If you’re looking to jazz up your regular taco night, say hello to Smash Burger Tacos! This irresistible fusion dish combines everything you love about a juicy smash burger with the convenience of a taco. With perfectly seasoned beef patties, golden caramelized onions, a tangy homemade burger sauce, and melty cheese all wrapped in crispy tortillas, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend get-together, these Smash Burger Tacos are just what you need to make the evening extra special.
Smash Burger Tacos
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Rate this RecipeEquipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 large onion Finely sliced
- 2 tablespoon butter Use unsalted butter
- 1-2 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 0.5 teaspoon worcestershire sauce Check for gluten-free if needed
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 pound ground beef (80-20) Use high-quality ground beef for best results
- 6-8 small tortillas Approximately 15 cm in diameter
- 6-8 slice cheese American cheese or cheddar for best meltability
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by finely slicing one large onion. If you’re tempted to use a grater, it’s best to skip it as it can be more trouble than it’s worth. Instead, simply use a sharp knife to get nice thin slices. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the butter is melted, add the onions. Season them with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of black pepper. Stir the onions and let them cook down until they turn a deep golden brown, which will take about 10-15 minutes. The slow caramelization brings out a rich sweetness that adds a fantastic depth of flavor to your tacos.
- While the onions are caramelizing, make your delicious burger sauce. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon pickle relish. Mix it well until everything is combined into a smooth sauce. This creamy, tangy burger sauce will be the secret ingredient that brings all the flavors together.
- Take 1 pound (450 grams) of 80-20 ground beef and divide it into roughly 6 equal portions. Place each portion on top of a small tortilla (approximately 15 cm in diameter), pressing it down so that the beef sticks to the tortilla. Remember, the beef will shrink a bit as it cooks, so make sure it’s spread to cover most of the tortilla. Sprinkle each patty with salt and pepper, and then spread about 1 teaspoon of mustard over each patty. This mustard layer will add an extra burst of flavor when it hits the skillet.
- Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place each tortilla with the beef side down into the skillet. Press down gently to ensure good contact with the skillet, allowing the beef to cook evenly. Let the patties cook for about 2-3 minutes until the beef starts browning and the edges crisp up slightly. Flip each taco so that the tortilla side is now in contact with the skillet. Allow it to get a bit crispy, which will take about 1 more minute. While the tortilla is cooking, add a slice of cheese on top of each patty.
- Once the cheese has melted, remove the tacos from the skillet. To assemble, spread a generous spoonful of the burger sauce over each patty, then add a portion of the caramelized onions. You can top with some freshly chopped lettuce or pickles if you like an extra crunch. Fold the tortillas over to make the classic taco shape, and your Smash Burger Tacos are ready to serve!
Notes
Make sure to press the beef firmly onto the tortilla so that it sticks well. Use a hot skillet to ensure the beef cooks quickly, which helps maintain juiciness. If you want even crispier tortillas, add a tiny bit of oil to the skillet before flipping.
Modifications for Dietary Restrictions
To modify this recipe for different tastes, you could add jalapeños for a spicy kick or swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option. You can also use gluten-free tortillas and Worcestershire sauce for those with gluten intolerance. For added crunch, consider adding shredded lettuce or pickles.
Common Food Intolerances and Their Substitutions
| Ingredient | Potential Intolerance | Substitution |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy (Butter, Cheese) | Lactose Intolerance | Use lactose-free butter or cheese, or plant-based alternatives |
| Worcestershire sauce | Gluten Intolerance | Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce |
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Smash Burger Tacos combine two beloved comfort foods into one incredible experience. The crispy tortillas, juicy beef patties, tangy burger sauce, and caramelized onions all come together to create a fusion dish that’s full of flavor and fun. Whether it’s a regular taco Tuesday or you just want to treat yourself to something different, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Plus, with the flexibility to add your favorite toppings or switch up the cheese, you can truly make it your own. Give these Smash Burger Tacos a try, and get ready for rave reviews from everyone at the table!
FAQ’s
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! While the traditional smash burger uses ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that these meats have less fat content, so adding a little bit of oil while cooking will help keep them moist.
What’s the best way to get the tortillas crispy?
The key to crispy tortillas is to cook them long enough on the skillet after you flip the taco, making sure the tortilla side makes direct contact with the hot skillet. Adding a small amount of oil to the skillet can help achieve an even crisper texture.
Can I make these tacos in advance?
These tacos are best served fresh, but you can prepare the individual components ahead of time. Caramelize the onions, prepare the burger sauce, and even shape the beef patties in advance. When it’s time to eat, simply cook the patties and assemble the tacos for the best flavor and texture.
What kind of cheese works best for these tacos?
Classic American cheese is great for that iconic burger flavor and meltability. Cheddar cheese is also a delicious choice if you want something with a bit more bite. You could even try pepper jack if you’re looking for some extra spice!