Get ready for a fun twist on tacos with these Original Smash Burger Tacos! Juicy mini burgers are smashed and cooked to perfection, all wrapped up in soft tortillas.
They’re messy yet oh-so-delicious, just the way tacos should be! I always add some cheese and your favorite toppings for extra yum. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for balance between flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they may dry out, so be mindful of cooking time.
Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas offer a softer texture. You can also use gluten-free tortillas if needed. Just ensure they are warmed before filling!
American Cheese: This cheese melts well, giving you that classic burger taste. If you can’t find American cheese, cheddar or pepper jack are good choices—but they may alter the flavor slightly.
Special Sauce Ingredients: The mix of mayo, ketchup, and mustard gives a zesty kick. For a healthier twist, you might use Greek yogurt instead of mayo. Keep the seasonings for the full effect!
How Do You Get the Perfect Smash on Your Burger Patties?
Smashing the beef isn’t just fun; it’s crucial for texture! Here’s how you do it:
- Use a hot skillet or griddle. Preheat it to medium-high. If it’s not hot enough, the beef won’t crisp up properly.
- Form loose balls of the beef; don’t pack them tightly. When you smash, they should flatten but still be tender.
- Place the balls in the skillet with space between them. This allows for even cooking and browning.
- Use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly for about 1/4 inch thickness. The more surface area that’s exposed, the better the crust!
- Season immediately after smashing both sides for maximum flavor.
How to Make Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for searing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You will spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing the sauce, and another 10 minutes cooking the patties and assembling the tacos. Quick and delicious for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s nice and creamy, then set it aside. This sauce is going to bring so much flavor to your tacos!
2. Cook the Burger Patties:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of cooking oil to coat the bottom. While the pan is heating, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Gently roll them into loose balls—don’t press them too tightly. When the skillet is hot, place the meatballs in the pan, leaving space between each one. Using a spatula, smash each ball flat to form a patty that’s about 1/4 inch thick. Season the patties with a bit of salt and pepper.
3. Finish Cooking the Patties:
Allow the patties to cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they are browned and crispy. Then, carefully flip each patty over. Immediately place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. If you have a lid, cover the skillet for a minute to help the cheese melt beautifully.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are finishing up, warm the tortillas. You can do this on a separate skillet or directly on a grill until they are nice and pliable, which makes for easier wrapping!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Grab a tortilla and place a cheesy smashed burger patty right in the center. Top it with a generous handful of shredded lettuce and a few slices of dill pickles. Finally, drizzle the special sauce over the top for that extra zing.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Original Smash Burger Tacos are ready to go! Serve them immediately and enjoy this unique twist on a classic burger. Perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so it may not get as crispy as the beef. You might want to add a bit of cooking oil to achieve a similar texture and flavor.
What Type of Tortillas Should I Use?
You can use either corn or flour tortillas, depending on your preference. Corn tortillas will give a more authentic taco experience, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. If you’re gluten-free, go for corn tortillas!
How to Store Leftover Taco Ingredients?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the tortillas, lettuce, pickles, and sauce in separate containers to maintain their freshness. Reheat the patties in a skillet before assembling your tacos.
Can I Make the Special Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The special sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as some separation may occur.
