These Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on your favorite burger! They feature juicy beef patties, all nestled in warm tortillas and topped with cheese, onions, and sauce.
Who knew tacos could be this tasty? I love serving them with a side of crispy fries for a full meal. Trust me, your friends will ask for seconds! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try 90/10, but be aware it might be less flavorful.
Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are great for this recipe, but corn tortillas or even larger ones can work in a pinch. If you want a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free tortillas instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts wonderfully and adds nice flavor. If you want a different taste, try Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a little kick!
Pickles: Dill pickles are classic, but if you prefer a sweeter taste, use bread and butter pickles. You can also skip them altogether if you’re not a fan.
Sauce Ingredients: The mayo-based sauce adds tang and creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayo for a healthier twist, or skip the mustard if you’re not keen on its flavor.
How Can I Make a Perfect Smash Patty?
The technique for the smash patty is crucial for getting that crispy texture and juicy interior. Here’s how to do it right:
- Keep the beef portion lightly rolled into balls; avoid packing tightly.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the patties. This ensures a good sear.
- When smashing, use a heavy spatula or burger press, and press down firmly to flatten to about 1/4 inch thick. Season right away for the best flavor.
- Let the patties cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, allowing that nice crust to form before flipping.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve that perfect crunchy outer layer while keeping the inside nice and juicy!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 small flour tortillas
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup sliced pickles
For The Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp pickle juice
- Optional: Hot sauce for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you can expect to spend about 30-35 minutes to have these delicious tacos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice until well combined. Taste your sauce and adjust it with a little salt and pepper if needed. Set this tasty sauce aside for later.
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions, each about 4 ounces. Roll each portion into a ball, but make sure not to squish them too tightly. They’ll be smashed later!
3. Smash the Patties:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Place the beef balls on the hot surface. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash each ball flat so it’s about 1/4 inch thick. As soon as you finish smashing them, season each patty with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Meat:
Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are beautifully browned and crispy on the bottom. Flip the patties over carefully, and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate skillet, lightly toast the flour tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re warm and flexible. This makes them perfect for holding all the tasty fillings!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place a cheesy smash patty in each warm tortilla. Top it off with a handful of shredded lettuce and sliced pickles. Drizzle your prepared sauce generously over everything to add that delicious flavor!
7. Serve:
Serve the tacos warm, with any extra sauce on the side. If you like a little kick, don’t forget to add some hot sauce for extra flavor! Enjoy your tasty smash burger tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just make sure to season it well since turkey can be less flavorful. You may want to add a little olive oil to the pan to help keep the patties moist as they cook.
What Can I Substitute for Flour Tortillas?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas work wonderfully! Alternatively, you could use lettuce wraps if you want to keep it low-carb. Just be sure to choose sturdy lettuce like romaine or iceberg to hold the fillings well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and consider toasting the tortillas again for a great texture!
Can I Add Other Toppings to These Tacos?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. Sautéed onions, diced tomatoes, avocado, or even crispy bacon would all make fabulous additions. Just make sure to keep the balance of flavors in mind!
