These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two favorites! Juicy beef patties are smashed and cooked on warm taco shells, making dinner quick and delicious.
Who doesn’t love a meal that’s messy but oh-so-tasty? I can’t help but pile on the toppings—every bite is a party! 🌮🍔 For a quick dinner, this recipe is a total winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (80/20): This blend is perfect because it keeps the patties juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but be aware they may dry out faster.
Tortillas: I recommend using small flour tortillas for a soft texture. If you prefer a crunchier bite, try corn tortillas or even store-bought taco shells that make assembly easier.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a lovely flavor. If you want to change it up, you can use Monterey Jack for a milder taste or Pepper Jack if you enjoy some heat.
Special Sauce: This sauce is customizable! You can swap out the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or add hot sauce for a kick.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Burger Patties?
Getting your burger patties crispy is all about the technique. Follow these tips for success:
- Use high heat! Preheat your skillet until it’s hot before adding the beef.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Keep some space between patties to allow for even cooking.
- Smash down hard with a spatula for maximum browning. We want that crispy edge!
- Cook just until the edges are crispy—watch carefully so they don’t overcook.
By using these techniques, you’ll have the perfect base for your tacos, making them even more delicious!
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 6 small flour tortillas or taco shells
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 6 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil or butter for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 25 minutes for a meal that’s quick, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and set aside. This will be your delicious topping!
2. Prepare the Beef Patties:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a little cooking oil or butter to prevent sticking. While the skillet heats up, divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a loose ball.
3. Smash the Patties:
Place each ball onto the hot skillet. With a spatula, smash each ball down firmly to form thin patties. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges get crispy and browned, then flip them gently to cook the other side.
4. Melt the Cheese:
If you’re using cheddar cheese, place a slice on each patty after flipping. Let the cheese melt while the other side cooks for another 1-2 minutes. Once done, remove the patties from the skillet.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are resting, warm your tortillas in the skillet for a few seconds or in the microwave until soft. Then, fold them slightly to create taco shells.
6. Assemble Your Tacos:
Spread a spoonful of your special sauce inside each taco shell. Add two smashed burger patties, then top with shredded lettuce and chopped onions for some crunch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Smash Burger Tacos are ready! Serve them immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy this fun and tasty twist on classic burgers and tacos!
These tacos are not just quick but also packed with flavor, making them a hit with everyone at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just be sure to monitor cooking time closely, as turkey can dry out more easily. Consider adding a bit of olive oil to keep it moist!
How Can I Make These Tacos Spicy?
If you like a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the special sauce. You can also use spicy cheese, like Pepper Jack, to kick up the flavor even more!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with your choice of plant-based ground meat or black beans for a vegetarian option. Just follow the same instructions for cooking, adjusting the spices as you like!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the patties and tortillas separately for the best texture—this will help keep the tacos from getting soggy!
