These Original Smash Burger Tacos are a tasty twist on two favorites! Imagine juicy burger patties tucked inside soft tortillas, topped with cheese, lettuce, and your choice of sauce.
They’re perfect for taco night or any day you want a fun meal. I love piling on all the toppings like a mini burger fiesta. Who wouldn’t want burger tacos? 🍔🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend (80% meat, 20% fat) is perfect for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for healthier options, lean turkey or chicken can work, but they won’t be as juicy. For vegetarian alternatives, try crumbled tempeh or black bean patties!
Tortillas: Small flour or corn tortillas are great for these tacos. I love using flour tortillas for their softness, but corn tortillas give a nice texture. If you prefer gluten-free, look for corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to swap in pepper jack for a little kick or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. You can also use dairy-free cheese if you’re keeping it plant-based.
Burger Sauce: The sauce adds a lot of flavor! If you’re out of mayo, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. You can also mix in some hot sauce for added heat. Use ketchup and mustard to taste, and don’t forget the spices!
How Do You Smash the Patties Perfectly?
Smashing the patties is key to achieving that crispy edge and juicy interior. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet; this helps create a nice sear. Preheat it over medium-high heat.
- When you place the meatball on the pan, use a sturdy spatula to apply even pressure. A flat, wide spatula works best.
- Aim for a flat, thin burger, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps it cook evenly and quickly.
Remember, don’t press them too hard or for too long—just enough to flatten them out! Enjoy the sizzle and the aroma filling your kitchen!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for juiciness)
- 8 small tortilla wraps (flour or corn, based on preference)
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup burger sauce (a mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and spices)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready and another 20 minutes cooking the patties and assembling the tacos. Quick and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
Start by dividing the ground beef into 8 equal pieces, each about 2 ounces. Roll them into loose balls. Remember not to press too hard; you want them to stay fluffy for juiciness when cooking!
2. Heat the Pan:
Next, take a skillet or griddle and place it over medium-high heat. Add just a small splash of cooking oil to help keep everything from sticking.
3. Smash the Patties:
Once your pan is hot, place the beef balls in the skillet. Now comes the fun part! Use a spatula to smash each ball down into a thin patty. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom has a lovely, crispy brown color.
4. Add Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over and place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese melts and the patties are cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In a separate pan, warm your tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they are soft and pliable. This will make them easier to fold.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Grab a warm tortilla, and lay one of those cheesy smash burger patties right in the center. Top it off with some shredded lettuce, a few pickle slices, and a generous drizzle of that tasty burger sauce. Yum!
7. Serve:
Now, fold the taco and enjoy it right away while those patties are still hot and juicy! Feel free to get creative and customize your toppings as you like!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind these meats can be leaner. Consider adding a bit of oil or seasoning for extra flavor and moisture. Just follow the same cooking steps, but check for doneness as cooking times may vary slightly.
What Kind of Tortillas Work Best for Smash Burger Tacos?
Both flour and corn tortillas work well! Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable, making them easier to fold. Corn tortillas offer a great, authentic flavor but can be a bit sturdier. Choose based on your preference or even mix and match for variety!
Can I Make the Burger Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the burger sauce a day ahead! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier when you’re ready to assemble your tacos!
How to Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The patties will keep for about 3 days, while tortillas can last about a week. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet and the tortillas in a dry pan until pliable again!
