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Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

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4.1 from 2 reviews

These Smash Burger Tacos combine the crispy, caramelized edges of classic smash burgers with the convenience of street-style tacos. Featuring a tangy homemade sauce, juicy seasoned beef, melty American cheese, and fresh toppings, this recipe delivers a flavorful, fun, and quick meal perfect for taco lovers and burger fans alike.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons chopped dill pickle
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Tacos

  • 8 mini flour tortillas (street taco size)
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 8 slices American cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup sliced sweet pickles
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped tomatoes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, chopped dill pickle, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well then cover and refrigerate until ready to use. For best flavor, prepare the sauce at least a few hours ahead or even the day before.
  2. Prepare the beef patties: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then divide into eight loosely shaped balls. Avoid forming tight meatballs to allow for easier smashing and crispier edges.
  3. Cook the tacos: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, place one portion of ground beef in the skillet, then immediately top with a mini tortilla. Using a burger press or flat spatula, press the beef down to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cook until browned and crisp on the bottom, about 1 to 2 minutes. Flip the tortilla and beef together, top the beef with a slice of American cheese, then cover and cook until the tortilla is golden and the cheese melts, about 1 more minute. Repeat for all portions.
  4. Add the sauce and toppings: Serve the tacos immediately, spooning the prepared sauce over each one. Top with shredded lettuce, sweet pickles, chopped onion, and optional diced tomatoes for fresh flavor and crunch.

Notes

  • The sauce improves in flavor the longer it sits; making it ahead of time is recommended.
  • Loosely shaping the beef balls allows for better smash burger texture and crisp edges.
  • Use a heavy spatula or burger press for effective smashing of the patties.
  • Cook the tacos in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and ensure even browning.
  • For a lower carb option, substitute mini flour tortillas with low-carb or corn tortillas.