Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

If you’re a fan of both burgers and tacos, get ready for a mind-blowing combination! Smash burger tacos combine the best of both worlds – the juicy, flavorful patty of a smash burger with the handheld, crunchy goodness of a taco. The crispy, caramelized edges of the beef, melted cheese, and classic burger toppings all wrapped up in a flour tortilla make these an instant favorite. Plus, they’re super easy to make and can be whipped up on a single skillet, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

A few weeks back, I whipped these up for a family game night, and let me tell you, they disappeared in record time. The whole kitchen filled up with the irresistible aroma of seared beef and toasted tortillas, and we all huddled around the stove, impatiently waiting for each taco to be done. There’s something magical about taking that first bite – the crunch of the tortilla, the juiciness of the beef, and the tangy kick from the burger sauce. My family now requests these smash burger tacos at least once a week!

this RECIPE

The origin story of smash burgers (and how tacos joined the party)

The smash burger has its roots in classic American diners, where cooks learned that pressing a burger patty onto a hot griddle creates a deliciously crispy crust. The technique became popular because it maximizes the Maillard reaction, the chemical process that gives browned food its unique flavor. Meanwhile, tacos have been a staple of Mexican cuisine for centuries, known for their versatility and portability. Marrying these two dishes creates a fun fusion that combines the richness of a burger with the convenience of a taco. Instead of a traditional bun, the tortilla provides the perfect vessel, allowing you to enjoy all the juicy flavors without the heaviness of bread.

Let’s talk ingredients: The basics and easy swaps

For these smash burger tacos, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients, each bringing its own flavor and texture to the dish. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Ground beef: Lean ground beef is ideal here – you want some fat for flavor, but not too much or it will make the tortillas soggy. If you only have regular ground beef, you can drain off any excess grease after cooking.
• Flour tortillas: The tortillas act as both the “bun” and the “taco shell” for these burger tacos. I use 6-inch tortillas, but if you prefer a larger size, just adjust the amount of beef and toppings accordingly.
• American cheese: Nothing melts quite like American cheese, making it perfect for this recipe. If you want a different flavor, try cheddar or pepper jack, but keep in mind they may not melt as smoothly.
• Onions: Diced onions add a fresh, slightly sharp bite that balances out the richness of the beef and cheese. Feel free to use red onions for a bit of extra color and sweetness.
• Dill pickle chips: These provide a briny, tangy punch that’s essential for a true burger experience. You could swap these for bread-and-butter pickles if you like something sweeter.
• Shredded iceberg lettuce: Iceberg lettuce adds a crisp, refreshing crunch. Romaine or green leaf lettuce would work too, but stick to a mild, crunchy green for the best texture.
• Burger sauce: The sauce brings everything together with its tangy, slightly sweet flavor. Made from mayo, relish, mustard, vinegar, and spices, it’s the “secret ingredient” that takes these tacos to the next level.

Kitchen gear: What you need (and what you can skip)

To make these smash burger tacos, you don’t need any fancy equipment – just a few basics will do the trick:

• Heavy skillet or griddle: A cast-iron skillet works wonders here because it holds heat well and helps form that beautiful crust on the beef. If you don’t have cast iron, any heavy-bottomed pan will work, but avoid nonstick if possible, as it won’t give you the same crispy sear.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula is essential for pressing the beef into the tortilla and flipping it without making a mess. If you have a metal one with a thin edge, that’s perfect.
• Small bowl and spoon: For mixing up the burger sauce, any small bowl will do. This sauce is super simple, so no need for a whisk – a spoon will work fine.
• Cutting board and knife: For dicing your onions and chopping lettuce, a good sharp knife will make the prep much easier.

Step-by-step: Making smash burger tacos (with tips along the way!)

Let’s dive into the cooking process, step-by-step, so you can get that perfect smash burger taco every time.

1. Portion the beef: Start by dividing your ground beef into four equal parts. I find that using a small scale helps, but eyeballing it works fine too. Each portion should be about the size of a small fist.
2. Press the beef onto tortillas: Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface and spread one portion of beef over it. Press down firmly so the beef adheres to the entire surface of the tortilla. Don’t worry if it’s a bit thin – it’ll cook quickly and get that crispy edge we’re after.
3. Season generously: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the beef layer. Be generous here – this is what gives the meat flavor, so don’t hold back.
4. Sear meat-side down: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of neutral oil. Carefully place the tortilla with the beef side down onto the skillet. Press down gently with a spatula for a few seconds to ensure the beef makes full contact with the hot pan.
5. Cook and flip: Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the beef forms a nice brown crust. Carefully flip the taco, then immediately top with a slice of cheese. This will melt while the tortilla crisps up on the other side.
6. Finish cooking: Let the tortilla side cook for another 1-2 minutes. If you like your tortilla extra crispy, give it an extra minute, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
7. Assemble the tacos: Once all your tacos are cooked, it’s time to assemble! Spread a spoonful of the burger sauce on top of each taco, then add shredded lettuce, diced onions, and a few pickle chips for that classic burger flavor.

Mix it up: Variations and twists to try

If you’re looking to experiment, there are plenty of ways to change things up:

• Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the burger sauce for a bit of heat. You can also top with pickled jalapeños instead of pickles.
• Low-carb option: Swap the flour tortilla for a low-carb tortilla or lettuce wrap for a lighter version. You’ll still get that delicious burger flavor without the carbs.
• Cheese swap: Try switching up the cheese – Swiss, provolone, or even gouda can add a new flavor dimension. Just make sure it melts well.
• Breakfast smash taco: Try adding a fried egg on top and swap the pickles for avocado slices. A little unconventional, but surprisingly delicious!
• Extra veggie boost: Add sliced tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the mix. Just keep it simple so the taco doesn’t get too bulky.

Serving suggestions for your smash burger tacos

When it’s time to serve, these tacos don’t need much fuss. I love piling them onto a big platter so everyone can help themselves. A sprinkle of extra shredded lettuce and a few pickle chips on top add a nice visual appeal. For a finishing touch, try a little sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of extra burger sauce. These tacos are great as-is, but if you’re feeling fancy, serve them with a side of crispy fries or onion rings for a true burger-inspired feast!

Perfect drinks to pair with smash burger tacos

For a refreshing pairing, consider drinks that balance out the richness of the beef and cheese:

• Iced lemonade: The tartness of lemonade is a perfect match for the savory, slightly salty flavors in the tacos.
• Sparkling water with lime: If you’re keeping things light, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or lemon adds a refreshing twist.
• Iced tea: A glass of unsweetened iced tea with a lemon wedge is a classic choice that won’t overpower the flavors of your tacos.
• Classic cola: Sometimes, you just need a cold soda with a burger, even if it’s a taco-shaped one! Cola complements the flavors beautifully.

Storing and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence, I assure you), these smash burger tacos can be stored and enjoyed later. Wrap each taco individually in foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat to bring back some of that original crispness. Microwave is a last resort, as it can make the tortilla a bit soggy.

Adjusting for a crowd

This recipe makes four tacos, but you can easily double or triple it for a group. When scaling up, consider using a larger griddle so you can cook multiple tacos at once. Just be mindful of the cooking time – with more tacos on the heat, they might take an extra minute or two to crisp up. And remember to season generously when working with a larger batch of meat!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of tortilla?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas can work, but they won’t crisp up quite like flour tortillas. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free tortillas – just be gentle when pressing the beef on as they’re often a bit more delicate.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, but keep in mind that turkey is leaner and won’t have quite the same juiciness. Adding a splash of oil to the turkey mix can help prevent it from drying out.

3. What’s the best cheese to use?
American cheese melts perfectly for this recipe, but if you prefer something sharper, try cheddar or even gouda. Just be sure it’s a cheese that melts well.

4. Can I make the burger sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before using.

5. Can I cook these on an outdoor grill?
It’s tricky, as the meat can stick to grill grates. If you want to try, use a flat griddle on top of the grill. This way, you’ll still get that high heat without the risk of losing your taco fillings to the flames.

Enjoy your smash burger tacos, and feel free to experiment!

Print