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Easy Smash Burger Tacos (Viral Air Fryer Recipe) Recipe

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3.9 from 70 reviews

These Easy Smash Burger Tacos combine the juicy, flavorful goodness of classic smashed burgers with the convenience and crispy texture of air frying, all wrapped in small tortillas. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal, these tacos feature seasoned ground beef cooked in the air fryer, topped with cheese and your favorite burger fixings for a fun and satisfying twist on traditional tacos.

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 tacos

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American