Ingredients
Meat
- Ground beef, ¼ cup per taco (approximately 1 lb for 4 tacos)
- Salt, to taste
Other
- Small tortillas, 8-10 count
- Cooking spray, as needed
- Cheese slices, optional, 4 slices
- Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, pickles, sauce, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Divide ground beef into ¼ cup portions for each taco. Season each portion lightly with salt. Using your hands or a spatula, form each portion into a loose ball for smashing.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 3-5 minutes to ensure it is hot enough for a good sear on the beef.
- Smash and cook the beef: Spray the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the beef balls in the basket, then smash them down firmly with a spatula to form thin patties. Air fry for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the burgers are well browned and cooked through.
- Add cheese (optional): If using cheese slices, place one slice on each cooked patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt nicely.
- Warm the tortillas: While the burgers finish cooking, warm your small tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave for 20 seconds until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the tacos: Place one smashed burger patty on each tortilla. Top with your favorite burger toppings such as shredded lettuce, pickles, and your preferred sauces.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and good browning.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if desired, but cooking times may vary.
- To keep patties from drying, avoid smashing them too thin; aim for about ¼ inch thickness.
- Customize toppings to your liking—try adding sliced onions, tomato, or avocado for extra flavor.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be cooked on a hot griddle or skillet using the same smashing technique.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American