These Smash Burger Tacos bring together the juicy goodness of a burger with the fun of tacos! You get crispy beef patties, melted cheese, and fresh toppings all wrapped up in soft tortillas.
You can really personalize them! Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, or even some spicy pickles—yum! I love making these for friends; everyone always has a blast building their perfect taco! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the best flavor and juiciness, I recommend using 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). If you prefer a leaner option, 85/15 or turkey can work, though they might not have that juicy burger taste.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are ideal for these tacos. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas are a great substitute, but they will alter the texture slightly. You could also use lettuce leaves for a low-carb option!
Cheddar Cheese: I like using shredded cheddar for that classic cheeseburger taste. Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese also make tasty substitutes if you’re after something a little different!
Pickles: Dill pickles bring that iconic burger flavor. If you’re not a fan, you could skip them or substitute with jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Hot Sauce: This is optional, but it adds a nice zing. If you want a milder flavor, feel free to leave it out or substitute with a dash of mild salsa.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Crispy Beef?
The key to getting the right texture in your smashed beef is the cooking technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until hot; this helps get a good sear.
- Add a bit of cooking oil before throwing in the ground beef.
- Use a spatula to break the meat apart, then press down to flatten it. This creates more surface area for browning.
- Let it cook without stirring for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when it’s nicely browned on one side.
- Season with salt and pepper as you go for the best flavor.
Don’t rush the smashing! A good sear creates that yummy burger crust we all love.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup lettuce, shredded
- ¼ cup pickles, sliced
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the sauce and cooking the beef, and then about 10 minutes warming the tortillas and assembling the tacos. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce if you like a bit of heat. Stir them together until well mixed, and then set this tasty sauce aside for later. This will add a nice flavor to your tacos!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and pour in a small amount of cooking oil. When the skillet is hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, pressing it down with the spatula to keep it flat and crispy. You want a nice sear on it!
3. Warm the Tortillas:
In another skillet, warm each corn tortilla for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side until they’re nice and flexible. This will make them easier to fold and less likely to break apart. Just keep them on a low heat so they don’t get crispy.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now comes the fun part! Take two warm tortillas and lay them side by side on a plate. Add a generous amount of the smashed beef right in the center of the tortillas. Top that with some shredded cheddar cheese, a handful of shredded lettuce, and a few slices of pickles. Yum!
5. Add the Sauce:
Drizzle the prepared sauce over the delicious filling you just created. Don’t be shy with the sauce—it adds an amazing flavor! Get it just how you like it.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Fold the tortillas over the filling gently to create your tacos. Enjoy them warm, and repeat until all ingredients are used up. Feel free to share (or not)! These Smash Burger Tacos are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer turkey or chicken, those work great as alternatives. Just ensure you cook them thoroughly, and you can adjust the seasoning according to your taste. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based ground meat or black beans for a delicious twist!
How to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the taco fillings separate from the tortillas to prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, reheat the beef in the skillet and warm the tortillas separately for the best texture.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance! Just keep it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Stir well before using to refresh the flavors when you’re ready to assemble your tacos.
What Are Some Great Toppings for Smash Burger Tacos?
Feel free to get creative! Other great toppings include diced tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado, or even crispy bacon bits. Add fresh cilantro or onions for extra flavor. Customize it based on your taste preferences!
