These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic burgers! They’re made with juicy beef patties, crunchy lettuce, and your favorite taco toppings—all wrapped in a soft tortilla.
Who knew you could enjoy burgers and tacos in one bite? I love making these for quick dinners when I want something tasty yet simple. Just smash, fill, and devour—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend works best for juicy and flavorful patties. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try 90/10, but know that your patties might be a bit drier. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Tortillas: Small flour or corn tortillas are preferred. If you want gluten-free, there are great alternatives available. Just ensure they are soft enough to fold easily without tearing.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but feel free to swap it for American cheese for a classic burger taste, or even pepper jack if you want some spice.
Mayonnaise: The mayo-based sauce adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan of mayo, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be good alternatives. For a vegan option, use avocado or a plant-based mayo.
How Do I Smash the Burger Patties Correctly?
Smashing the burger patties is essential to getting that nice crispy edge and enhancing the flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a hot cast iron skillet—this helps to sear the meat quickly.
- Place the ball of meat in the skillet and press down firmly with the back of a spatula. Aim for a thin patty for maximum crispiness.
- Don’t move the patty around. Let it cook for a few minutes, allowing the bottom to develop that tasty crust.
The key takeaway? Smash and leave the patty alone to work its magic!
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend best for juicy patties)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 6 small flour or corn tortillas
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 6 pickle slices (dill or bread-and-butter pickles)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10-15 minutes to cook. In about 25-30 minutes, you can have delicious Smash Burger Tacos ready for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Smoky Burger Sauce:
Start by mixing the mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika or chili powder in a small bowl. This will be your tasty smoky burger sauce. Once mixed, set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Skillet:
Heat a large cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil or butter. You want it nice and hot to sear the patties beautifully!
3. Shape the Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 6 equal balls, about 2.5 ounces each. Place one ball on the hot skillet and smash it down with the back of a spatula to form a thin patty. Make sure to season it with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Patties:
Let the patties cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is crispy and brown. Flip the patties, add a slice of cheese on top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, warm the tortillas in another dry skillet or in the microwave until they are soft and easy to fold.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a spoonful of your smoky burger sauce on each tortilla. Place a smash burger patty with the melted cheese on top, and then add some shredded lettuce and a pickle slice to finish it off.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Fold the tortillas around the filling to enclose everything nicely and serve immediately. Enjoy your quick and delicious Smash Burger Tacos!
FAQ for Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just note that they may require slightly less cooking time, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
How Do I Prevent the Tacos from Getting Soggy?
To keep your tacos from becoming soggy, make sure to warm the tortillas just before serving and add the sauce directly to the tortilla instead of the filling. Also, serve the tacos immediately after assembling to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the smoky burger sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it in your tacos.
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
If you have leftover tacos, store the components separately in airtight containers. The patties and sauce will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the patties and assemble your tacos fresh!
