Smash Burger Tacos bring two favorites together in a fun way! These delicious tacos have juicy beef patties, melted cheese, and fresh toppings all wrapped in a soft tortilla.
It’s like a burger and taco had a tasty baby! I love loading mine with salsa and avocado. Who knew dinner could be this much fun? Yum! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, 85/15 works too, but you might lose some juiciness. You can also try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for these tacos. If you can’t find corn ones, flour tortillas are a solid substitute. Just remember, they are a bit softer and may not hold as well.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings great flavor, but you can swap it with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. Or even a blend of different cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the tacos. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative, and it adds a nice tang. If you’re dairy-free, a vegan sour cream is a fantastic choice.
Diced Pickles: I love the crunch and tanginess they add! If you’re not a fan, you can go for jalapeños for heat, or omit them altogether and try diced tomatoes instead.
How Do I Smash Burgers Perfectly?
Smashing the burgers is key to getting that great crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is really hot – this helps create that tasty crust.
- Space the meat balls evenly on the skillet, then use a spatula or heavy object (like a pot) to smash them down.
- Don’t be shy when smashing—you want them about ¼ inch thick for a good cook.
- Let them cook without moving them for a few minutes. This allows the crust to develop!
By following these tips, you’re on your way to juicy, flavorful smash burgers that’ll make these tacos unforgettable!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup diced pickles (or pickle slices)
- 2 tbsp taco sauce (or burger sauce)
- Oil for cooking (optional, for frying tortillas)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a fun dinner or snack, with juicy burgers wrapped in warm tortillas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skillet:
Start by heating a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. If you want extra crispiness, you can add a little oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
2. Shape the Beef:
Take the ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions, about 2 ounces each. Roll each portion into a ball and place them on your hot skillet.
3. Smash the Burgers:
Using a spatula or a flat object, gently smash each ball flat in the pan, aiming for about ¼ inch thickness. Season the tops with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Let the burgers cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side until a nice crust forms. Flip them over and continue cooking for about 2 more minutes, or until they’re no longer pink in the center.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, it’s time to warm your corn tortillas. You can do this on another skillet or directly over a flame for a few seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Once the burgers are cooked, remove them from the skillet. Place each burger on a warm tortilla.
7. Add Toppings:
Top each burger with a handful of shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, some diced pickles, and a drizzle of taco or burger sauce. Get creative with your toppings if you’d like!
8. Fold and Serve:
Fold the tortillas around the delicious fillings to create a taco shape. Serve these Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re hot and enjoy a tasty twist on two of your favorites!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may require a bit more seasoning as it has a milder flavor compared to beef. You can also add a bit of olive oil to keep the turkey moist while cooking.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the ground beef before smashing them. You can also look for a spicy taco or burger sauce to drizzle on top.
Can I Make the Burgers in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance, shaping and seasoning them, then refrigerating until ready to cook. Just make sure to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Cook them straight from the fridge when you’re ready to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
To store leftovers, wrap each taco individually in foil or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes, so the tortilla gets crispy again!
