These Easy Smash Burger Tacos bring the best of burgers and tacos together! With juicy beef patties smashed onto warm tortillas, they are packed with flavor and fun!
Who can resist a taco with a meaty twist? I love piling on guacamole, cheese, and my favorite salsa. It’s a tasty party in every bite—just don’t forget the napkins! 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap in ground turkey or chicken, but be aware it might be less juicy.
Tortillas: You can use either corn or flour tortillas. Corn adds a nice authentic touch, while flour is softer. If you’re gluten-free, try using corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a classic taste, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat. Pre-shredded cheese can save time, but grating your own can enhance the flavor.
Sauces: The mayo, ketchup, and mustard mix is a real classic. If you’re avoiding egg or dairy, try vegan mayonnaise or even guacamole for a unique twist. You can also add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Smash Patty?
The key to a smash burger is getting a good sear while keeping the center juicy. Start with preheated skillet or griddle—this helps achieve that tasty crust!
- After rolling your beef into balls, place them on the hot surface and press down with a spatula. Aim for a thin patty but remember to leave some room between each.
- Season immediately! Add salt and pepper before flipping for maximum flavor.
- Flipping the patties should be done gently to retain their juices. Add cheese right after flipping so it melts perfectly.
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1/4 cup pickles, sliced (or whole pickle slices)
- Optional: diced tomatoes, onions, or any other desired toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy 20-minute meal from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a fun weekend cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skillet:
First, heat your skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get those burgers crispy!
2. Form the Beef Patties:
Next, take your ground beef and divide it into 8 equal portions. Each portion should be about 2 ounces. Roll each portion into a ball. This will make it easy to smash them into patties later.
3. Cook the Patties:
Place one beef ball onto the hot skillet. Using a spatula, press down firmly to flatten it into a thin patty. Repeat this for each beef ball, leaving some space between each patty. Season each patty with a sprinkle of salt and pepper as they cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are brown and crispy.
4. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over and get ready to melt that cheese! Quickly place a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese on each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is gooey and the burger is cooked through. Yum!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While your burgers are cooking, heat the tortillas in a separate pan or right on the grill. You want them to be warm and slightly crispy to hold all those delicious fillings.
6. Assemble Your Tacos:
Time to put it all together! Take a warm tortilla and place a cheesy burger patty inside. Then, top it off with a handful of shredded lettuce, a dollop of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and your sliced pickles. Feel free to add any other toppings you like, such as tomatoes or onions!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Fold the tortillas over to form your tasty tacos, and serve them up while they’re still hot. Enjoy your Easy Smash Burger Tacos with friends and family!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for This Recipe?
While you can use leaner ground beef, like 90% or 95% lean, it may result in slightly drier burgers since the fat content is lower. If you opt for leaner beef, consider adding a little bit of oil to the pan to help keep the patties moist.
How Do I Warm Up Leftover Tacos?
To reheat leftovers, you can place the tacos in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. To retain the taco shell’s crunch, avoid microwaving them as that can make them soggy.
Can I Substitute the Tortillas?
Absolutely! You can use larger flour tortillas for bigger tacos or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just be mindful that the cooking time for fillings might vary slightly if you change the wrapper.
What Toppings Can I Add to Customize My Tacos?
The possibilities are endless! Besides the classic toppings, feel free to add avocado slices, jalapeños for some heat, or different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for a flavor twist. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
