These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on dinner! With juicy beef, soft tortillas, and your favorite toppings, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
What I love is how quick they come together! Just smash the beef, cook it up, and load it with cheese and veggies. It’s like a burger party in a taco! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy texture. If you prefer leaner meat, you can go for 90/10; just be mindful that the tacos may be less juicy. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are ideal for these tacos, but corn tortillas work well too. If you’re gluten-free, choose corn tortillas. You can also use larger tortillas and make burrito-style versions!
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, making it a great choice. If you’re looking for alternatives, cheddar or pepper jack can add extra flavor. Just slice it thin so it melts well!
Onions: White onions are classic, but you can use green onions or even pickled onions for a zing. If you want sweetness, try caramelized onions instead!
How Do You Make the Perfect Smash Burger Patty?
Getting that perfect smash burger patty is key to your taco’s success! Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is hot! This helps get a nice sear.
- Don’t worry about being perfect! Just form loose balls and smash them down with a spatula.
- Season the patties immediately after smashing. This helps the flavor penetrate the meat.
- Only flip the patty once when it’s ready—this retains the juiciness and flavor.
Follow these points, and you’ll have burger patties that pack a tasty punch! Enjoy your tacos! 🌮
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred for juiciness)
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 6 slices American cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp pickle juice or vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
- Pickle slices (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights! You’ll have delicious tacos on your table in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice until it’s nice and smooth. This sauce will add a tasty kick to your tacos! Set it aside for later.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Let it get nice and hot—this is important for creating that perfect sear on the burgers!
3. Form the Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions. Don’t worry about making them perfect; loose balls are great because you’ll be smashing them down anyway!
4. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Place 2 beef balls onto the hot skillet. Take a spatula (or a burger press if you have one) to firmly smash each ball into a thin patty—about 4 inches in diameter. Once flattened, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add Cheese:
After about 2 minutes, when the edges of the patties start to brown, place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, warm the tortillas in a separate dry pan or microwave until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and less likely to break!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Lay each warm tortilla flat on a plate. Spread some of the prepared sauce on it, then place one cheese-topped smash burger patty on top. Add shredded lettuce, diced onions, and pickles if you like. Get creative with your toppings!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Fold the tortillas to form your delicious tacos and serve immediately. You can also serve the remaining sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy these quick and tasty smash burger tacos with your family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey can be a great substitute for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may not have the same juiciness, so adding a bit of oil or cooking it carefully will help maintain moisture.
How Do I Reheat Leftover Tacos?
To reheat leftover tacos, it’s best to separate the ingredients. Warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and soft tortillas in a dry pan or microwave. Then, reassemble your tacos with fresh toppings for the best taste!
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a quick stir before using it to ensure it’s well mixed.
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve With Smash Burger Tacos?
These tacos pair perfectly with sides like crispy fries, onion rings, or a simple salad. You can also serve them with corn on the cob for a fun, complete meal!
