Get ready for a fun twist on your favorite burger! These Original Smash Burger Tacos blend crispy burger patties with fresh toppings in a tasty tortilla.
They’re easy to make and perfect for taco night! I love to add pickles and special sauce for that extra zing. You’ll want to share, but good luck with that! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend provides the right balance of fat for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but remember they may require different seasoning to enhance flavor.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas are great for a softer texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas or other gluten-free alternatives such as quinoa or rice wraps.
American Cheese: It melts beautifully, but feel free to swap in cheddar, pepper jack, or even vegan cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it melts well for that creamy delight.
Shredded Lettuce: Romaine adds crunch, but you can use iceberg or even spinach if you prefer a different taste or texture. You could also use coleslaw mix for a fun twist.
Pickles: Dill pickles are classic, but sweet pickles or even pickled jalapeños can bring a great kick. If you prefer no pickles, consider adding sliced avocado for creaminess.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Burger Patties?
Getting those delicious crispy edges on your burger patties is a key part of this recipe! Start by preheating your skillet well so it’s hot enough to sear the meat. Here’s how to achieve that perfect smash:
- Shape the beef into loose balls but don’t overhandle it; keep it tender.
- Place the ball on the hot skillet and smash it down firmly with a spatula right away.
- Let it cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until the edges are brown. This helps develop that crispy crust!
- When flipping, don’t rush! Let the cheese melt for that gooey finish.
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 corn or flour tortillas
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Optional: hot sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll spend a little time making the sauce, cooking the beef, and assembling the tacos. A quick and delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together until well mixed. Set the sauce aside; it will add great flavor to your tacos!
2. Cook the Beef:
Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions, about 4 ounces each. Shape each portion loosely into a ball—don’t worry about making them perfect!
3. Smash the Patties:
Place one beef ball onto the hot skillet and use a spatula to smash it down into a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cook without moving it for about 3-4 minutes until the edges are nice and crispy. Flip the patty and add a slice of cheese on top, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. Toast the Tortillas:
In a separate skillet or on the griddle, lightly toast the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re warm and pliable. This makes them easier to fold and adds a nice touch!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Layer the smashed burger patty with melted cheese onto each tortilla. Top each taco with some shredded lettuce and pickles, then drizzle the prepared sauce over the top.
6. Serve:
Serve your delicious Smash Burger Tacos warm. You can add more sauce or a splash of hot sauce on the side if you want an extra kick. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based burger crumbles for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since leaner meats may cook faster.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, separate the ingredients if possible. Place leftover patties, toppings, and tortillas in airtight containers. Store the beef in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in a skillet or microwave. Assemble fresh tacos just before eating for the best taste and texture!
How to Make These Tacos Spicier?
If you want a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture before cooking. You can also serve the tacos with your favorite hot sauce or chopped fresh cilantro for an extra flavor boost!
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time! Mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This makes it easy to whip up the tacos quickly on a busy night!
