Dive into the fun world of smash burger tacos! Spice up your meal time with this easy, tasty twist on a classic favorite.

What Are Smash Burger Tacos?

Have you ever wondered what would happen if tacos and burgers had a delicious little food baby? Enter smash burger tacos! These fun, quirky creations are the best of both worlds, combining the juicy goodness of a burger with the portability and flair of a taco. It’s like a party in your mouth and everyone’s invited!

The Origins of Smash Burger Tacos

Smash burger tacos have taken social media by storm, and for good reason. Viral smash burger tacos bring together the essential elements of smash burgers and tacos into a single, flavorful bite. Originally inspired by traditional smash burgers—which use high heat to create a crisp, browned crust on a thin patty—these tacos up the ante by adding a crispy tortilla twist. It’s a culinary mash-up that’s become a fan favorite for taco night and beyond.

Why They’re a Hit

Why have smash burger tacos become such a favorite thing? It’s all about fun, flavor, and convenience. They offer a new way to enjoy the familiar comfort of burgers without the mess, perfect for a family dinner or a quick bite. Plus, they’re easy to customize.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Beef
Salt and Pepper
Small Flour Tortillas
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Cooking Oil

Sauce Ingredients

Mayonnaise
Dill Pickle Relish
Dijon Mustard
White Vinegar
Paprika, Onion, and Garlic Powder

Toppings

Shredded Iceberg Lettuce: 1 cup for that fresh, crisp bite.
Chopped Onions: ¼ cup of either red or white onions, your choice, to add a touch of sharpness.

How to Make Smash Burger Tacos

Prepare the Beef Patties: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Divide it into 8 balls. Place each ball on a tortilla and flatten it with a burger press. Get ready to turn these into thin patties!

Cook the Patties: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. A little drizzle of olive oil will ensure nothing sticks. Place the tortilla meat-side down on the hot pan. Press down the beef with a spatula, creating a thin patty that covers the tortilla. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the edges are browned.

Cheese It Up: Flip the tortilla and immediately sprinkle a cheesy layer on the beef side. Let the cheese slices melt into a gooey paradise. Cover the skillet to speed up the magic.

Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, mustard, vinegar, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth. This homemade burger sauce is your special topping touch.

Assemble the Tacos: On top of the beef patty, add shredded iceberg lettuce and chopped onions. Drizzle with the special sauce. Fold it into a taco shape, and there you have it—a smash burger taco recipe that brings together the best of both worlds.

Smash Burger Tacos Variations

Smash Burger Tacos are already a flavor-packed treat, but who says you can’t jazz them up even more?

Protein Swap: Turkey and Beyond

Why stick to beef when there are so many other tasty options? Try ground turkey for a leaner version. It cooks just as quickly on a hot skillet, offering a juicy burger experience with a lighter twist. Prefer some spice? Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick that’ll keep your taste buds dancing.

Ground Chicken: A mild, tasty option that works well with a dollop of sour cream and pico de gallo.
Plant-Based: Go green with a veggie burger mix. Top with avocado slices and dill pickles for a fresh flavor burst.

Taco Toppings: Beyond the Basics

Sure, lettuce and onions have their charm, but let’s explore the treasure chest of toppings! Imagine layers of crispy beef and gooey cheese, crowned with your favorite burger toppings.

Caramelized Onions: Sweeten the deal with onions cooked until golden. They add a rich depth to your tacos.
Sesame Seeds: Give your tacos a Big Mac makeover by sprinkling some on the edge of the tortilla.
Pico de Gallo: Freshen up with this juicy mix, perfect for adding a little zing.

Cheese Choices: Mix It Up

Cheddar Cheese: Offers a sharp, bold flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef patty.
American Cheese: Goes classic with a creamy texture that’s as much a hug in a taco as cheese can be.
Pepper Jack Cheese: For those who like a bit of heat, this spicy number will do the trick.

Sauce Sensations: Special Flavors

The sauce is the secret hero of any taco. While the traditional special sauce is delightful, other combinations can take your tacos to new heights.

Homemade Big Mac Sauce: A mix of mayo, relish, and yellow mustard for an iconic taste twist.
Hot Sauce Drizzle: Add a fiery flair that complements the crispy tortilla and beef side.
Sweet Pickle Relish: Brightens up flavors, balancing the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.

Tortilla Choices: Flour or Corn?

Usually, flour tortillas are the go-to for their soft texture, but if you want a crunchier bite, consider trying corn tortillas. They lend a nutty flavor and create a contrast with the tender beef patty.

Corn Tortillas: Give a rustic, earthy taste that works well with cheeseburger tacos.
Whole Wheat: For a fiber-rich option, making your tacos not just tasty but a bit healthier too.

Tips and Tricks

Picking Your Protein

Choosing the right cut of beef is crucial. If you like a juicy burger, consider using lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor. Want a healthier twist? Ground turkey can make a delicious alternative, bringing a lighter touch to your thin patty.

Perfect Smash Technique

Getting that crispy tortilla edge and perfectly thin beef patty is all about the smash. Remember these tips:

Flat Surface: Use a large skillet or hot griddle for even cooking. A large cast iron skillet is ideal.
Burger Press: Or an everyday spatula will work wonders. Apply even pressure on top of the burger ball for a consistent patty size.
Cook Quickly: Aim for 1-2 minutes per side. Press the patty firmly but not aggressively, just enough to get those little crispy beef bits along the taco edge.

Melty Cheese Magic

Who doesn’t love a good cheese melt? Opt for a slice of cheddar cheese or American cheese if you prefer a more classic burger taste. For that oozy goodness, place the cheese on the tortilla side of the patty right after flipping. Cover with a lid to help the cheese slices melt perfectly over the beef. It’s like a hug for your burger!

Topping Tips

When it comes to toppings, keep things fresh and simple. Iceberg lettuce adds crunch, while red onions or white onions can bring a sweet and tangy bite. Consider adding dill pickles or some pico de gallo for a vibrant twist. Don’t forget to experiment with favorite burger toppings, like sour cream or sesame seeds, for a personal touch.

Serving and Storing

Once your smashburger tacos recipe is perfected, serve them immediately for the best flavor. If you’ve got leftovers, keep them fresh in an airtight container. But let’s be real—these are so tasty, there might not be any leftover tacos to worry about!

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