Smash Burger Tacos blend everything we love about burgers and tacos into one hearty, flavor-packed treat. Picture this: juicy burger meat, crispy tortillas, and your favorite taco toppings all wrapped up for a delicious bite. They’re so easy to make that you might find yourself whipping them up weekly. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a fun gathering with friends, these tacos are bound to impress everyone at the table.
Creating Smash Burger Tacos gives you a chance to play with flavors and textures, satisfying cravings for both burgers and tacos at once. As you cook, the sizzling meat fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that could make anyone’s stomach growl. Plus, the vibrant toppings like fresh lettuce and zesty pickles will elevate each taco, making them look as good as they taste. Trust me, once you try these, they will quickly become a favorite in your household—a simple yet exciting way to mix up your meal routine!
Why This Recipe Works
Smash Burger Tacos bring together the best of both worlds—a juicy smash burger flavor wrapped in a convenient taco. This fusion allows for a delightful eating experience that elevates your weekly meal rotation. The seasoning on the beef and the crispy tortilla combines with fresh toppings, creating layers of texture and taste that are irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Smash Burger Tacos
These Smash Burger Tacos aren’t just another taco recipe; they offer a unique twist that will excite your palate. With the creamy homemade sauce inspired by classic fast food, coupled with melted cheese and fresh veggies, this recipe infuses nostalgia into each bite. Perfect for parties, quick dinners, or a fun family night, these tacos tick all the boxes for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoons pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 flour tortillas (6 inches)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
- 4 slices American cheese (or your preferred burger cheese)
- 1 small onion, diced
- Dill pickle chips
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
Preparing the Special Sauce
Whisk Together Mayonnaise and Relish
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise with 4 tablespoons of pickle relish. Mix until smooth.
Add Mustard and Seasonings
Stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and ½ tablespoon of white vinegar. Blend well.
Final Seasoning Touch
Incorporate 1 ¼ teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder into the mixture. Whisk until fully combined and set aside.
Cooking the Smash Burger Tacos
Portion the Ground Beef
Divide 1 pound of lean ground beef into 4 equal amounts, rolling them into balls.
Prepare the Tortillas
Lay one flour tortilla flat on your work surface and evenly spread one portion of ground beef over its surface.
Season the Beef
Sprinkle the exposed beef surface generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat the Skillet
Warm a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, adding 1 tablespoon of neutral oil until heated.
Cook the Beef Side Down
Carefully place the tortilla with the meat-side down onto the skillet. Gently press down with a spatula to form a thin patty.
Achieve Golden-Brown Perfection
Let the patty cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing a delicious golden-brown crust to form, then flip.
Melt the Cheese
Top the flipped patty with a slice of cheese and cook for an additional 1 to 3 minutes until desired tortilla crispiness is achieved.
Repeat Cooking Process
Transfer the finished Smash Burger Taco off the heat and repeat the process for the remaining tortillas and beef.
Assembling Your Smash Burger Tacos
Add the Special Sauce
Spread the prepared sauce generously onto each taco.
Layer on Fresh Ingredients
Top with shredded iceberg lettuce, diced onions, and dill pickle chips.
Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your Smash Burger Tacos on a platter and serve immediately for the best flavor experience!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Smash Burger Tacos with crispy fries or a fresh side salad. They also complement well with a chilled soda or a refreshing beer for the perfect meal.
Tips for Success
- Use lean ground beef for a balanced flavor and less grease.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough to create that irresistible crust on the taco.
- Experiment with additional toppings, like diced tomatoes or jalapeños, for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Make it vegetarian by using black beans or a plant-based meat substitute.
Pairing Ideas
Consider serving these tacos alongside creamy coleslaw or homemade guacamole. A side of salsa can also enhance the experience with extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make the special sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The special sauce can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the cooked tacos?
It’s best to store assembled tacos in the fridge. If frozen, wrap them tightly and consume within a month.
What can I substitute for the tortillas?
You can use corn tortillas or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option.
How do I achieve the perfect crispy taco?
Make sure your skillet is sufficiently hot and coat it lightly with oil to enhance crispiness.
What drinks pair well with Smash Burger Tacos?
Consider pairing these tacos with iced tea, margaritas, or any IPA for a refreshing contrast.
Indulging in Smash Burger Tacos creates not only a delicious meal but also an exciting experience that bridges two beloved cuisines. With layers of flavor and texture, each bite takes you on a nostalgic journey while maintaining a fresh twist on classic comfort food. Enjoy these tacos as a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire!
PrintSmash Burger Tacos
Smash Burger Tacos combine the flavors of burgers and tacos into one delightful dish. They’re easy to make and perfect for gatherings or quick dinners.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoons pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 flour tortillas (6 inches)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
- 4 slices American cheese (or your preferred burger cheese)
- 1 small onion, diced
- Dill pickle chips
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
Instructions
- Whisk mayonnaise and pickle relish together until smooth.
- Stir in mustard, sugar, and vinegar, then blend well.
- Add paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, whisk until combined.
- Divide ground beef into 4 equal balls.
- Spread one portion of beef on a tortilla, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet with oil, then place tortilla meat-side down, pressing down.
- Cook until golden-brown, then flip and add cheese on top.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and beef.
- Spread sauce on each taco and add toppings.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Use lean ground beef for optimal flavor and less grease.
Ensure the skillet is hot enough to create a crispy crust.
Experiment with toppings like diced tomatoes or jalapeños for added spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 26
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 14
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 19
- Cholesterol: 70