Smash Burger Tacos- Delicious Recipe Your Family Will Love
Smash burger tacos – welcome to a delicious collision of flavors!
Today, we’re diving into the world of smash burger tacos—a mouthwatering fusion that combines the juiciness of smash burgers with the zest of tacos.
I recently tried this viral recipe with my husband and 4 kids adding my own tweaks an
My family loved the dish and asked that we put it in our weekly dinner rotation.
You know it’s good when they request that!
Honestly, the sauce might have been my family’s favorite party.
So let’s jump right in to how to make it!
What are Smash Burger Tacos?
Smash burger tacos are a creative hybrid that combines a burger’s iconic flavors with the tastiness of tacos.
Typically, these tacos feature smashed and seared beef patties, seasoned and cooked to perfection, then nestled into crispy tortillas.
They’re topped with a variety of traditional taco ingredients such as cheese, tomatoes, onions, shredded lettuce and pickles. It’s drizzled in a yummy sauce
The result is a blend of savory burger goodness and the familiar Tex-Mex appeal, offering a unique twist on both popular dishes.
Ingredients
Taco Burger Ingredients
- Ground meat ( I used a combo of ground beef and ground turkey)
- Tortillas (you can use corn tortillas or flour but I prefer flour)
- cheese
- iceberg lettuce or spinach
- tomatoes (optional)
- onion (optional)
- olive oil
Special Sauce Ingredients
- Mayonaise (1/4 cup)
- Salt and Pepper (1/2 teaspoon each)
- Mustard (1 teaspoon – I used yellow mustard but you could also use spicy brown)
- Worchester Sauce (1 tablespoon)
- Pickle juice (2 tablespoons)
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Siriacha (a couple of drops to taste – optional if you like a little extra kick).
Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl and put in the refrigerator until your burger tortillas are ready.
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your cooking surface: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Make sure the surface is hot to achieve a good sear on the burgers.
- Lightly coat cooking surface: lightly coat your cooking surface with olive oil to prevent sticking. I spread my oil with a paper towel.
- Prepare the beef patties: Divide the ground beef into portions. Roll into balls about 3 inches in diameter each. Season each portion generously with salt and pepper. I put salt and pepper in a tray and rolled the meatballs in the seasoning.
- Form the patties: Place a ball onto the hot skillet or preferably a flat-top griddle and immediately press it down firmly with a spatula to smash it flat. The goal is to create thin, crispy edges while keeping the center juicy. You could also use a burger press if you have one.
- Cook the patties: Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes without moving them. The cooking time will vary depending on your cook top but you want to allow a crust to form on the bottom.
- Flip and finish: After several minutes, use a spatula to carefully flip each patty. Cook for an additional 4 minutes or so, until the patties are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Add the tortilla – add the tortilla to the flattened burger as it finishes cooking. The tortilla and burger can continue to cook together. Flip the tortilla and burger to the tortilla is cooked on both sides.
- Assemble the tacos: Top with shredded cheese, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and pickles if using. Also, add a bit if your burger sauce to the finished taco.
- Serve: Arrange the smash burger tacos on a platter and serve immediately while warm.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian options (substituting beef with plant-based alternatives).
- Flavor variations (spicy, cheesy, etc.).
- Add Creative toppings and sauces.
Pairing Suggestions
French Fries or Potato Wedges:
Classic and always a hit, fries or wedges are perfect for dipping in ketchup or your favorite sauces. Air Fryer Red Potatoes are especially crunchy and delicious.
Onion Rings:
Crispy, golden onion rings add a flavorful crunch that pairs well with the juicy smash burgers.
Side Salad:
A salad with fresh mixed greens, and raw veggies with a light vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the heartiness of the burgers.
Coleslaw:
Creamy coleslaw adds a cool and crunchy texture that balances the savory taste of the burgers.
Grilled Vegetables:
Seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, grilled to perfection, make for a healthy and delicious side dish.
Sweet Potato Fries:
A healthier alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory burgers.
Macaroni and Cheese:
Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting and indulgent side dish that pairs well with the hearty flavors of smash burgers.
Corn on the Cob:
Grilled or boiled corn on the cob with butter and seasonings adds a summery touch to your meal.
Baked Beans:
Tangy and slightly sweet baked beans are a classic barbecue side that goes well with burgers.
Fruit Salad:
A colorful fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds a fresh and sweet component to your meal.
Chips and Salsa/Guacamole:
A side of tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole brings a Mexican flair to your meal and complements the flavors of the burgers.
Air Fryer Texas Toast
Serve the burgers with Texas Toast cooked in the air fryer for a savory crunch side.
Beverage Suggestions
- Mexican Lager or Pilsner: A light and crisp Mexican beer like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico complement the flavors of the tacos without overpowering them.
- Margarita: A classic margarita with lime, tequila, and a salted rim provides a refreshing and citrusy contrast to the savory tacos.
- Sangria: A fruity and refreshing sangria (red or white) pairs well with the flavors of Mexican cuisine and adds a festive touch to the meal.
- Michelada: A spicy and tangy Michelada (beer mixed with lime juice, hot sauce, and spices) enhances the flavors of the tacos and adds a kick of heat.
- Tequila or Mezcal: Enjoy neat or in cocktails like a Tequila Sunrise or Mezcal Paloma for a bold and Mexican-inspired drink pairing.
- Iced Tea: A cold glass of iced tea (sweetened or unsweetened) provides a refreshing non-alcoholic option that complements the flavors of the tacos.
- Agua Fresca: A traditional Mexican beverage made with fresh fruit (such as watermelon or mango), water, and a touch of sweetener, served over ice for a light and fruity refreshment.
- Craft Soda: Try a craft soda like ginger beer or Mexican cola for a unique and flavorful pairing with your tacos.
- Horchata: A creamy and sweet Mexican rice milk beverage flavored with cinnamon, perfect for balancing the spicy flavors of the tacos.
- Sparkling Water: A simple but effective choice to cleanse the palate and refresh between bites of flavorful tacos.
Healthier Suggestions
- Use plant-based alternatives.
- Choose whole-grain or low-carb tortillas.
- Incorporate more vegetables into toppings.
Why You’ll Love Smash Burger Tacos
- Innovative Fusion: Smash burger tacos offer a unique twist by combining the juicy, flavorful elements of smash burgers with the handheld convenience and vibrant flavors of tacos, appealing to those who enjoy culinary creativity.
- Savory and Juicy: The smashed and seared beef patties provide a juicy and savory filling that satisfies both burger and taco cravings in one delicious bite.
- Customization Options: Readers can customize their smash burger tacos with a variety of toppings, sauces, and tortilla choices, allowing for personalization to suit different tastes and preferences.
- Ease of Preparation: Despite their gourmet appearance, smash burger tacos are relatively simple to make at home, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels looking to experiment in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive party, smash burger tacos are a crowd-pleasing dish that adds a fun and flavorful element to any gathering.
Conclusion
Smash burger tacos offer a fun fusion of flavors for burger and taco lovers.
With their juicy, seared patties in crispy tortillas and topped with fresh ingredients, they’re not just a meal but a food adventure.
Let me know if you’ve tried any variations that you love and think I should include!
Hi I’m Erica! TV news anchor and mom to 4 littles. I’m obsessed with creating those “wow” moments in life through crafting at home, cool travel adventures and special celebrations with loved ones. Thanks for joining me on this adventure!
