Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic tacos, featuring juicy beef patties smashed to perfection! Tucked in soft tortillas, they’re topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
These little bites pack a punch of flavor! I love making them for game nights, and honestly, who can resist mini burgers in taco form? Perfect for sharing (or not)! 🌮🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for great flavor and juiciness. If you want to make it leaner, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but those might be less juicy.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for tacos. If you can’t find corn ones, flour tortillas work too, but they will change the flavor slightly.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: This combo in the sauce gives a nice creaminess. If you’re watching calories, substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold taste, but feel free to use any cheese you like. Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice twist!
Hot Sauce: This can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer milder flavors, try a little taco sauce or leave it out. For extra heat, go for a spicier sauce!
How Do I Smash the Patties Without Making a Mess?
Smashing the patties is key to getting that delicious crispy edge. Here’s how to do it successfully without too much fuss:
- Use a hot skillet to get that nice sear. Preheat it well before adding the beef.
- Form the beef into loose balls, but don’t touch them too much; this keeps them tender.
- When you’re ready to cook, press down firmly with a spatula, but do it quickly to keep the meat from shrinking.
- Watch the edges; when they start browning, it’s time to flip.
Enjoy the process; these burgers turn into delicious tacos that everyone will love!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the sauce and the ingredients, then about 20 minutes cooking the beef and assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for a busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by making the sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce (if you’re using it). Stir well until everything is combined. Once it’s ready, set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Beef:
Now, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little bit of oil. When the pan is hot, divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Form each portion into a loose ball—don’t squeeze it too much! Season each ball with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
3. Smash the Patties:
Place each ball of beef in the hot skillet. Take a spatula and press down hard on each ball to flatten it into a thin patty. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned. Flip the patties and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are fully cooked through.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the patties are cooking, you can warm the corn tortillas. You can either heat them in a separate skillet for a few seconds on each side, or you can use the microwave for about 20 seconds until they are soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fold!
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to put the tacos together! Take a warm tortilla and place a cooked beef patty on top. Add a handful of shredded lettuce and some cheddar cheese. Drizzle your prepared sauce over the top, and add pickles if you like them!
6. Serve:
Fold the tacos closed and serve them immediately while they’re hot! Enjoy your delicious Smash Burger Tacos!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a leaner option! Just keep in mind that ground turkey can sometimes be drier, so consider adding a little oil or a splash of chicken broth while cooking to maintain moisture.
How Do I Keep My Tortillas from Breaking?
To prevent your corn tortillas from breaking, it’s essential to warm them gently before filling. You can do this in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20-30 seconds until pliable.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using it to ensure it’s well combined!
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos separately: place the cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and keep the tortillas and toppings in separate containers. When ready to eat, reheat the patties in a skillet and warm the tortillas before assembling your tacos again!
