Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, please see our affiliate disclosure.
The culinary world is constantly evolving, and every now and then, a dish comes along that takes the internet by storm. Enter the Smash Burger Taco – a brilliant fusion that combines the best of two beloved comfort foods! Imagine a juicy, crispy-edged smash burger patty, perfectly seasoned and cooked directly onto a warm tortilla, then loaded with melty cheese and all your favorite burger or taco toppings. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners, offering incredible flavor and a fun, customizable experience that’s surprisingly easy to achieve.
This viral sensation isn’t just a trend; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, our recipe will guide you through creating these irresistible smash burger tacos that are sure to become a regular in your rotation. Forget choosing between burgers and tacos – with this recipe, you get the best of both worlds!
Ingredients
For the Smash Burger Tacos:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
- 12 small flour tortillas (taco size)
- 6 slices American cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder
For the Special Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp pickle relish (sweet or dill)
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
Recommended Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Diced red onion
- Pickle slices
- Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- A drizzle of homemade chimichurri sauce for a zesty kick
Product Spotlight
Blackstone 22 Inch Griddle with Hood
$199.99Rolled carbon steel griddle plate finish. 362 sq. inches cooking surface.
Buy on AmazonStep-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Special Sauce and Toppings
In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the special sauce: mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, white vinegar, paprika, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Prepare all your desired toppings by chopping, shredding, and dicing them so they are ready for assembly once the tacos are cooked. This mise en place approach ensures a smooth cooking process, as recommended by Southern Parm.
Step 2: Portion the Ground Beef
Divide the ground beef into 12 equal portions, about 1.3 to 1.5 ounces (35-40g) each. Gently roll each portion into a loose ball – do not pack them tightly, as this will prevent them from smashing properly. Season generously with salt and pepper, and if desired, a sprinkle of garlic and onion powder. This preparation is key to achieving that perfect smash, as highlighted by Cookes Recipes.
Step 3: Smash and Cook the Patties with Tortillas
Heat a large electric griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and let it get shimmering hot. Place a beef ball onto the hot griddle. Immediately place a flour tortilla directly on top of the beef ball. Using a sturdy, flat spatula or a burger press, firmly press down on the tortilla-covered beef ball, smashing it thin. Hold for about 10-15 seconds to ensure good contact and a crispy crust forms. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the beef is cooked through and the edges are crispy. Gently scrape the spatula underneath the tortilla and flip the smash burger taco over.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Finish Cooking
Immediately place a half slice of American cheese (or your preferred cheese) on top of the cooked burger patty. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is slightly warmed and pliable. The goal is a slightly toasted tortilla and perfectly melted cheese, as often seen in popular recipes like those from Taste of Home. Remove the smash burger taco from the griddle and repeat with the remaining beef and tortillas, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once all the smash burger tacos are cooked, it’s time to assemble! Spread a generous spoonful of the special sauce onto the burger side of each taco. Pile high with your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Fold the taco in half and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle! For inspiration on creative toppings, check out Chelsea’s Messy Apron.
Smash Burger Tacos: The Viral Recipe You Need to Try Now!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
- 12 small flour tortillas (taco size)
- 6 slices American cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp pickle relish (sweet or dill)
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Diced red onion
- Pickle slices
- Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Salsa
- Sour cream
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the special sauce: mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, white vinegar, paprika, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Prepare all your desired toppings by chopping, shredding, and dicing them so they are ready for assembly once the tacos are cooked. This mise en place approach ensures a smooth cooking process, as recommended by Southern Parm.
- Divide the ground beef into 12 equal portions, about 1.3 to 1.5 ounces (35-40g) each. Gently roll each portion into a loose ball – do not pack them tightly, as this will prevent them from smashing properly. Season generously with salt and pepper, and if desired, a sprinkle of garlic and onion powder. This preparation is key to achieving that perfect smash, as highlighted by Cookes Recipes.
- Heat a large electric griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and let it get shimmering hot. Place a beef ball onto the hot griddle. Immediately place a flour tortilla directly on top of the beef ball. Using a sturdy, flat spatula or a burger press, firmly press down on the tortilla-covered beef ball, smashing it thin. Hold for about 10-15 seconds to ensure good contact and a crispy crust forms. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the beef is cooked through and the edges are crispy. Gently scrape the spatula underneath the tortilla and flip the smash burger taco over.
- Immediately place a half slice of American cheese (or your preferred cheese) on top of the cooked burger patty. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is slightly warmed and pliable. The goal is a slightly toasted tortilla and perfectly melted cheese, as often seen in popular recipes like those from Taste of Home. Remove the smash burger taco from the griddle and repeat with the remaining beef and tortillas, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Once all the smash burger tacos are cooked, it’s time to assemble! Spread a generous spoonful of the special sauce onto the burger side of each taco. Pile high with your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Fold the taco in half and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle! For inspiration on creative toppings, check out Chelsea’s Messy Apron.
FAQ Section
What kind of tortillas work best for smash burger tacos?
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
How can I make my smash burger tacos extra crispy?
Conclusion
The smash burger taco is more than just a passing food trend; it’s a brilliant culinary innovation that brings together the best of burgers and tacos in one incredibly satisfying bite. With its crispy, juicy patty, melty cheese, and customizable toppings, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a viral sensation. Our easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips ensure that you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen with confidence. So, fire up your griddle, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a new favorite that will delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Happy smashing!
Pin This Recipe For Later
Save this delicious homemade recipe & step-by-step cooking guide directly to your Pinterest board!
