Get ready for a fun twist on dinner with these easy smash burger tacos! Juicy burger patties are smashed flat, seasoned, and tucked into soft taco shells, making them easy to hold and eat.
You’ll love how fast they come together! I like to add my favorite toppings, like cheese and lettuce, for extra crunch. Perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, but they might need extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar and American cheese melt beautifully, creating that melty goodness we love on burgers. If you want something different, Swiss or pepper jack can add a nice twist with their flavors.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to fold, but corn tortillas will work too. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas, just heat them up to make them more pliable.
Mayonnaise: The mix of mayo, ketchup, mustard, and smoked paprika creates a tasty burger sauce. If you’re watching calories, Greek yogurt is a good substitute, adding creaminess with less fat.
How Do You Get That Perfect Smash on the Burger Patties?
One of the key techniques for smash burgers is the “smash” itself. It ensures the patties are evenly cooked and develops those beautiful crispy edges. Here’s how to do it:
- When you place the beef ball on the skillet, use a heavy spatula or a burger press to push it down firmly, creating a thin patty.
- Leave it alone for about 2-3 minutes. This lets it get nice and brown. Don’t rush this step!
- Flip carefully with the spatula to keep that crispy edge. Add cheese right after flipping for the best melt!
Using a non-stick skillet makes flipping easier, and don’t forget to let the patties rest for a moment after cooking to keep them juicy.
Easy Smash Burger Tacos Recipe for Quick Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 6 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup pickles, sliced
For the Burger Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a super quick dinner that’s ready to enjoy in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need something tasty and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and smoked paprika. This will be your delicious burger sauce—set it aside for later!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Get a large skillet or griddle and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil or butter to the hot skillet, letting it melt and coat the bottom.
3. Form the Burger Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 6 equal parts and roll them loosely into balls. This will help create nice, juicy patties when we smash them!
4. Smash the Patties:
Place one beef ball on the hot skillet and smash it down firmly with a spatula to form a thin patty. Season the patty with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful—this spatula can be a little tricky!
5. Cook the Patties:
Let the patty cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving it. This will help the edges get brown and crispy. Once it’s brown, flip the patty over.
6. Add Cheese:
As soon as you flip the patty, add a slice of cheese right on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the patty is fully cooked.
7. Warm the Tortillas:
While your patties finish cooking, warm up the tortillas! You can do this in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a skillet until they’re soft and pliable.
8. Assemble Your Tacos:
Spread some of the burger sauce on each tortilla. Then, add the smash burger patty with melted cheese on top, followed by some shredded lettuce and pickle slices.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your smash burger tacos are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot, and don’t forget to share them with family and friends—if you want to!
FAQ
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef Instead?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef, but it might result in drier patties. If you’re using a leaner blend, consider adding a little oil or mixing in some grated cheese to maintain juiciness.
How Can I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the tortillas from drying out.
Can I Make the Burger Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the burger sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s a great way to save time for future taco nights!
What Toppings Can I Add to These Tacos?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! Some great options include diced tomatoes, avocado slices, jalapeños for heat, or even crispy bacon for some extra flavor. Make it your own!
