Smash Burger Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and Crispy: Smash technique creates a perfect crust on the burgers.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.

• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and sauces.

• Fun Twist: Combines the best of burgers and tacos in one bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 8 small flour or corn tortillas

• 1 cup shredded lettuce

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Pickles, sliced

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon ketchup

• 1 teaspoon mustard

• Optional: sliced jalapeños, onions, or avocado

Directions

1. Prepare Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. Heat Pan: Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.

3. Form Patties: Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions; loosely form into balls.

4. Cook Burgers: Place beef balls on the hot skillet and smash them down firmly with a spatula to about 1/4-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes. Top with cheese and let melt.

5. Warm Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until pliable.

6. Assemble Tacos: Spread sauce on tortillas. Add smashed burger patties, then top with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and any other desired toppings.

7. Serve: Fold and enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (2 tacos each)

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Sauce: Add hot sauce or sriracha to the mayo-ketchup mix.

• Different Cheeses: Use American, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese.

• Add Bacon: Crispy bacon strips add extra flavor.

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Best eaten fresh; leftover patties can be refrigerated up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave; tortillas are best warmed fresh.

FAQs

What is a smash burger?

A smash burger is made by pressing a ball of ground beef onto a hot surface to create a thin patty with a crispy crust.

Can I use other types of tortillas?

Yes, flour, corn, or even lettuce wraps work well.

How do I keep the patties from sticking?

Use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet and ensure it’s very hot before cooking.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead?

Yes, make the sauce up to a day in advance.

Are smash burgers healthier?

They’re smaller and thinner, often using less fat overall, but it depends on ingredients.

Can I add onions?

Yes, caramelized or raw onions add great flavor.

How do I prevent tortillas from tearing?

Warm tortillas gently to make them pliable.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas and check condiments for gluten.

How do I make it spicy?

Add sliced jalapeños or spicy sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, mild versions are great for kids.

Conclusion

Smash Burger Tacos offer a fun, flavorful fusion of two favorites—crispy, juicy smash burgers wrapped in soft tortillas. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for quick dinners or casual gatherings that satisfy everyone’s cravings.