These Easy Smash Burger Tacos bring together the best of both worlds! Juicy burgers meet a tasty taco, making every bite a fun explosion of flavor. Plus, they’re quick to whip up!
Who doesn’t love a good taco night? I love piling mine high with cheese, lettuce, and my favorite toppings. It’s a win-win when burgers and tacos join forces! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well too, but keep in mind they may not be as flavorful. My tip: you can even mix in a bit of diced mushrooms to add moisture!
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are great for these tacos, but if you can’t find them, flour tortillas can work as a substitute. Try to heat them until just soft—they’re best served warm. I often lean towards homemade tortillas when I have the time!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a nice flavor, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick. If you want a dairy-free option, there are great vegan cheese alternatives you can use.
Burger Sauce: The mix of ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard is classic. For a twist, try adding a splash of hot sauce or some relish. I like to play around with seasoning it with garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth!
How Do I Perfectly Smash the Burgers?
Smashing the patties is key to getting that tasty crust. It’s all about the technique:
- After heating your skillet, ensure it’s hot before adding the beef. This keeps the meat from steaming.
- Place a ball of beef in the skillet and gently but firmly press it down with a spatula. Don’t be shy—this is what makes it a smash burger!
- Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get a nice crust before flipping. If you flip too soon, you won’t get that sear.
- Top with cheese just before finishing to let it melt perfectly.
Trust the process, and you’ll be rewarded with deliciously crispy edges and juicy centers!
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup lettuce, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup burger sauce (such as ketchup, mayonnaise, and a splash of mustard)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pickles, for garnish
- Optional: chopped onions or jalapeños, for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a quick meal. With juicy smash burgers wrapped in warm tortillas, you’ll have a tasty treat ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a medium bowl, season the ground beef with a pinch of salt and pepper. Divide the beef into 8 equal portions and roll them into balls. This is where the fun starts, so get your hands ready!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a large skillet and pour in the olive oil. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. You want to create a great sear on your burgers!
3. Cook the Beef:
Place one ball of ground beef in the skillet and quickly press down with a spatula to flatten it into a patty. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes until a lovely crust forms. Then, flip the burger and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. Just before it’s done, sprinkle some cheddar cheese on top to melt deliciously.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, take another pan or a grill and warm the corn tortillas until they are soft and pliable. This will make wrapping your tacos super easy!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place each smashed burger patty onto a warmed tortilla. Then add some shredded lettuce, a generous dollop of sour cream, and a drizzle of burger sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with pickles and add any optional toppings like onions or jalapeños for a kick!
6. Serve:
Your smash burger tacos are ready to enjoy! Serve them warm, and encourage everyone to add even more of their favorite toppings. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef for These Tacos?
While you can use leaner ground beef, like 90/10, it may not have the same juiciness and flavor as an 80/20 blend. If you opt for lean beef, consider adding a small amount of olive oil while mixing to help keep the patties juicy.
What Type of Tortillas Work Best?
Small corn tortillas are ideal for these smash burger tacos, but you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture. Just make sure they are warm to avoid breaking when you fill them!
How Do I Store Leftover Taco Ingredients?
Store leftover cooked beef and toppings separately. Keep the beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tortillas can stay at room temperature for a day or two or be refrigerated. Just reheat everything before serving!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can add sliced tomatoes, avocado, or even different cheeses. The beauty of smash burger tacos is that you can tailor them to your taste! Just remember to keep it fun and delicious!
