why make this recipe
Easy Smash Burger Tacos combine the classic flavors of a smash burger with the convenience of tacos. They are fun to make and even more fun to eat! With crispy tortillas, juicy beef, and savory toppings, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste. It’s a delicious twist on two beloved dishes!
how to make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 fat percentage)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 cracks fresh black pepper
- 6 (six-inch) flour tortillas
- 6 slices muenster or provolone cheese
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped white onion
- Dill pickle chips (for topping)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 tablespoons minced bread & butter pickles
- 1 tablespoon pickle brine
- 10 cracks fresh black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
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Start by making the burger sauce. Add all the sauce ingredients to a bowl and whisk them together. Refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to use it. You can make it up to three days ahead.
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In a separate bowl, mix the salt and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the top and bottom of your ground beef. Turn the beef into 2 1/2 ounce balls, being gentle to avoid tough meat. Place the balls on a plate and refrigerate them until you preheat your flat top.
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Turn your flat top to high heat without greasing it. Let it get incredibly hot—hotter than you might think is necessary. This step is key for achieving crispy, juicy beef.
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Place each beef ball on the hot flat top and cover it with a tortilla. Use a smashing tool to press firmly down on each tortilla, flattening the meat as thin as possible. Cook for 1 minute, then press down again to release some fat and cook the edges properly. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.
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Use a stiff steel spatula to check if the burger is browned and crispy. If it’s not, increase the temperature of your grill. Once browned, flip the smash burger taco over so the tortilla side is down and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This step allows the tortilla to crisp up.
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Add cheese on top, allowing it to melt as the tortilla crisps. Remove from the heat, add your burger sauce and toppings, and enjoy!
how to serve Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Serve Easy Smash Burger Tacos warm, straight from the flat top. Place them on a serving platter with extra toppings like shredded lettuce, chopped onions, and dill pickles. Offer additional burger sauce on the side for dipping. They’re perfect for sharing and make a fun meal for family and friends.
how to store Easy Smash Burger Tacos
If you have any leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the cooked beef and tortillas in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat before serving. The toppings should also be stored separately to maintain their freshness.
tips to make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
- Make sure your flat top or skillet is really hot before cooking for the best caramelization.
- Use a firm pressing tool to get a nice flat layer of beef and help create those crispy edges.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings! Sliced tomatoes or avocado can add great flavor and texture.
variation
You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, try different cheeses or spice up the sauce for added flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
A1: While corn tortillas can be used, flour tortillas work best in this recipe because they are more absorbent and help the meat stick better.
Q2: Can I make the burger sauce ahead of time?
A2: Yes! The burger sauce can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Q3: How do I know when the beef is fully cooked?
A3: The beef should be browned and crispy on the edges. Using a spatula to check underneath can help you determine if they are ready to flip. Cooking for approximately 2-3 minutes after flipping helps ensure that they are fully cooked.
Q4: Can I add other toppings?
A4: Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or different kinds of sauces to personalize your tacos.
Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dice lettuce, tomatoes, and red onion; mix ingredients for special sauce if making homemade.
- Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions and lightly form into loose balls.
- Heat a large frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla on the pan, then immediately place a beef ball on top.
- Using a spatula, firmly smash the beef ball flat onto the tortilla and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until browned, then flip the burger-tortilla combo and immediately place a slice of cheese on the hot patty.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted and tortilla is crispy. Remove and top with lettuce, tomato, onion, and special sauce. Repeat for remaining tacos.