Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites! Picture juicy, smashed beef patties nestled in soft tortillas, topped with cheese, lettuce, and a zingy sauce.
These tacos are perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend treat. I love how easy they are to whip up, and watching friends fight over the last taco always makes me smile! 🍔🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too but may be less juicy. For a healthier alternative, try ground turkey or chicken, keeping in mind it may change the taste.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for these tacos. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, stick with corn. Alternatively, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture, but they won’t give that classic taco crunch.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a great choice for melting and flavor. If you want something different, feel free to use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little heat. Vegan cheese alternatives also work if you’re avoiding dairy.
Onion: I use regular onions for a bit of bite. If you want a milder flavor, try green onions or sweet onions. Red onions add a pop of color, and if you’re looking for a no-onion option, just skip them!
Burger Sauce: Thousand Island dressing is a tasty choice. If you prefer a homemade sauce, mix mayo, ketchup, pickles, and a splash of vinegar for a quick alternative. It adds tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with burgers.
How Can You Get the Perfect Smash Patties?
Making the perfect smash patties is all about the technique. This method gives you that delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a hot skillet, which helps the meat to sear quickly and form a nice crust.
- When placing the beef balls on the skillet, smash them down firmly but gently with a spatula. The goal is to flatten them while keeping some juice inside.
- Cook them undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on the first side. This allows a crust to form, which is key for flavor.
- After flipping, immediately add the cheese to melt perfectly over the patty.
Remember, don’t flip the patties too soon! Letting them sear makes all the difference in taste and texture.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (can use Thousand Island dressing or special burger sauce)
- Optional: diced tomatoes, pickles for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by putting the ground beef in a bowl. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Divide the beef into 8 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. This will be the base for your tasty burger patties!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a skillet or griddle and preheat it over medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil to the pan to coat the surface—this helps prevent sticking and gives a nice sear to the patties.
3. Smash the Patties:
Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the beef balls on it. Using a spatula or a burger press, smash each ball down into a thin patty. Cook these for about 2-3 minutes on one side until you see a nice crust forming.
4. Add Cheese:
Now it’s time to flip the patties! Once flipped, immediately sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each patty. Let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melty and gooey. Yum!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, take another pan and lightly warm the corn tortillas. Heat them for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. This will make assembling your tacos easy!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now comes the fun part! Place a cheesy beef patty on each tortilla. Top it off with shredded lettuce, diced onion, and any extra toppings you like, such as diced tomatoes or pickles.
7. Serve:
Drizzle your favorite burger sauce over the tacos and serve alongside extra sauce for dipping. Enjoy your amazing Smash Burger Tacos with friends and family!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional fats to maintain juiciness. If you use turkey or chicken, consider adding a tablespoon of oil to the meat mixture to help it stay moist.
How to Keep Tortillas from Breaking?
To prevent corn tortillas from breaking, ensure you warm them properly. Lightly heating them in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side makes them more pliable. If you’re preparing a large batch, you can wrap a stack of tortillas in a clean kitchen towel and keep them warm in a low oven (about 200°F) until you’re ready to assemble your tacos.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the beef patties in advance! Form the patties and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between the layers. When ready to cook, just take them straight from the fridge to the hot skillet!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Taco Ingredients?
Store leftover cooked patties and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Cooked patties can last up to 3 days, while shredded lettuce and diced onions will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Reheat the patties on low heat in a skillet before reassembling your tacos for the best flavor!
