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Smash Burger Tacos mix the tasty crunch of a classic taco with the savory delight of a griddled burger, all in a handy, easy-to-eat format. If you're in the mood for that ideal burger bite and you love tacos, these could be your new go-to for weeknight meals.
The first time I whipped these up, my family gobbled them down so quickly I barely had a chance to grab one. They're now a top pick on our last-minute dinner favorite list.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: adds a creamy tang to the homemade sauce go for a high-quality mayo for the best results
- Pickle relish: offers a sweet and tangy crunch I suggest using dill relish from the fridge for a fresher flavor
- Dijon mustard: gives a zesty flavor that’s classic for burgers
- Sugar and white vinegar: create a nice balance with subtle sweetness and tang
- Paprika: adds color and a hint of smokiness Spanish or smoked paprika is ideal for the best taste
- Onion powder and garlic powder: add deep savory notes to the sauce
- Flour tortillas: soft and flexible tortillas hold everything in well six-inch sizes work just right
- Lean ground beef: makes juicy patties without being oily grab freshly ground and season to your liking
- Salt and pepper: crucial for flavoring the beef
- Neutral oil: helps crisp up both the tortilla and beef I usually use canola or avocado oil
- American cheese: provides classic melty goodness for that restaurant-style finish
- Small onion: chopped for a fresh flavor and nice crunch
- Dill pickle chips: thinly sliced for a zesty kick
- Shredded iceberg lettuce: offers a cool, crisp crunch
- Cheese, lettuce, and onions: choose quality cheese for melting and fresh lettuce and onions
Instructions
- Divide the Beef:
- Start by splitting the ground beef into four equal portions this ensures they cook evenly and speeds up assembly
- Press on Tortilla:
- Place each tortilla flat and press one portion of beef evenly across the entire surface no gaps as they create that signature crispy texture
- Season and Prepare:
- Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on the beef side to boost flavor and get your toppings ready as the pan warms
- Heat and Oil:
- Warm a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat add a light layer of neutral oil to prevent sticking and achieve maximum crunch
- Sear the Taco:
- Put the tortilla beef-side down onto the hot skillet press down firmly with a spatula to flatten to taco thinness cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until you spot a golden crust
- Flip and Add Cheese:
- Gently turn it so the tortilla is now on the skillet surface add one slice of cheese right away to let it melt onto the hot beef
- Finish Crisping:
- Allow it to cook for another 1 to 3 minutes until the tortilla is crispy yet still foldable be careful not to burn
- Repeat Steps:
- Transfer to a plate and repeat with all the remaining tortillas and beef
- Assemble and Garnish:
- Generously spread the burger sauce then pile on shredded lettuce pickles and diced onions before folding your taco
- Serve Hot:
- Dig into your Smash Burger Tacos straight off the skillet for the tastiest melty flavor and texture
I recall stacking these high while my kids debated over who would get more sauce.
Storage Guidelines
Best enjoyed fresh but wrap any leftovers tightly and stick them in the fridge for up to two days Reheat on a skillet to re-crisp the tortilla and gently melt the cheese again.
Ingredient Alternatives
Swap ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option Try cheddar or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick Romaine or mixed greens can fill in for lettuce in a pinch.
Serving Ideas
Offer extra sauce on the side Let everyone build their own with bowls of lettuce onions and pickles nearby Pair with oven fries or a crisp slaw as a side for a complete meal.
Cultural Tidbits
Smash Burger Tacos are part of the smash burger trend that took social media by storm recently They cleverly blend American burger nostalgia with tortilla culture and that street food satisfaction.
Seasonal Variations
Grill the patties outside during warmer months Switch lettuce for shredded cabbage in winter for extra crunch Double the sauce recipe during cookout season for dipping fries or nuggets.
Success Stories
A friend made these for a summer birthday bash and the adults were hovering over the griddle snatching pieces as soon as they came off My neighbor now wants Smash Burger Tacos for every game night and we always run out.
Freezer Meal Adjustments
You can shape the beef and tortillas ahead of time and freeze in a single layer After thawing cook them straight from cold then top and serve Freeze any leftover sauce in a separate airtight container.
These Smash Burger Tacos will vanish quickly at any gathering. Make some extra sauce and enjoy that burger taco crunch every time!
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do you get the ground beef to stick to the tortillas?
Spread a thin layer of ground beef on the raw tortilla before cooking to ensure it sticks well as it fries.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of American?
Of course! Cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack, or any cheese that melts well will work for variety.
- → What's the secret to the best burger sauce?
It’s about finding the right mix: mayo, relish, Dijon, vinegar, and spices give it a nice zing. Letting it sit helps all the flavors blend together.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, whipping up the sauce the day before works great. Just let it chill for at least 30 minutes to boost the flavor before serving.
- → What size tortillas should I use?
Fajita-sized tortillas (about 6 inches) are perfect, but you can also use street taco sizes for smaller bites. Adjust how much filling you use as needed.
- → How can I make these tacos crispier?
Fry the tortilla with the meat side down until golden, then flip to toast it until it’s as crunchy as you like.