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Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

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4.2 from 48 reviews

These Smash Burger Tacos combine the juicy, crispy goodness of classic smashed burgers with the convenience and fun of tacos. Featuring a flavorful homemade burger sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings wrapped in a crispy tortilla, they make a perfect quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 Tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 Tablespoons sweet relish
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

Burger Tacos

  • 1 ⅓ pounds lean ground beef (90/10 recommended)
  • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tablespoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
  • 8 fajita size flour tortillas
  • 8 slices cheddar cheese
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Sliced cherry tomatoes
  • Dill pickle slices
  • Sliced red onion
  • Other burger toppings (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the burger sauce: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet relish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside for flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare the beef mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients together, careful not to overmix to maintain juiciness. Divide into 6 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
  3. Heat the skillet: Place a skillet over slightly above medium heat and allow it to thoroughly preheat. Spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure crispiness.
  4. Smash and cook patties: Place a beef ball in the center of the skillet. Immediately place a fajita-sized flour tortilla over the meat ball and use a sturdy spatula or burger press to smash it into a thin patty that covers most of the tortilla. Cook undisturbed for 2 ½ to 3 minutes until the bottom is crispy.
  5. Flip and melt cheese: Use a spatula to carefully flip the patty with the tortilla. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top and cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese and crisp the tortilla for 1 to 2 minutes more. Remove the taco from the pan and repeat with remaining meatballs and tortillas, spraying the pan between batches as needed.
  6. Assemble the tacos: Top each crispy tortilla burger with the prepared burger sauce along with shredded lettuce, sliced cherry tomatoes, dill pickle slices, sliced red onion, and any other desired burger toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use 90/10 lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and fat.
  • Be sure the skillet is hot before placing the meat to get a crispy crust.
  • Smashing the burger thin allows for quick cooking and maximum crispiness.
  • Cook patties undisturbed to develop a good sear.
  • Spray the pan between batches to prevent sticking and maintain crisp texture.
  • Feel free to customize toppings based on personal preferences.