By This Smash Burger Tacos balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Smash Burger Tacos captures the essence of drinks while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Smash Burger Tacos becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Smash Burgers:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 small flour tortillas (street taco size)
6 slices cheddar or American cheese
1 tablespoon neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)
For the Burger Sauce:
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon pickle juice (or apple cider vinegar)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Toppings:
Shredded iceberg lettuce
Sliced dill pickles
Thinly sliced red onion
Diced tomatoes (optional)
Fresh jalapeño slices (optional)
PREPARATION STEPS
1. Make the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Stir well until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.
2. Shape the Beef Patties:
Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions (about 2-3 ounces each).
Roll them into loose balls; do not overwork the meat.
Season each ball lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Smash Burgers:
Heat a griddle, cast iron skillet, or large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a touch of oil.
Place 1 ball of ground beef on a tortilla.
Place the tortilla (with beef side down) directly onto the hot pan. Use a spatula to smash the beef flat, pressing it into the tortilla to spread thinly.
Let the tortilla-burger cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges of the beef start to caramelize.
Flip the taco over (beef side up), add a slice of cheese on top of the beef, and let it cook for another 1 minute until the cheese melts.
4. Assemble the Smash Burger Tacos:
Remove the tacos from the pan and place them on a plate, beef side up.
Spread a spoonful of the burger sauce over the melted cheese.
Top with shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, red onion, and any optional toppings like tomatoes or jalapeños.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these hot and fresh with extra burger sauce for dipping.
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 0 min | Total: 10 min | Servings: 2 | Calories: ~150 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Breakfast pastries; Light snacks; Fruit salad
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
