Smash Burger Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you can’t decide between burgers and tacos, this recipe gives you the best of both worlds. Smash Burger Tacos are quick to prepare, fun to assemble, and irresistibly flavorful. The beef gets those signature crispy edges from the smash technique, while the tortilla holds everything together without the need for buns. They’re ideal for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual gatherings—ready in minutes and customizable to your liking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• Small flour or corn tortillas
• American cheese slices (or your preferred melting cheese)
• Salt and black pepper
• Lettuce, shredded
• Pickles, sliced
• Onions, finely chopped
• Burger sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and relish mixture)
• Cooking oil or nonstick spray

Directions

1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface.
2. Roll the ground beef into small balls, about 2–3 ounces each.
3. Place a tortilla on the skillet, then set a beef ball in the center.
4. Using a flat spatula or burger press, firmly smash the beef into the tortilla until it’s thin and spread nearly to the edges.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until the beef is crispy on the edges.
6. Flip the taco carefully, letting the beef side cook for another 1–2 minutes.
7. Add a slice of cheese on top of the beef side and allow it to melt slightly.
8. Remove from the skillet and assemble your taco with lettuce, pickles, onions, and burger sauce.
9. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 tacos.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Smash Burger Tacos: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat.
• Double Smash Version: Stack two smashed beef patties on one tortilla for a heartier meal.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix cheeses like cheddar and pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
• Breakfast Twist: Top with a fried egg and crispy bacon for a morning-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

Smash Burger Tacos are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them on a skillet over medium heat to keep the tortillas crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tacos soggy. Store the toppings and sauce separately for best results.

FAQs

What kind of ground beef works best?

An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) gives the best flavor and crispy texture for smash burgers.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, but make sure to warm them well so they’re pliable and don’t crack when smashed.

How do I get the beef crispy?

Cook on a hot skillet and press firmly when smashing. Don’t overcrowd the pan so the beef sears properly.

Can I make these in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but smash and cook the beef fresh for the best taste and texture.

What’s the best cheese for Smash Burger Tacos?

American cheese melts beautifully, but cheddar, Colby Jack, or pepper jack also work great.

How do I make the burger sauce?

Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and a little pickle relish for a classic tangy sauce.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?

Yes, you can substitute with lean ground poultry, but it won’t get as crispy as beef.

What toppings go well with Smash Burger Tacos?

Lettuce, onions, pickles, and burger sauce are classic, but you can also add tomatoes, jalapeños, or crispy bacon.

Can I cook these on an outdoor griddle or grill?

Absolutely. A griddle like a Blackstone is perfect for achieving that crispy sear on multiple tacos at once.

Are Smash Burger Tacos gluten-free?

Use corn tortillas and check your condiments to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Conclusion

Smash Burger Tacos are the ultimate blend of two comfort food favorites—juicy burgers and flavorful tacos. They’re quick, customizable, and packed with all the crave-worthy elements of a classic cheeseburger in taco form. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for an easy dinner idea, this fun, fusion-style recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Smash Burger Tacos

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Smash Burger Tacos combine the crispy, juicy goodness of a classic smash burger with the convenience and flavor of tacos. This fun fusion dish is quick to make, customizable, and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 tacos
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Griddle
• Cuisine: American Fusion
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 6 small flour or corn tortillas
• 6 slices American cheese (or preferred melting cheese)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup sliced pickles
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
• 1/2 cup burger sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and relish mixture)
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil or nonstick spray

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Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
2. Roll the ground beef into small balls, about 2–3 ounces each.
3. Place a tortilla on the skillet and set a beef ball in the center.
4. Using a flat spatula or burger press, firmly smash the beef into the tortilla until it’s thin and nearly reaches the edges.
5. Season with salt and black pepper and cook for 2–3 minutes until crispy on the edges.
6. Flip carefully and cook the beef side for another 1–2 minutes.
7. Place a slice of cheese on top of the beef and let it melt slightly.
8. Remove from skillet and top each taco with lettuce, pickles, onions, and burger sauce.
9. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• For extra crispy beef, make sure your skillet is hot before smashing the patties.
• Customize toppings with bacon, tomatoes, or jalapeños.
• Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb option.
• Best enjoyed fresh; store leftovers for up to 2 days and reheat on a skillet.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 taco
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg