Imagine the fun of burgers wrapped up in tasty taco shells! These Smash Burger Tacos have a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings, making every bite a treat.
What I love about these tacos is how quick they are to make. Just smash the beef on the grill for that crispy edge, and you’re ready to eat! Perfect for a casual dinner or a game night feast! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work, just keep in mind they might not be as juicy.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas add a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas are a good substitute, but they may make the tacos softer. I love the crunch that corn tortillas provide!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is great for its meltiness and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for a little kick, or even a vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Special Sauce: The classic mix of mayo, ketchup, and mustard is so easy to make! You can customize it by adding a splash of hot sauce or some garlic powder for an extra flavor boost!
How Do You Cook Smash Burgers for Maximum Flavor?
The cooking method for smash burgers is key to getting that delicious crust. Start by preheating your skillet on medium-high heat. Here’s how to get it right:
- Once it’s hot, add a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Take about 2 oz of beef, roll it into a ball, then smash it flat with a spatula. The goal is to increase the surface area for that lovely crust.
- Cook each side until brown, about 3-4 minutes on the first side. The browner the better!
- Top with cheese towards the end to let it melt perfectly.
This method gives you that delicious, crispy texture that you want in a burger! Enjoy each bite!
Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for juiciness)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious meal ready in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. Give it a taste, and adjust the flavors if you’d like. Once it’s perfect, set it aside for the taco assembly later.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium-high and add a little cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, take about 2 oz of the ground beef and roll it into a ball. Place it in the skillet and quickly smash it down with a spatula to make a nice patty. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Let the patties cook for 3-4 minutes until they get a nice crispy crust on one side. Flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. In the last minute, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of each patty and cover the skillet. This will help the cheese melt beautifully!
4. Prepare the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, take another skillet and warm the corn tortillas for about 15-30 seconds on each side. You want them warm and flexible for easy folding!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take 1 or 2 smash burger patties and place them in the center of each tortilla. Top them off with shredded lettuce, diced onions, and a good drizzle of the special sauce. Yum!
6. Serve:
Your smash burger tacos are ready to enjoy! Serve them warm, and feel free to have extra sauce on the side or add your favorite toppings. Dig in!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, pork, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times and flavors may vary, so adjust your seasoning accordingly!
What If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
No worries! You can use flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just ensure that whatever you use is warmed to make it more pliable and enjoyable to eat.
How Can I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can microwave them briefly or warm them in a skillet, but be careful not to overcook the beef!
Can I Prepare the Special Sauce in Advance?
Definitely! The special sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, enhancing the taste of your tacos!
