why make this recipe
Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on the traditional burger. With the juicy taste of a burger wrapped in a soft tortilla, these tacos are packed with flavor and are sure to impress family and friends. They are quick to make and perfect for a casual dinner or a party. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings.
how to make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill pickles
- 1/2 teaspoon pickle juice
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 6 slices American cheese
- 6 flour tortillas (street taco size)
- Shredded lettuce
- Burger pickles
- (Optional) other toppings: bacon, white onions
- Burger press
- Burger patty paper squares
Directions
Add the burger sauce ingredients—mayo, ketchup, dill pickles, pickle juice, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, soy sauce, and rice vinegar—to a small bowl. Stir until well combined and set aside.
In another bowl, mix the ground beef with salt and pepper. Divide the mixture into 6 equal-sized balls and set them aside.
Prepare your tortillas, cheese, and toppings like shredded lettuce and burger pickles. This step is important because the cooking process goes quickly.
Preheat your flat top griddle to medium-high heat. Place the beef balls on the griddle. Use a burger press to flatten each ball into a patty, pressing down for about 15-20 seconds per patty. Let them cook for 40 seconds.
Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each one. At the same time, add the tortillas to the griddle. Close the lid and let the burgers cook for approximately 2 minutes.
Open the lid, flip the tortillas, and use a spatula to lift the patties and place them on the toasted tortillas. Transfer to a plate.
Top with shredded lettuce, burger sauce, and pickles. You can also add bacon and thin white onions if you like. Enjoy!
how to serve Smash Burger Tacos
Serve Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they are warm. You can offer extra toppings on the side so everyone can customize their tacos. They are great for gatherings, casual dinners, or even game day snacks.
how to store Smash Burger Tacos
If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. Place the cooked patties in one container, tortillas in another, and toppings in a third. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the patties and tortillas before serving again for the best taste.
tips to make Smash Burger Tacos
- Use high-fat content ground beef (80/20) for juicier patties.
- Make your burger sauce ahead of time for added flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking of the patties; let them sizzle to get a nice crust.
- For less mess, use burger patty paper squares when pressing the patties.
variation
You can switch up the flavors by using different cheeses, or trying spicy condiments like sriracha in the sauce. Using different toppings, such as grilled vegetables or avocado, can also add variety to your Smash Burger Tacos.
FAQs
1. Can I make the burger sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the burger sauce a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
2. What can I use instead of American cheese?
You can use any cheese that melts well, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
3. How can I make this healthier?
To make healthier tacos, consider using leaner ground beef or turkey. You can also increase the veggies by adding diced tomatoes, spinach, or avocado as toppings.
Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients
For the Burger Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill pickles
- 1/2 teaspoon pickle juice
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
For the Tacos
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20) Use high-fat content for juiciness.
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt For seasoning the beef.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper For seasoning the beef.
- 6 slices American cheese Or any cheese that melts well.
- 6 pieces flour tortillas (street taco size) Ensure they’re warm before serving.
- Shredded lettuce For topping.
- Burger pickles For topping.
- Optional other toppings: bacon, white onions Customize as desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, add the burger sauce ingredients: mayo, ketchup, dill pickles, pickle juice, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir until well combined and set aside.
- In another bowl, mix the ground beef with 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Divide the mixture into 6 equal-sized balls and set aside.
- Prepare your tortillas, cheese, and toppings like shredded lettuce and burger pickles.
Cooking
- Preheat your flat top griddle to medium-high heat. Place the beef balls on the griddle. Use a burger press to flatten each ball into a patty, pressing down for about 15-20 seconds per patty. Let them cook for 40 seconds.
- Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each one. Add the tortillas to the griddle and close the lid. Let the burgers cook for approximately 2 minutes.
- Open the lid, flip the tortillas, and use a spatula to lift the patties and place them on the toasted tortillas. Transfer to a plate.
Serving
- Top the tacos with shredded lettuce, burger sauce, and pickles. Add bacon and thin white onions if desired. Serve immediately while warm.