Name: Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 8 small flour or low-carb tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese; Shredded lettuce; Diced pickles; Diced onions; Burger sauce

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If you love the juicy, crispy edges of a classic smash burger but want to shake things up, this Smash Burger Tacos Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the best of both worlds, it transforms seasoned ground beef into perfectly smashed, pan-seared patties right on warm tortillas, creating handheld bundles of flavor that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Topped with melty cheese and all your favorite burger fixings, these tacos deliver mouthwatering satisfaction with every bite that will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six steps of making a small wrap on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. First, there is a flat round tortilla with pinkish ground meat being spread by a woman's hand. Next, the meat is pressed flat and shaped evenly on the tortilla by the woman's hand. Then, a white soft tortilla is placed on top of the meat layer, with the woman's hand pressing it down. The fourth step shows the top tortilla cooked to a light golden brown. In the fifth step, the cooked tortilla is topped with melted yellow and white cheese, with some dark melted spots. The final step shows the wrap loaded with fresh green lettuce, red tomato pieces, white sauce, and shredded cheese on top. The scene is well lit and clear. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color in your Smash Burger Tacos Recipe. From the savory notes of seasoned beef to the fresh crunch of toppings, every element works together to elevate this dish.

1 lb ground beef: Use fresh, quality beef for juicy, flavorful patties with the ideal fat content for crisp edges.
8 small flour or low-carb tortillas: Choose your favorite to hold all the savory goodness comfortably.
1 tsp salt: Essential for amplifying the beef’s natural flavor.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a subtle aromatic punch that complements the meat.
1 tsp onion powder: Balances the garlic with a touch of sweetness and savoriness.
1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese: Melts beautifully over the patties for that classic burger gooeyness.
Toppings (shredded lettuce, diced pickles, diced onions, burger sauce): Add texture, freshness, and that signature burger flavor boost.

How to Make Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Balls

Start by rolling your ground beef into small balls of about 2 tablespoons each. Keeping the portions even ensures each taco boasts the perfect patty size and cooks uniformly. This step makes smashing and cooking a breeze later.

Step 2: Heat the Pan and Tortillas

Place a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready to sear your patties. Lay a tortilla flat on the pan—this will serve as the base for your smashed burger, allowing the meat juices to mingle with the warm, soft tortilla for a fantastic flavor boost.

Step 3: Smash the Beef onto the Tortilla

Place one beef ball onto the tortilla and immediately smash it firmly with a spatula. This technique creates those signature crispy edges packed with intense flavor. The meat spreads thinly over the tortilla, promoting faster, even cooking and that irresistible crust.

Step 4: Season and Cook

Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly over the smashed patties. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crusty. Flip carefully and cook the other side for the same time, ensuring a juicy interior and seared exterior.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish

When you flip the patties for the last time, sprinkle shredded cheddar or American cheese on top so it melts beautifully. Once melted, fold the tortilla slightly and remove from the pan. This layering of melted cheese and crispy beef on a soft tortilla is the magic that makes this Smash Burger Tacos Recipe so addictive.

Step 6: Top and Serve

Add your favorite burger toppings—shredded lettuce, diced pickles, diced onions, and a generous drizzle of burger sauce. These layers add fresh crunch, tang, and creamy richness to round out the taste perfectly.

How to Serve Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

Three soft tortillas lay on a white marbled surface, each topped with several layers. The bottom layer is a smooth, dark black bean spread, evenly covering the tortillas. On top, there are small orange chunks of what looks like cooked squash, scattered across. The next layer is finely shredded green and white cabbage, adding texture and a fresh look. A sauce with a creamy light brown color is drizzled on top of the cabbage on some tortillas. An off-white bowl with more of this sauce sits nearby, partially visible. A woman's hand holds one of the tortillas from the upper right, with the fingers gently gripping its edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Think beyond the basics: crisp shredded lettuce adds refreshing crunch, diced pickles bring zesty tang, and raw diced onions lend a sharp bite. Top it all with a drizzle of your favorite burger sauce or a tangy special sauce to finish each taco off with a burst of creamy, savory goodness that perfectly complements the beef.

Side Dishes

Pairing these tacos with classic fries, crispy onion rings, or even a light coleslaw provides a perfect contrast to all those savory, melty flavors. For a healthier touch, a simple side salad or grilled veggies brighten the meal and keep things balanced without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your Smash Burger Tacos Recipe by serving them family-style on a big wooden board surrounded by colorful bowls of extra toppings and sauces. Encourage everyone to customize their own taco masterpiece. You can also wrap them in parchment paper for a fun, casual handheld treat that’s perfect for gatherings or game day vibes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover cooked smash burger patties and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the patties from getting soggy and tortillas soft for the next day. Leftovers stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, you can freeze the smashed patties flat on parchment-lined trays before transferring them to freezer bags. Tortillas freeze great too when wrapped tightly. Both components can be stored frozen for up to 1 month without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the patties in a hot skillet to revive their crispy edges, and warm the tortillas wrapped in foil in the oven or in a microwave wrapped with a damp paper towel. This helps retain moisture while giving you nearly fresh-off-the-grill taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat in this Smash Burger Tacos Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes can work well if you adjust cooking times slightly. Just remember that beef’s fat content is key to the crispy edges, so lower-fat meats may need a bit of added oil or butter in the pan.

What tortilla works best for these tacos?

Small flour tortillas are perfect for the soft, gentle hold they provide, but corn tortillas or low-carb alternatives like almond flour tortillas also make delicious bases depending on your preference or dietary needs.

Can I make these Smash Burger Tacos Recipe spicy?

Definitely! Try adding sliced jalapeños, a spicy burger sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat seasoning. These tweaks add a great kick without overpowering the rich beef flavors.

Is there a secret to getting the perfect crust on the patties?

The key is a hot pan and firm, quick smashing right after placing the beef ball on the tortilla. Avoid moving the patties too early; let them cook undisturbed to caramelize the edges and lock in flavor.

Can I prepare the components ahead of time for a party?

Yes! You can prepare and freeze the smashed patties and have all your toppings chopped and ready in advance. When guests arrive, just warm the components and assemble tacos on the spot for a crowd-pleasing, stress-free meal.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the combo of a crispy smashed burger patty resting on a warm tortilla, dressed up with your favorite burger accouterments. This Smash Burger Tacos Recipe is not only incredibly tasty but also simple and fun to whip up anytime you want to impress or just treat yourself. Give it a try—you might just discover your new go-to comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners, casual hangouts, or snacking in style!