There’s a certain magic that happens when two beloved comfort foods collide: think gooey burgers and crispy tacos joining forces in a single bite. Enter the Smash Burger Tacos, a creation that marries the rich, savory goodness of smash burgers with the fun, customizable essence of tacos. Imagine the satisfying crunch of a lightly toasted tortilla cradling a perfectly cooked beef patty, topped with melty cheese and your favorite fresh toppings.
After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the convenience of this 20-minute meal to put smiles on my family’s faces. Not only do these tacos hit all the right flavor notes, but their versatility means everyone can enjoy their own personalized creation. So, whether you’re celebrating taco Tuesday, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, these Smash Burger Tacos are destined to become your new go-to comfort food. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Smash Burger Tacos a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: These tacos combine juicy beef and melted cheese for a mouthwatering experience.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute gathering.
Customization Galore: Load them up with your favorite toppings, making them suitable for every palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress family and friends with this fun take on two beloved classics that’s sure to be a hit.
Versatile Options: Easily swap ingredients to cater to dietary preferences, making it a meal everyone can enjoy.
Kickstart your culinary journey with these Smash Burger Tacos!
Ingredients for Smash Burger Tacos
Get ready to create a flavor-packed meal that will satisfy your cravings!
For the Creamy Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and moisture; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Ketchup – Provides sweetness and tang; opt for sugar-free ketchup if desired.
• Sweet Pickle Relish – Adds a sweet-tart flavor contrast; chopped dill pickles can be a substitute if you prefer a sharper taste.
• Yellow Mustard – Offers acidity and mild heat; use Dijon mustard for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
• Hot Sauce – Gives heat and enhances overall flavor; adjust to preference or omit for a milder version.
For the Tacos
• Ground Beef – The main protein that provides richness; use grass-fed or plant-based ground beef for healthier options.
• Flour Tortillas (5 inches) – Forms the taco base; corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.
• Burger Seasoning – Enhances flavor with a mix of spices; feel free to use your favorite spice blend.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; sea salt can also be used.
• Neutral Oil (divided) – Used for cooking the beef and toasting the tortillas; canola or grapeseed oil are good alternatives.
• American Cheese (slices) – Melts beautifully to create a gooey texture; more flavorful alternatives include Velveeta or cheddar.
For the Toppings
• Bread-and-Butter Pickle Slices – Provides a sweet crunch; dill pickles can be used for added tanginess.
• Shredded Iceberg Lettuce – Adds freshness and a crisp bite; mixed greens can serve as a substitute if desired.
• Chopped Yellow Onion – Introduces sharpness and crunch; red onion can be swapped for a different flavor profile.
• White Sesame Seeds – For garnish, adding a crunch; can be omitted if unavailable.
Get your ingredients ready and let’s create some unforgettable Smash Burger Tacos that will make your taste buds dance!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
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Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, and hot sauce until smooth. Set this creamy sauce aside to let the flavors meld together.
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Cook the Beef: In a skillet, heat the neutral oil over medium heat. Season the ground beef with burger seasoning, then cook it until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces. It should take about 5-7 minutes for a well-cooked texture.
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Toast Tortillas: In another pan, lightly toast the flour tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re pliable. This adds a lovely crunch to your tacos.
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Assemble the Tacos: Place a generous amount of the cooked beef onto each tortilla. Top them with a slice of American cheese, allowing it to melt onto the warm beef, then drizzle with your prepared sauce and add any desired toppings like lettuce, onion, pickles, or sesame seeds.
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Serve: If you want, set up a taco bar where everyone can customize their own Smash Burger Tacos, creating a fun and interactive dining experience!
Optional: Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Smash Burger Tacos
Feel free to get creative and make these smash burger tacos your own with these delightful twists!
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Chickpea Delight: Swap ground beef for mashed chickpeas for a hearty plant-based alternative. Ideal for vegetarian tacos packed with flavor!
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Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or creamy mozzarella for a milder experience. Each cheese brings its own unique charm.
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the beef mixture for a bold heat that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Garden Fresh: Top with fresh avocado slices or guacamole for a creamy element that complements the savory beef beautifully. It’s a burst of freshness in every bite!
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Custom Tortillas: Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free option that provides a different texture and flavor. A wholesome twist to your taco base!
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Sweet & Savory: Opt for grilled pineapple slices as an unexpected topping that brings a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. It’s a tropical vacation on your plate!
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Crunchy Extras: Add crispy bacon bits or tortilla strips for a satisfying crunch that elevates each bite to new heights of deliciousness. Crunch enthusiasts rejoice!
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Zesty Dressing: Drizzle with ranch or cilantro-lime dressing instead of the creamy sauce for a refreshing tang that elevates this comfort food classic. A zesty twist awaits!
With these variations, you can create endless combinations of smash burger tacos that satisfy all cravings and occasions!
Make Ahead Options
These Smash Burger Tacos are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the ground beef and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just ensure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container to maintain its juicy texture. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the fridge, helping the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef in a skillet, warm the tortillas, and assemble your tacos with cheese and toppings. This streamlined approach will save you time while delivering just as delicious results!
What to Serve with Smash Burger Tacos?
Create the perfect meal experience by adding complementary sides that bring out the best in your tacos.
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Crispy French Fries:
These golden fries add a nostalgic fast-food vibe, making every bite feel indulgent and fun. -
Fresh Side Salad:
A crisp salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette brightens up the meal, delivering freshness to counterbalance the savory tacos. -
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips:
Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy chips makes for a delightful appetizer that sets the stage for your taco feast. -
Coleslaw:
This crunchy, tangy side adds a refreshing taste that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the tacos. -
Pico de Gallo:
This fresh salsa provides a burst of flavor, offering bright acidity and texture to enhance your taco experience. -
Margaritas:
A refreshing mango or classic lime margarita can elevate your meal celebration, adding a festive touch to your dinner table.
With this delicious lineup, your Smash Burger Tacos will shine as the star of your meal!
How to Store and Freeze Smash Burger Tacos
Fridge: Keep any leftover cooked ground beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Assembled Tacos: Enjoy assembled Smash Burger Tacos immediately for the best texture. If needed, store components separately to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the beef in a skillet until heated through and toast tortillas lightly to bring back their crunch.
Expert Tips for Smash Burger Tacos
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Skillet Temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef; this ensures perfectly crispy smash burgers that are juicy inside.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid placing too much beef in the skillet at once. Crowding will lead to steaming instead of browning, compromising that delicious texture.
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Tortilla Toasting: Lightly toast the tortillas to add crunch yet keep them pliable. This will prevent them from tearing when you load them up.
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Customize Wisely: Although customizing toppings is great, balance flavors. Avoid overwhelming the taco with too many strong-flavored ingredients; find a balance for an enjoyable bite.
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Make-Ahead Beef: For convenience, cook the ground beef in advance and store it. This allows for quick assembly when you’re ready to enjoy Smash Burger Tacos.
Smash Burger Tacos Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for Smash Burger Tacos?
You can use regular ground beef for that juicy, classic flavor. For healthier options, try grass-fed beef or plant-based alternatives like lentils or chickpeas. I often prefer a blend with a bit of fat, around 80/20, for the best taste and moisture retention.
How should I store leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
It’s best to store any leftover cooked ground beef in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’ve assembled tacos, enjoy them immediately to maintain that wonderful crunch. If you need to store them, keep all components separate to avoid sogginess.
Can I freeze the cooked ground beef for Smash Burger Tacos?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked beef in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to reintroduce moisture.
What if my beef patties are too dry?
Don’t worry! If your patties turn out dry, it might be due to overcooking. To ensure juicy Smash Burger Tacos next time, cook the beef only until browned and no longer. You can also mix in a bit of finely chopped onion or bell pepper to add moisture. If you’ve already cooked them, try topping your tacos with a creamy sauce or avocado to counteract the dryness.
Can I make these Smash Burger Tacos vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based ground meat or even black beans for a hearty twist. If you’re going vegan, substitute the cheese with a plant-based version and the mayonnaise in the sauce with avocado or a vegan mayo. There are endless ways to customize while keeping it delicious!
How can I add more flavor to my Smash Burger Tacos?
Feel free to experiment with your burger seasoning! Adding minced garlic, smoked paprika, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce to your beef can enhance the flavor profile significantly. A variety of fresh toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime will also elevate your tacos while providing delightful bursts of freshness!
Irresistible Smash Burger Tacos You Need to Try Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, and hot sauce until smooth. Set aside to let flavors meld.
- Cook the Beef: Heat the neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the beef with burger seasoning and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toast Tortillas: Lightly toast the flour tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place cooked beef on each tortilla, top with a slice of cheese, drizzle with sauce, and add desired toppings.
- Serve: Set up a taco bar for customization, creating a fun dining experience!