Get ready for a fun twist on dinner with Original Smash Burger Tacos! These yummy tacos combine juicy beef patties with all your favorite burger toppings, wrapped in soft tortillas.
Imagine crispy edges on the patties and melty cheese that takes a bite of a taco to a whole new level! I love adding pickles and special sauce for an extra kick. Just be careful, they’re so good you’ll want seconds! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they’ll be leaner and may need some extra seasoning.
Tortillas: Taco-sized flour tortillas are traditional here, but you can swap them for corn tortillas, which are gluten-free. If you want something different, try using lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for that extra flavor kick. If you’re a fan of something different, pepper jack adds a lovely spice. Vegan cheese is also an option if you want a plant-based version.
Burger Sauce: The mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce gives the tacos a great taste. Don’t hesitate to switch things up with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or BBQ sauce.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smashed Patty?
The key to a great smashed patty is in the smashing technique for that crispy edge. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the beef. A hot skillet helps to sear the meat quickly.
- Use a spatula to press down firmly on the beef ball. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick; this creates more surface area for browning.
- Don’t rush the flipping! Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy. This gives you that desirable crunch.
- When you add the cheese, cover the skillet briefly to help it melt nicely.
With these tips, you’ll have juicy patties packed with flavor every time!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
For The Tacos:
- 4 taco-sized flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and a dash of hot sauce)
- Optional: onion slices for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes from start to finish! With just a bit of prep and cooking time, you’ll have flavorful smash burger tacos ready to enjoy in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
First, get your griddle or large skillet warming up over medium-high heat. This will help create those nice crispy edges on the burger patties later!
2. Prepare the Beef:
While the skillet heats up, take your ground beef and divide it into four equal balls. Each ball should weigh about 4 ounces. Set them aside as we get ready to cook!
3. Cook the Patties:
When your skillet is nice and hot, place one beef ball onto the skillet. Now for the fun part—smash it down with a spatula until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper on top! Cook this side for about 2-3 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and crispy.
4. Add Cheese:
Time to flip that patty over! Once you do, lay a slice of cheddar cheese right on top of each patty. Let it cook for another minute until the cheese gets all melty and gooey.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While those patties are cooking, grab your flour tortillas. Warm them up on another side of the griddle for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them soft and comfy to hold all those yummy fillings!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now comes the assembly! Place a cheesy smashed patty on each warm tortilla. Top it off with shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and a good drizzle of your burger sauce. If you like onions, toss some slices on top as well!
7. Fold and Serve:
Fold those tortillas in half, and they’re ready to eat! Serve them right away and enjoy the wonderful mix of burger and taco goodness. Yum!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute ground turkey or chicken! Just make sure to use a higher fat content (like 85/15) to keep the patties juicy. They may cook a bit faster, so monitor the cooking time carefully.
Can I Make the Burger Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the burger sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate slightly while sitting.
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the components separate and reassemble just before eating to maintain the taco’s texture!
Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour?
Yes, corn tortillas can work beautifully for these tacos! Just be sure to warm them well to prevent cracking. You may want to lightly brush them with oil and heat them on a skillet for a couple of minutes for added flavor and flexibility.
