Smash Burger Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet or griddle.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite burger toppings.
• Family-Friendly: A fun and interactive meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Deliciously Satisfying: Combines the best elements of burgers and tacos in one bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Burger Sauce / Big Mac Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons pickle relish
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ tablespoon white vinegar
• 1¼ teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Tacos:

• 4 flour tortillas, 6 inches in size
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
• 4 slices American cheese (or your preferred burger cheese)
• 1 small onion, diced
• Dill pickle chips
• Shredded iceberg lettuce

Directions

1. Prepare the Burger Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, sugar, white vinegar, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well and set aside.
2. Divide the Beef: Portion the ground beef into four equal balls, approximately 4 ounces each. Season each with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the neutral oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
4. Cook the Beef Patties: Place a beef ball onto the skillet and immediately press a tortilla over it. Use a spatula or burger press to firmly smash the beef into a thin layer that adheres to the tortilla. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and crispy.
5. Flip and Add Cheese: Carefully flip the tortilla so the beef side is up. Place a slice of cheese on the beef and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden brown.
6. Assemble the Tacos: Remove the taco from the skillet. Top with diced onion, dill pickle chips, shredded iceberg lettuce, and a generous drizzle of the prepared burger sauce.
7. Serve: Fold the tortilla in half to form a taco and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Substitute American cheese with cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the burger sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives and vegan cheese to make it vegetarian-friendly.
• Different Sauces: Experiment with barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or sriracha mayo for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the beef-tortilla base in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add fresh toppings and sauce before serving.
• Note: Assembled tacos are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the tortilla.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, but flour tortillas are more pliable and tend to hold up better when pressed and cooked with the beef.

What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?

A lean ground beef, such as 85/15, works well to prevent excessive grease while still providing flavor.

Can I prepare the burger sauce in advance?

Absolutely. The burger sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Is a burger press necessary?

While a burger press helps achieve an even smash, a sturdy spatula or the bottom of a heavy pan can also be used effectively.

Can I add other toppings?

Certainly. Feel free to customize with tomatoes, avocado, or any of your favorite burger toppings.

How do I prevent the tortilla from burning?

Ensure your skillet is at medium-high heat and monitor closely. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

Can I make these tacos on a grill?

Yes, a flat-top grill or griddle works great for this recipe. Just ensure even heat distribution.

Are these tacos freezer-friendly?

It’s best to enjoy these tacos fresh. Freezing may affect the texture of the tortilla and toppings.

What side dishes pair well with these tacos?

Consider serving with fries, coleslaw, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Smash Burger Tacos offer a delightful twist on two beloved classics, bringing together the juicy, crispy elements of a smash burger with the convenience and versatility of a taco. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a new favorite in your meal rotation.

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