These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your regular taco night! They feature juicy burger patties and all your favorite toppings wrapped in soft tortillas. Yum!
Making these is a breeze! Just smash the burger, cook it up, throw it in a taco, and you’re good to go. I love adding extra cheese—because who doesn’t love cheese? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 will work too, but it may not be as juicy. For a non-beef option, try ground turkey or plant-based meat!
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are perfect for these tacos, but if you prefer corn tortillas, go for it! They add a nice flavor, but they may be more delicate. I sometimes warm them in advance to keep them fresh.
Cheese: Cheddar or American cheese are favorites for cheesiness, but feel free to switch it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. If you want to go dairy-free, look for vegan cheese alternatives.
Special Sauce: The mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and paprika combo is a classic! If you’re vegan, try using plant-based mayo, and adjust the seasoning to your taste. I like to add a splash of hot sauce for extra zing!
How Do I Get My Smash Burgers Nice and Crispy?
The secret to crispy smash burgers is all in the cooking technique! Making sure your skillet is hot enough is key. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat your skillet until it’s very hot before adding the beef. This ensures a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each burger space to breathe.
- After smashing, leave the burgers alone for a couple of minutes to let them develop that delicious crust.
- Use a sturdy spatula to really flatten the beef. A quick, firm press will give you that signature crusty texture.
- If your burgers are sticking, make sure you have enough oil in the pan!
By following these tips, your smash burgers will turn out crispy and flavorful every time!
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 6 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese
- Pickle slices (about 12 slices)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for dusting)
- For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter for tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 30 minutes. This quick and tasty dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a fun dinner with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and smoked paprika together. Taste it and adjust any seasonings if you’d like. Set the sauce aside for later—it gives the tacos a great kick!
2. Form Beef Balls:
Take your ground beef and divide it into 6 equal portions. Gently roll each portion into a ball. Don’t compress too much; you want them to stay tender and juicy!
3. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or a flat top griddle over medium-high heat until it’s very hot. Place 2 or 3 beef balls on the skillet, making sure there’s room between them. Using a sturdy spatula, press each ball down to flatten it into a 3-4 inch wide patty. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the patties without moving them for about 2-3 minutes until they are deeply browned and crispy on the bottom. Carefully flip the patties, place a slice of cheese on each one, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burgers are cooked through. Keep these warm on a plate while you repeat with the remaining beef.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, take your tortillas and lightly brush them with vegetable oil or butter. In the same skillet, heat the tortillas until they have charred spots and are warmed through, about 30-60 seconds per side. This makes them nice and flexible!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Time to put it all together! Place a cheese-topped smash burger in each tortilla. Add a couple of pickle slices and a scoop of shredded lettuce. Drizzle on the special sauce you made earlier. For a little extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on top!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re hot and cheesy! They’re sure to be a hit. Feel free to add any other favorite toppings like diced onions, tomato slices, or a splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling bold!
This recipe yields about 6 delicious tacos, perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey works well, but keep in mind that it can be drier than beef. Opt for a blend that is around 85/15 for the best results, and consider adding a little olive oil to keep it juicy.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or sliced serrano peppers inside the tacos. You can also mix in some hot sauce into the special sauce or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra zing!
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the special sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a stir before using. It also gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully!
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the patties and toppings separately in airtight containers. The cooked patties will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave and warm the tortillas again before assembling fresh tacos!
