Get ready for a fun twist on tacos with these smash burger tacos! Juicy burger patties meet crunchy taco shells, making for a tasty treat.
These tacos are not only delicious but also easy to make. I love piling on all my favorite toppings; the messier, the better! Who doesn’t love a little taco chaos? 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use ground turkey or chicken, but be careful since those can dry out if overcooked.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas add a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas work too. Just know that the taste will be a bit different.
Shredded Lettuce: Iceberg is my favorite for its crunch, but any lettuce works. For a twist, try using arugula or spinach for a peppery bite.
Sriracha Sauce: Love the heat from sriracha! If you want less spice, consider using ketchup or barbecue sauce instead. For more flavor, mix in some hot sauce.
Mayonnaise: I like using regular mayo, but a vegan version can substitute easily. Yogurt can also work for a lighter take.
How Do I Get the Patties Perfectly Crispy?
Smashing the patties is crucial for that crispy edge and juicy center. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet or griddle is hot enough before adding the meatballs; this helps achieve browning.
- When you smash the meatballs, press firmly with a spatula until they’re about 1/2 inch thick. That width gives them the right amount of cook time.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cooking in batches if needed helps each patty to get that crispy texture.
Finally, keep an eye on the cooking time! A total of 4-5 minutes should be enough, depending on your heat and preference for doneness. Happy cooking!
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 lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices dill pickles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For the Spicy Mayo:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (or chili sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 20-25 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with salt and pepper. Take small amounts of the mixture (about 2 ounces each) and roll them into meatballs. Set them aside for later.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and drizzle a little cooking oil to prevent sticking. Allow the pan to get hot while you prepare the next steps.
3. Cook the Burger Patties:
Once your skillet is hot, gently place the meatballs in the pan. Using a spatula, carefully smash each meatball flat until they are about 1/2 inch thick. Let them cook until browned on one side, which should take around 2-3 minutes.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
After the first side is browned, flip the patties over and let them cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until they are cooked to your liking. You want them nice and juicy!
5. Make the Spicy Mayo:
While the patties are cooking, grab a separate bowl and mix the mayonnaise with the sriracha sauce until well combined. This will be your delicious spicy mayo!
6. Warm the Tortillas:
Using the same skillet, quickly heat each corn tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they are warm and soft. This will make them easier to fold and enjoy!
7. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Place one smashed burger patty on each warm tortilla. Top with a handful of shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, a drizzle of your spicy mayo, and finish it off with a slice of pickle.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These tacos are best served warm, so enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos right away! Gather your friends or family and dig in—it’s a fun and tasty meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary based on the meat you choose, so make sure to check for doneness.
How to Keep Tacos Warm While Assembling?
If you’re making a lot of tacos and need to keep them warm, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a warm oven (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve. This helps retain heat and keeps the tortillas from drying out.
Can I Make the Spicy Mayo in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the spicy mayo ahead of time! Mix the mayonnaise and sriracha, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes assembling your tacos a breeze when it’s time to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
For leftover tacos, it’s best to separate the components. Store the smashed burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and keep the tortillas, lettuce, cheese, and spicy mayo in separate containers. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave before serving.
