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Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

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3.9 from 55 reviews

These Smash Burger Tacos are a delightful fusion of crispy, flavorful ground beef patties smashed thin inside warm corn tortillas, topped with melty American cheese and classic burger garnishes. Made with a tangy homemade sauce and cooked on the stovetop for a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for taco night or casual gatherings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe serves 8 and brings the best of smash burgers into taco form.

Ingredients

Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1½ tablespoons dill pickle relish (OR finely chopped dill pickles)

Burgers

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (you can also use 80/20)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 slices American cheese sliced in half

Tacos & Garnishes

  • 8 corn tortillas (5 inches)
  • Lettuce
  • Tomato (diced)
  • Pickles
  • Onion (diced)

Instructions

  1. Make The Sauce And Prep Your Workspace: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and dill pickle relish. Mix thoroughly and chill the sauce in the refrigerator. Peel the American cheese slices and cut each slice in half. Arrange cheese halves near the stove on a clean platter for easy access. Prepare all garnishes like lettuce, diced tomato, pickles, and diced onion in bowls so everything is ready to assemble once the burgers start cooking.
  2. Prepping The Smash Burgers: In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender. Divide the meat mixture into eight equal portions and roll each into a ball.
  3. Forming The Smash Burger Tacos Without A Burger Press: Place one ball of meat between two pieces of parchment paper along with a 5-inch corn tortilla. Using a rolling pin or a heavy can, gently roll the meat flat to match the size of the tortilla. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid tearing the tortilla. If the meat extends beyond the tortilla, redistribute it to areas with less meat to maintain an even layer. Repeat for all eight tortillas and meat balls.
  4. Cooking The Smash Burger Tacos: Heat a large skillet, flat top grill, or electric skillet over medium-high heat and lightly spray with cooking spray. Once hot, place one or two prepared tacos meat-side down on the skillet, leaving at least an inch of space between them. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the meat is crispy and browned.
  5. Melting Cheese and Warming Tacos: Flip each taco so the tortilla side is now down. Immediately place half a piece of cheese over the cooked meat side. Cook for an additional 10 to 20 seconds so the cheese melts and the corn tortilla warms slightly. Fold each taco in half and let it cook folded for a few seconds on each side to seal and heat through. Transfer to a clean platter and cover with a paper towel or lid to keep warm. Repeat this cooking process in batches, spraying the skillet as needed until all tacos are cooked.
  6. Serve: Serve the smash burger tacos hot with the chilled sauce and prepared garnishes on the side. Allow everyone to add toppings to their preference. Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy smashed beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings in every bite!

Notes

  • Be gentle when smashing the beef onto the tortillas to prevent tearing the corn tortillas.
  • Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes rolling out the meat easier.
  • Cooking in batches ensures even cooking and proper space between tacos for crispiness.
  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for variations.
  • Prepare garnishes ahead of time since the cooking process moves quickly once you start.
  • If you like, add a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/smash-burger-tacos-recipe/