Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

If you love burgers and tacos, this is the recipe you never knew you needed! Smash burger tacos combine the best of both worlds—crispy-edged beef, melty cheese, tangy pickles, and a special burger sauce all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. They’re perfect for those times when you can’t decide between two classics, or if you just want something fun and new to serve at home. Plus, they’re surprisingly quick to make!

I first came across this recipe on a whim when I was in the mood for a burger but didn’t have any burger buns. All I had was a stack of tortillas and a pound of ground beef. I decided to “smash” the beef right onto the tortilla, almost like making a smash burger but with a twist. The result? A crispy, juicy burger layered with flavors, all neatly tucked into a taco. And let me tell you, it was an instant hit! My family keeps asking for it, and I’ve found myself making these on repeat ever since.

this RECIPE

The origin story: from burgers to tacos in one smash

The “smash burger” technique originated in the Midwest and is all about creating that beautiful crust by smashing the beef directly onto a hot griddle. But why stop at buns? This recipe borrows that technique, then combines it with taco-inspired assembly to create a whole new kind of comfort food. You still get the satisfying crunch of a classic smash burger, but with the added portability and fun of a taco. With some crisp iceberg lettuce, diced onions, pickles, and a quick homemade burger sauce, these smash burger tacos might just become a new weeknight staple.

Let’s talk ingredients: keeping it simple and flavorful

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor, from the juicy beef to the tangy sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef: Go for lean ground beef here (around 85% lean) to avoid too much grease, which can make the tortilla soggy. If you’re in a pinch, ground turkey or chicken can work, but beef gives that classic smash burger taste.
• Flour tortillas: Standard 6-inch flour tortillas work best for holding the beef and toppings. They crisp up nicely on the skillet but remain soft enough to fold in half like a taco. Corn tortillas can be used, but they won’t achieve the same “burger bun” feel.
• American cheese: Melty, creamy American cheese is a must for that classic burger vibe. You could swap in cheddar or even pepper jack for a bit of heat, but American cheese gives the best melt factor.
• Onion: Dice it finely to sprinkle on top. Red onions add a bit of sweetness, but yellow or white onions work great, too.
• Pickle chips: Dill pickles add a nice tangy crunch that balances the richness of the beef and cheese. You could also try bread-and-butter pickles if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
• Iceberg lettuce: Shredded iceberg gives a refreshing crunch. Romaine works in a pinch, but iceberg has that classic “burger lettuce” vibe.
• Burger sauce: This simple sauce made with mayo, Dijon mustard, relish, and spices is the secret to tying everything together. It’s creamy, tangy, and tastes just like a Big Mac sauce.

Kitchen gear: keeping it simple but effective

You don’t need much to make these smash burger tacos, but a few tools will make the process smoother:

• Large skillet or griddle: A cast-iron skillet works best because it retains heat well, which is essential for getting that nice crispy crust on the beef. But any heavy-bottomed skillet will do the trick.
• Spatula: Use a sturdy spatula for pressing the beef into the tortilla. The smash technique is all about getting a thin, crispy layer, so a solid spatula helps you press down evenly.
• Mixing bowl: You’ll need this for whisking together your burger sauce. Nothing fancy required here!
• Tongs: These are helpful for flipping the tacos and managing the cooking process without burning yourself.

Step-by-step: making smash burger tacos (and having fun with it!)

1. Make the burger sauce

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 4 tablespoons of pickle relish, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of sugar, ½ tablespoon of white vinegar, 1¼ teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon each of onion powder and garlic powder. Stir it all together until smooth, then set it aside. This sauce really pulls everything together, so don’t skip it!

2. Portion the ground beef

Divide your 1 pound of ground beef into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball—this makes it easier to smash evenly over the tortillas later on.

3. Spread beef onto the tortillas

Place a tortilla on your work surface and spread one portion of ground beef evenly across it, making sure to cover the whole surface. This ensures that every bite is packed with juicy beef. Season the meat side generously with salt and pepper.

4. Cook the smash burger tacos

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil to coat the surface. Carefully place the tortilla with the beef side down onto the hot skillet. Use your spatula to press down on the tortilla for a few seconds—this helps create that delicious crispy crust. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until you see a golden-brown crust forming.

5. Flip and add cheese

Once the beef side has that perfect crust, flip the tortilla over and immediately top it with a slice of cheese. Let it cook for another 1-3 minutes until the tortilla is nice and crisp but not burned. This step is key to getting that perfect texture balance between crispy beef and a soft, foldable tortilla.

6. Assemble the tacos

Remove each smash burger taco from the skillet and set them on a plate. Spread a dollop of the burger sauce over the cheese, then sprinkle on the diced onions, shredded lettuce, and a few pickle chips. Fold it up, and you’re ready to dig in!

Fun variations to try

• Spicy kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the burger sauce for some heat. You could also swap in pepper jack cheese for extra spice.
• Bacon smash burger tacos: Crisp up a few slices of bacon and add them to the tacos for a smoky, savory boost.
• Southwestern twist: Add a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the beef before cooking, and replace the pickles with jalapeño slices.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based ground meat, vegan cheese, and vegan mayo in the sauce. It might not crisp up exactly the same, but it still tastes delicious!
• Low-carb version: Use a low-carb tortilla or lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas for a lighter version.

Serving and presentation tips

Serve these smash burger tacos fresh off the skillet for the best flavor and texture. You can present them on a platter, folded and topped with a little extra shredded lettuce and diced onions for color. A side of extra burger sauce in a small bowl makes for easy dipping. For a party vibe, consider setting up a mini topping bar so everyone can customize their own tacos with extra cheese, jalapeños, or even crispy fried onions.

Drink pairings: what goes best with smash burger tacos?

• Beer: A cold, crisp lager or pale ale pairs wonderfully with the richness of these tacos, balancing out the flavors.
• Soda: A classic cola or root beer has that nostalgic feel and cuts through the savory flavors.
• Margarita: For a fun twist, try a margarita on the rocks—it’s a great complement to the slight taco vibe of these smash burger tacos!

Storing and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (which might be unlikely!), you can store the assembled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. For reheating, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to keep the tortilla crisp and the cheese melty. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortilla too soft.

Scaling the recipe for a crowd

This recipe easily doubles or triples if you’re cooking for a crowd. Just be mindful of skillet space, as you may need to cook in batches. When scaling up, you might also want to make a double batch of the burger sauce—it tends to go fast!

Troubleshooting tips

• Tortilla too soft: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before placing the tortilla. This will help it crisp up rather than steam.
• Cheese not melting: Cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two after adding the cheese. The trapped heat helps melt the cheese faster.

Give it a try—your tastebuds will thank you!

These smash burger tacos are a fun, flavorful way to shake up your usual dinner routine. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. So why not give them a go? Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, they’re sure to be a hit. And don’t forget to make extra sauce—it’s bound to be a favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour? A: You can, but the texture will be different. Flour tortillas get crispy but stay soft enough to fold like a taco.

Q: Can I make the burger sauce ahead of time? A: Absolutely! The sauce actually tastes better if it has time to sit, so feel free to make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

Q: What’s the best cheese to use? A: American cheese melts beautifully, but cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack would work too if you prefer a different flavor.

Q: How can I make this recipe healthier? A: Try using leaner beef or a plant-based alternative. You can also use low-fat mayo in the sauce and low-carb tortillas.

Q: How do I keep the tortilla from getting soggy? A: Use lean ground beef and a hot skillet to avoid excess grease, which can make the tortilla soggy. Also, eat the tacos fresh for the best texture!

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