These Easy Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic burgers! Juicy beef patties are flattened and cooked to perfection, all wrapped in warm tortillas.
Picture this: a taco that tastes like a burger—yum! I love making these for a quick dinner. You can top them with cheese, lettuce, and your favorite sauces for extra flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal for these tacos as it gives juicy, flavorful patties. If you want a leaner option, 90/10 can work, but the patties might be drier. You can even use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Corn Tortillas: These give a great flavor and texture! If you prefer, you can use flour tortillas for a softer bite, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is classic and tasty, but I love using pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can try non-dairy cheese, which melts fine too.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: This creamy mix adds richness to your tacos. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or use avocado for a fresh, creamy alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Form and Cook the Patties?
Forming and cooking the patties is crucial for getting that signature smash burger taste. It’s all about the technique!
- Start by forming small balls of beef (about 2 ounces). It helps keep them juicy.
- Get your skillet or griddle really hot — this is the key to a nice sear!
- Place the beef balls in the pan, then use a spatula to press down firmly but gently. This creates that thin patty shape.
- Season with salt and pepper before flipping to enhance the flavor before adding the cheese.
- Cook until crispy and brown on one side, then flip, add cheese, and cover for a minute to melt. This way, you get crispy edges and gooey cheese.
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or American)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and cook the smash burger tacos. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Turn your skillet or griddle on to medium-high heat. Let it warm up while you prepare the beef. This will help get that nice crispy layer on your smash burgers!
2. Prepare the Beef:
Take the ground beef and form it into small balls, each about the size of a golf ball (around 2 ounces each). It’s okay if they aren’t perfect; just make them roughly the same size so they cook evenly!
3. Cook the Patties:
Once your skillet is hot, place the beef balls on it. Using a spatula, press down firmly on each ball to flatten it into a patty. Season the patties with a little salt and pepper to bring out the flavor. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they are nicely browned and crispy on the bottom.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over. Right after flipping, add some shredded cheese on top of each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese has melted and becomes gooey and delicious!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burger patties are cooking, take another skillet and warm up the corn tortillas over medium heat. Heat them until they are soft and flexible, which should take just a minute or two.
6. Assemble Your Tacos:
Grab a warm tortilla and place a cheesy smash burger patty right in the center. The fun part starts here: top the patty with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of the sour cream mixed with mayonnaise. If you want a little kick, add some hot sauce too!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finish off your tacos with a lime wedge on the side for an extra burst of flavor. You’re ready to dig in! Enjoy your Easy Smash Burger Tacos and share with friends or family if you’d like (or keep them all to yourself, we won’t judge!).
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative, but keep in mind that it might not yield the same flavor and juiciness as ground beef. To enhance the taste, consider adding some olive oil or seasoning it with additional spices like garlic powder or onion powder.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the taco components separate (the patties, tortillas, and toppings) to avoid sogginess. When ready to eat, warm the patties and tortillas separately and assemble just before serving.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance. Form them and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking!
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Tacos?
These tacos are best served fresh, but you can also get creative! Try adding avocado slices, pickles, or jalapeños for added flavor. Pair with a side of chips and salsa or a fresh salad to complete the meal!
