These Easy Smash Burger Tacos bring all the juicy burger goodness into a crispy taco shell. With a delicious beef patty, cheese, and your favorite toppings, they’re sure to please!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a taco that tastes like a burger? I like to load mine up with lettuce and tomatoes, but you do you! These are quick to make, perfect for a fun dinner. 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef ensures juicy patties, thanks to the fat content. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try 85/15, but be cautious; your patties might not be as juicy.
Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas work best for these tacos, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider corn tortillas. Just make sure to warm them thoroughly to prevent cracking.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for its melty goodness. If preferred, opting for pepper jack adds a subtle kick, or use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist!
Onions: Diced onions elevate the flavor and add crunch. If raw onions aren’t your thing, consider caramelizing them for a sweeter taste.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth and warmth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, a pinch of regular paprika or chili powder will work too, just adjust the amount to your taste!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Smash Burger Patties?
Getting that perfect crisp on your smash burger patties is all about the technique! Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a pre-heated skillet or griddle on medium-high heat. This ensures that the patties sear quickly.
- After placing the beef ball on the skillet, use a spatula to apply firm pressure while smashing down. The key is to not hesitate—apply steady pressure for even cooking.
- Let the patties cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a tasty crust. Resist the urge to flip early!
- Once you flip them, don’t forget to add your cheese right away to melt it perfectly as the burger finishes cooking!
These techniques make a big difference in achieving that delicious, crispy texture we all love!
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 6 small soft flour tortillas or taco-sized tortillas
- 6 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 6 pickle slices
- 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet tasty enough to impress your family or guests. Let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and smoked paprika. Mix well until it’s smooth and looks uniform. Set this aside; it’s going to add great flavor to your tacos!
2. Heat the Pan:
Grab a large skillet or griddle and place it over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil or butter to the hot pan, so it sizzles lightly.
3. Form the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a loose ball. Don’t worry about making them perfect — a little unevenness will add character!
4. Cook the Patties:
Place one beef ball on the hot skillet, and using a spatula, smash it down firmly to create a thin patty. Season it with salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving it, allowing the bottom to get nicely browned and crispy.
5. Flip and Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over. Right after flipping, add a slice of cheese on top of each one. Cook for another minute or so, until the cheese melts and the patties are fully cooked.
6. Warm Tortillas:
While the patties are finishing up, take another pan or the microwave and warm the tortillas until they’re soft and a bit toasted. This prevents them from tearing when you fill them!
7. Assemble Tacos:
Now, it’s time to put everything together! Take a warm tortilla, spread a spoonful of your delicious sauce on it, then stack a smash burger patty on top. Add some shredded lettuce, a pickle slice, and diced onions if you like a little extra flavor.
8. Serve Immediately:
Fold your tacos and serve them hot for the best taste and texture. Enjoy the amazing combination of flavors in these tasty smash burger tacos!
Have fun making and enjoying these delicious tacos—they’re sure to become a favorite in your household!
FAQ for Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a leaner or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the meat you use, so adjust accordingly!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. The cooked patties can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator, while the tortillas should be kept at room temperature. Assemble fresh tacos as you eat them for the best texture!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld even better. Just give it a good stir before using!
What Toppings Can I Add?
The sky’s the limit! Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce for a kick. Get creative and make them your own!
