The Original Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on two classic favorites! These tasty tacos are filled with juicy hamburger patties that are smashed for extra flavor, topped with cheese and fresh toppings.
Who knew burgers could fit in a taco shell? It’s like the best of both worlds! I love adding extra pickles and a little salsa to mine. They’re perfect for game night or any casual dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect because it keeps the burgers juicy with enough fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you might try ground turkey or chicken, but be sure to add extra seasoning to keep the flavor up!
Tortillas: You can use either flour or corn tortillas depending on your preference. I lean toward flour for a softer taco, but corn adds a great flavor. If gluten-free is needed, look for gluten-free tortillas available at most grocery stores.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic and melts beautifully. If you’d like a different taste, Monterey Jack or pepper jack can give a nice spin with a hint of spice. Vegan cheese can also be a good substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Creamy Sauce: This sauce is versatile! You can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you’re not a fan of mustard, try a bit of barbecue sauce for a different but delicious flavor!
How Do I Smash the Burgers Perfectly?
Smashing the burgers is key to getting that great crispy edge and juicy interior. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet well—this helps with searing.
- Form your beef into loose balls and avoid overworking it, as that can toughen the meat. Aim for a gentle touch!
- Using a flat spatula, press down firmly on the beef ball to flatten it into a patty. A good tip is to press down until it’s about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season generously with salt and pepper right after smashing. The direct contact will enhance flavor.
- Cook until edges are crispy—around 2-3 minutes per side is usually perfect!
Take your time with this step; it’s the heart of the flavor in these tacos!
How to Make The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 small flour or corn tortillas
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/2 cup creamy sauce (see below)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll be mixing the sauce, cooking the burgers, and assembling the tacos in no time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix everything together until smooth. Taste your sauce and add a pinch of salt and pepper if you like. Set it aside to let the flavors blend.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Take the ground beef and gently form it into 4 equal balls. Be careful not to overwork the meat; we want to keep it tender!
3. Smash the Burgers:
Once your skillet is hot, place a beef ball on it. Using a flat spatula, press down firmly to flatten the meat into a thin patty. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top. Cook the patty for about 2-3 minutes or until it has a nice sear before flipping it over.
4. Add Cheese:
Flip the patty over and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and the burger is cooked to your liking.
5. Heat Tortillas:
While your burgers are sizzling, warm the tortillas. You can place them on another skillet or briefly heat them over the flame of a gas stove for a few seconds on each side. Just until they’re soft and bendy.
6. Assemble Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Place the melty cheeseburger patty on a warmed tortilla. Top it off with some shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and a generous drizzle of the creamy sauce.
7. Serve:
Serve your Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re hot and fresh! Feel free to have some extra creamy sauce on the side—you might want more for dipping! Enjoy your delicious meal!
## FAQ for The Original Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Keep in mind that these meats may need a little more seasoning due to their milder flavor. It’s best to choose an 85/15 blend for juiciness since leaner versions may result in dry patties.
How Can I Make the Creamy Sauce Spicier?
If you want to add some heat to the creamy sauce, consider mixing in a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also add diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the components separate. Place any leftover patties, tortillas, and toppings in airtight containers in the fridge. They should be consumed within 2-3 days. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet and tortillas on a separate pan for best results.
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar is classic, you can substitute with other cheeses like American, pepper jack for spice, or even crumbled feta for a unique flavor twist. Just make sure the cheese melts well to maintain that delicious gooey texture!
