These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic burgers, perfect for those busy nights! Juicy beef patties are smashed flat and served in soft tacos with all your favorite toppings.
I love how quickly they come together—just cook, smash, and stuff! You can customize each taco with cheese, lettuce, or anything your heart desires. Enjoy a taco night without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for leaner options, ground turkey or chicken will work, but they may not be as juicy. For a vegetarian version, try black beans or lentils mashed into patties.
Tortillas: Use small flour tortillas for a softer bite or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. You could also consider taco-sized lettuce wraps if you’re cutting carbs or want a fresh crunch.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can swap it with pepper jack for a spicy kick or even a dairy-free cheese if needed. Just ensure it melts well!
Pickles: Pickles add a nice tang, but you can substitute with jalapeños for heat or diced tomatoes for a fresh twist. Feel free to use dill or bread-and-butter pickles based on your preference.
How Do You Achieve Crispy Smash Burger Patties?
To get those crispy, delicious edges on your smash burger tacos is all about the smashing technique! Start with very hot skillet and loose beef balls—don’t compress the meat too much.
- Place the beef balls in the hot skillet. Smash them down firmly using a spatula to form a thin patty.
- Cook without moving the patties for 2-3 minutes to allow a nice crust to form.
- Add seasoning right after smashing to get it deep into the meat.
When you flip the patties, keep the heat high for that perfect sear, and don’t forget to top with cheese right after flipping so it melts perfectly!
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 3 slices cheddar cheese, halved (optional)
- Pickle slices, as needed
- Shredded lettuce, about 1 cup
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or mild chili powder (for sauce and to dust tortillas)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for toasting tortillas)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick dinner. Total time is approximately 20-25 minutes from start to finish!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and smoked paprika until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Set aside.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and let it get very hot. This is crucial for achieving those beautiful crispy edges on the patties!
3. Form the Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions. Gently roll each portion into a loose ball without compressing it too much.
4. Toast the Tortillas:
In a separate skillet over medium heat, lightly brush each tortilla with vegetable oil or butter. Dust the tortillas with a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor. Heat each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until lightly charred and warm. Keep them warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel.
5. Cook the Patties:
Add the beef balls to the hot skillet. Use a heavy spatula or a metal press to smash each ball down to form thin patties, about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t skip this step, as the “smashing” creates the signature crispy edges!
6. Season and Cook:
Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper generously over the patties. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the edges to brown and crisp up nicely.
7. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties and immediately place half a slice of cheddar cheese on each. Allow them to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties are cooked through.
8. Assemble the Tacos:
Spread a spoonful of the prepared sauce onto each warm tortilla. Place a melted cheese smash patty on top of the sauce.
9. Add Toppings:
Top each taco with a couple of pickle slices and a sprinkle of shredded lettuce for that fresh crunch.
10. Serve Immediately:
Fold the tortillas over the filling and serve while they’re nice and warm. Enjoy your quick and tasty smash burger tacos, ideal for busy nights!
This recipe is not only simple and quick but also allows you to get creative with your toppings! Feel free to add sliced tomatoes, onions, or even avocado to make it your own!
FAQ About Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful that they may not be as juicy as beef. Adding a little bit of olive oil or broth while cooking can help retain moisture.
What Should I Do with Leftover Tacos?
If you have any leftover tacos, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes until warmed through, or microwave them for about 30-60 seconds. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together for a tastier taco experience!
How Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
To create vegetarian smash burger tacos, use black beans, lentils, or a store-bought plant-based ground meat substitute. Just season and cook them similarly to the beef patties for a delicious option!
