There’s something irresistibly tempting about the marriage of burgers and tacos, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this playful recipe for Smash Burger Tacos! Picture this: crispy flour tortillas cradling juicy ground beef patties, melting cheese, and a medley of fresh toppings—all drizzled with a zesty homemade Big Mac sauce that adds the perfect punch of flavor. After a long day in the fast-paced world, I discovered this quick and mouthwatering meal that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for those busy family dinners when you want something special without the fuss.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just seeking a satisfying weeknight treat, these Smash Burger Tacos are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, grab your skillet and let’s whip up a dinner that brings the excitement back to home cooking!
Why You’ll Love Smash Burger Tacos
Quick to Make: You’ll whip up Smash Burger Tacos in just 20 minutes, making them a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: This recipe is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters with its familiar flavors and fun presentation.
Flavor Fusion: The combination of classic burger ingredients wrapped in a taco shell creates a unique and delightful taste adventure.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out toppings or proteins for a dish tailored to your family’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner with friends, these tacos will be a hit every time.
Ready to spice up your weeknight meals? Check out our ideas for a delicious side dish to serve alongside your tacos!
Smash Burger Tacos Ingredients
For the Tacos
• Flour Tortillas – The crispy base for your tacos that holds everything together; try gluten-free tortillas for an alternative.
• Ground Beef – The flavor-packed main ingredient; substitute with lean ground turkey or chicken for a healthier twist.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the taste of the beef.
For Cooking
• Neutral Oil – Prevents sticking while cooking; olive or coconut oil can be used as alternatives.
• American Cheese – Melts beautifully for that classic burger goodness; feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese.
For the Toppings
• Diced Onion – Adds a crunchy texture and sharp flavor; consider green onions or shallots for a different taste.
• Dill Pickle Chips – Bring a tangy crunch; jalapeños can be used for a spicy twist.
• Shredded Iceberg Lettuce – Provides a fresh and crisp element; romaine or spinach can substitute.
For the Big Mac Sauce
• Mayonnaise – The creamy base for your sauce; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
• Pickle Relish – Offers sweetness and tang; chopped pickles can be a substitute if necessary.
• Dijon Mustard – Introduces a slight tanginess; yellow mustard works just as well.
• Sugar – Balances out the flavors in the sauce; feel free to adjust or skip based on preference.
• White Vinegar – Adds necessary acidity; lemon juice can serve as an alternative.
• Paprika, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder – Essential spices to enhance the flavor profile of your Big Mac sauce.
Get ready to put together your Smash Burger Tacos with these easy-to-follow ingredients!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
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Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, relish, mustard, sugar, vinegar, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth, then set aside to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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Divide the Beef: Take your ground beef and evenly divide it into four portions. Use your hands to form each portion into a pancake-like shape, ready to be placed on a tortilla.
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Season Generously: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over each portion of beef. This simple step is crucial for bringing out the delicious flavors of your tacos.
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Cook the Tacos: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a dash of neutral oil. Place one tortilla beef-side down in the skillet and press down with a spatula to form a patty. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
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Add the Cheese: Flip the taco and immediately place cheese on top. Cook for an additional 1-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly while the tortilla crisps up to golden brown.
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Repeat the Process: Continue cooking the remaining smash burger tacos, placing each one on a plate after cooking.
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Assemble with Toppings: Spread the zesty sauce over each taco and add your fresh toppings: shredded lettuce, diced onions, and dill pickle chips.
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Serve Immediately: Enjoy your tacos while they’re hot to experience the delightful crunch and warmth of the flavors.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Smash Burger Tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious recipe on busy weeknights! You can prepare the Big Mac sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; this will enable the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, divide and season the ground beef portions ahead of time, keeping them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the tacos as instructed, adding cheese just before flipping for that perfect melt. This approach ensures that dinner is quick and hassle-free, delivering warm, crispy tacos just as delicious as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Smash Burger Tacos?
Nothing pairs better with a fun and flavorful dish than a selection of delicious sides and drinks. Elevate your dinner table and create a full feast that complements the excitement of your Smash Burger Tacos.
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Mexican Street Corn: The sweet and smoky flavors of this grilled corn dish bring a delightful freshness that balances the heartiness of the tacos.
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Chips and Salsa: A classic combo, crunchy tortilla chips with zesty salsa offer a perfect appetizer or side, enhancing the taco experience with lively flavors.
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Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad, filled with black beans, corn, and peppers, adds a nutritious and colorful element to your meal, bringing plenty of texture and crunch.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole pairs beautifully with Smash Burger Tacos, providing a cool contrast to the savory meat and spicy toppings.
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Pickled Jalapeños: For those who crave heat, a side of pickled jalapeños adds a spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile of your meal.
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Watermelon Mint Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad with juicy watermelon and cool mint helps cleanse the palate and offers a sweet finish to your flavorful dinner.
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Lemonade or Limeade: A refreshing beverage can elevate your meal experience, and chilled lemonade or limeade adds a zingy sweetness that complements the savory tacos beautifully.
Variations & Substitutions of Smash Burger Tacos
Feel free to get creative and personalize these tacos to your heart’s content!
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Turkey or Chicken Substitution: Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, healthier option. You’ll still enjoy a juicy filling without the guilt!
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Avocado Upgrade: Add sliced or mashed avocado for a creamy texture and a delicious twist. The richness of the avocado complements the savory beef perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers to your toppings for an extra blast of heat. Spice lovers will appreciate the added fire!
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings a unique flavor profile that can transform your tacos.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh cilantro or parsley can elevate your tacos. Sprinkle on top just before serving for a vibrant burst of flavor and freshness.
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Vegan Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms, and use vegan cheese and mayo to create a delightful plant-based version. It’s a hearty option that even non-vegans will enjoy!
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Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce or a smear of sweet chili sauce for a delightful sweet and savory contrast that surprises the palate.
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Crispy Potato Add-In: For a hearty texture, mix in some crispy potato bits into your filling. This unexpected twist adds a delightful crunch and heartiness to each bite.
Expert Tips for Smash Burger Tacos
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Hot Skillet Essential: Ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the tortillas to achieve that desired crispy texture.
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Cook One at a Time: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cooking one taco at a time ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
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Customize the Spices: Adjust the spices in the Big Mac sauce according to your family’s taste preferences for a truly personalized Smash Burger Tacos experience.
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Experiment with Cheese: Don’t be afraid to try different types of cheese. Pepper jack adds a spicy twist, while cheddar brings a classic flavor.
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Topping Variety: Mix and match toppings such as avocado, salsa, or hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile and keep meals exciting.
How to Store and Freeze Smash Burger Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover Smash Burger Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the taco’s crispy texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each individual taco tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet to retain the crispness of the tortilla and melt the cheese beautifully.
Wrapping Tips: Always allow the tacos to cool completely before wrapping to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy during storage.
Smash Burger Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of tortillas should I use for Smash Burger Tacos?
You should use flour tortillas for that perfect crispy base, but if you prefer a gluten-free option, corn or gluten-free tortillas work beautifully too! Just make sure they’re pliable enough to hold the delicious fillings.
How long can I store leftover Smash Burger Tacos?
Leftover Smash Burger Tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them warm and crispy, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat instead of microwaving!
Can I freeze Smash Burger Tacos? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each taco in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to savor them, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on a skillet for that crispy effect.
What should I do if my taco shells become soggy?
If your taco shells are soggy, it likely means they weren’t cooked at a high enough heat or were wrapped too soon after cooking. Next time, ensure the skillet is hot and let the tacos cool slightly before wrapping or stacking them!
Are Smash Burger Tacos safe for kids and pets?
Yes, Smash Burger Tacos are generally safe for kids. Just be mindful of the toppings! As for pets, avoid giving them any parts with onions or pickles, as these can be harmful to dogs. Always keep their diet in mind when sharing human food!
Can I customize the sauce for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re looking to lighten up the Big Mac sauce, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. For those with specific allergies, check your relish and mustard brands for any allergens and make adjustments as necessary—simple swaps can create a delightful, tailored sauce!
Irresistible Smash Burger Tacos for Quick Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, relish, mustard, sugar, vinegar, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth, then set aside.
- Take your ground beef and evenly divide it into four portions. Form each portion into a pancake-like shape, ready to be placed on a tortilla.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over each portion of beef.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a dash of neutral oil. Place one tortilla beef-side down, press down with a spatula, and cook for 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Flip the taco and immediately place cheese on top. Cook for 1-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the tortilla to crisp up.
- Continue cooking the remaining smash burger tacos, placing each one on a plate after cooking.
- Spread the zesty sauce over each taco and add fresh toppings: shredded lettuce, diced onions, and dill pickle chips.
- Enjoy your tacos while they're hot to experience the delightful crunch and warmth of the flavors.