Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

Get ready for the ultimate mashup: Smash Burger Tacos! These mouthwatering hand-held wonders combine the juicy, crispy goodness of a classic smash burger with the irresistible fun of tacos. In less than 30 minutes, you can be savoring melty cheese, tangy special sauce, crunchy pickles, and all the burger fixings—tucked neatly into warm, golden tortillas. It’s a recipe that’s just as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for a backyard get-together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Smash Burger Tacos is in their simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen for max flavor and the signature burger experience. A few fresh toppings and a dreamy burger sauce elevate every single bite!

• Ground beef (80/20): A blend with just enough fat to stay juicy and achieve those irresistible crispy edges.
• Flour tortillas (fajita size): Soft, sturdy, and just big enough to hold in all those burger fillings, these act as your “taco shell.”
• Seasoning salt or taco seasoning: Adds that essential savory kick and amplifies the meaty burger taste—use your favorite blend!
• American cheese slices: Classic for melt-factor and creamy richness—wraps each bite in retro nostalgia.
• Iceberg lettuce: Crisp, refreshing, and the perfect textural contrast to the rich meat and gooey cheese.
• Yellow onion (diced): For that subtle, sweet sharpness every great burger needs.
• Dill pickles (diced): Bright, briny pops of flavor with every bite—don’t skip!
• Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle over the top for a nutty crunch and “burger bun” vibes.
• 321 Sauce (mayo, ketchup, yellow mustard): This quick homemade sauce ties everything together, giving you that addictive, slightly tangy, creamy layer you crave.

Variations

One of the best parts about Smash Burger Tacos is how easy they are to riff on. Whether you’re swapping proteins, dialing up the heat, or making them meatless, there’s plenty of room to make this recipe totally yours.

• Turkey or Chicken Smash Tacos: Substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter yet still juicy twist.
• Spicy Smash Burger Tacos: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to your seasoning for a little fiery kick.
• Vegetarian Smash Burger Tacos: Swap in your favorite plant-based ground or a hearty black bean patty as the base.
• Lettuce Wrap Option: Looking to go low-carb? Skip the tortilla and wrap your burger in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh take.

How to Make Smash Burger Tacos

Step 1: Shape the Burger Patties

Divide your ground beef into four equal portions. Press each portion directly onto the top of a tortilla, spreading the meat all the way to the edges. This technique is key for achieving those signature crispy, caramelized edges and makes sure every bite is loaded with beefy goodness. Sprinkle each with your favorite seasoning salt or taco seasoning for that savory boost.

Step 2: Prep the Toppings & Sauce

While the beef-tortilla combos rest, shred half the iceberg lettuce and dice both the onion and dill pickles. Arrange each topping in its own small bowl, taco bar–style, so everyone can assemble their tacos just how they like. Whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard in a bowl for your legendary 321 sauce and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Smash Burger Tacos

Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Working one or two at a time (depending on pan size), place each tortilla meat-side down. Let it cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes to ensure the beef gets crispy and cooked through. If you like your burgers more well-done, add another minute or two.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Finish Melting

Flip each taco so the tortilla is on the skillet. Immediately top the hot beef with a slice of American cheese, cover with a lid, and turn off the heat. Let the tacos sit for 1 minute—the residual heat will perfectly melt the cheese for that classic, oozy effect.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Remove the smash burger tacos from the pan. Top generously with lettuce, onion, pickles, a big spoonful of that creamy 321 sauce, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Fold in half. Dive in while they’re warm and gooey for the full experience!

How to Serve Smash Burger Tacos

Garnishes

Garnishing your Smash Burger Tacos with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds truly transforms them—think classic burger bun, but in taco form! Feel free to add an extra drizzle of 321 sauce, a few extra pickle slices, or even some sliced green onions for a pop of color and crunch.

Side Dishes

Serve your tacos with a basket of crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for the full burger joint experience. Classic potato chips, coleslaw, or a fresh, juicy tomato-cucumber salad are also spot-on for a lighter side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try setting up a DIY Smash Burger Taco bar and let friends or family build their own—perfect for parties or game nights! Or, cut the tacos in half and stack them on a platter for a playful, crowd-pleasing appetizer spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover assembled tacos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the toppings and sauce separate and assemble just before serving.

Freezing

While the fresh veggies and sauce don’t freeze well, you can cook just the beef-tortilla “patties” and freeze them (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and add fresh toppings before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm leftover Smash Burger Tacos in a dry skillet over medium heat until heated through and the tortilla is crisp again—this keeps everything from getting soggy and freshens things up in a flash!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving all things juicy, cheesy, and snackable, Smash Burger Tacos are about to become your new obsession. Try them for your next weeknight dinner or gathering—you’ll quickly see why this recipe is a total game-changer. Happy smashing, and enjoy every bite!

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