Smash Burger Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smash Burger Tacos combine the juicy, crispy goodness of a classic smash burger with the handheld joy of a taco. It’s the ultimate mashup — a sizzling beef patty smashed directly onto a tortilla, seared to perfection, and loaded with all your favorite burger toppings. This recipe is fast, fun, and delivers big flavor in every bite. Great for family dinners, cookouts, or late-night cravings, these tacos are destined to become a repeat favorite.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 small flour tortillas
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup pickles, sliced
¼ cup diced onions
¼ cup shredded lettuce
2 tablespoons burger sauce or mayo
Cooking spray or oil for the pan

Directions

  1. Divide ground beef into 6 equal balls (about 2.5 oz each). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Place a tortilla on the hot pan, then immediately top with one beef ball.
  4. Smash the beef ball flat over the tortilla using a spatula or burger press. Press firmly so the meat spreads thin and fuses with the tortilla.
  5. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the beef browns and crisps. Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until tortilla is golden.
  6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the cooked beef side. Let it melt slightly.
  7. Remove from pan and repeat with remaining tortillas and beef.
  8. Top each taco with pickles, onions, lettuce, and a drizzle of burger sauce or mayo.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy immediately!

Servings and Timing

Serves: 3 (2 tacos per person)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or spicy mayo.
  • Bacon Lovers: Add crispy bacon bits on top.
  • Cheese Swap: Use American, pepper jack, or Swiss for different flavor.
  • Vegan Version: Use plant-based beef, cheese, and mayo.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.
To reheat, place on a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep tortillas crispy.
Best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas?
Yes, but flour tortillas hold up better during smashing and cooking.

What kind of beef works best?
80/20 ground beef gives the best flavor and crispiness.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients in advance, but smash and cook tacos fresh for best texture.

What sauce goes well with this?
Burger sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup all pair great!

Conclusion

Smash Burger Tacos are the ultimate comfort food crossover — crispy, juicy, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying. With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, they’re perfect for any night of the week. Give them a try and watch them disappear in seconds!

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