flat on your plate. Place the cheesy smash burger patty right in the center. Add some slices of dill pickle, a handful of shredded lettuce, and drizzle your prepared sauce generously over the top.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
It’s time to dig in! Serve these delicious tacos immediately while they’re warm and enjoy the beautiful fusion of burger and taco flavors. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings!
This recipe makes 4-6 smash burger tacos, depending on how big you make each filling. Enjoy a fun and tasty twist on your favorite classic!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef, but keep in mind that it may not be as juicy and flavorful. The 80/20 blend is recommended for a balance of taste and moisture. If using turkey or chicken, consider adding a little oil or cheese to retain some juiciness.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute American cheese with cheese that melts well, like cheddar, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just ensure that whatever cheese you use has good melting properties for the best results!
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you like spice, feel free to add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the tacos. You can also increase the amount of hot sauce in the mayonnaise mixture or use a spicy cheese like pepper jack for extra heat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. The cooked patties can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days, while the tortillas should be wrapped tightly. Reheat your patties in a skillet or microwave before assembling the tacos for the best taste!
