Why Make This Easy Smash Burger Tacos
If you’re searching for a fun and tasty twist on classic comfort food, look no further! Easy Smash Burger Tacos combine the juicy, savory goodness of a smash burger with the delightful convenience of a taco. This recipe offers all the flavors you love about traditional burgers, but wrapped in a soft tortilla for an exciting new experience. Perfect for a casual family dinner, game day, or a weekend cookout, these tacos are quick to whip up and guaranteed to satisfy hungry bellies!
How to Make Easy Smash Burger Tacos
Making these Easy Smash Burger Tacos is a straightforward process that comes together in just a few steps. You’ll start by whipping up a flavorful burger sauce that adds a zesty kick. Next, season your ground beef and prepare the patties. By smashing the balls of beef onto the hot grill with a tortilla, you’ll achieve that irresistible crispy texture that everyone loves. Add cheese, fresh toppings, and you’re ready to treat your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 fat percentage)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 cracks fresh black pepper
- 6 (six-inch) flour tortillas
- 6 slices muenster or provolone cheese
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped white onion (for topping)
- Dill pickle chips (for topping)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 tablespoons minced bread & butter pickles
- 1 tablespoon pickle brine
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions:
Prepare the Burger Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together all the burger sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard, minced bread & butter pickles, pickle brine, and Worcestershire sauce. Once mixed, cover and refrigerate for the flavors to meld.
Season the Beef: In another bowl, combine the kosher salt and black pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the ground beef, and gently mix until evenly seasoned. Form the beef into balls about the size of a golf ball, then place them in the refrigerator while you heat the grill.
Heat the Grill: Preheat your flat top grill or an outdoor grill. You want it nice and hot to create a perfect sear on the beef.
Cook the Smash Burgers: Once the grill is ready, place the beef balls on it. Lay a tortilla over each ball and press down firmly with a spatula to smash the beef. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned.
Flip and Melt: Carefully flip each burger along with the tortilla and cook for another 2 minutes. Place a slice of cheese on top during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt gloriously.
Serve: Remove from the grill and top each taco with shredded lettuce, chopped onions, and dill pickle chips. Drizzle with the burger sauce, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 taco):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 15g
How to Serve Easy Smash Burger Tacos
These tacos shine as a fun main dish! Pair them with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. For gatherings, set up a taco bar where guests can customize their toppings. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
How to Store Easy Smash Burger Tacos
If you happen to have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store the cooked tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The tortillas can be stored separately in a sealed bag for freshness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Smash Burger Tacos
- Choose the Right Beef: An 80/20 ratio of fat to meat ensures juiciness and flavor. Don’t go lower than 85/15, or your patties may be too dry.
- Get the Grill Hot Enough: This helps achieve that crispy effect and prevents sticking.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Handle the beef gently when forming balls to keep it tender.
- Toppings Galore: Feel free to switch up the toppings. Avocado, jalapeños, or even salsa can be fun additions!
Delicious Variations
- Chicken Smash Tacos: Substitute ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. Adjust cooking times as needed.
- Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based burger or grilled veggies for a veggie-friendly twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix some diced jalapeños into your burger sauce for extra heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option! They may need a little extra care when smashing, as they can be more delicate.
2. How can I make these tacos in advance?
You can prep the burger sauce and burger balls ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and grill them just before serving for fresh, hot tacos.
3. What should I do if I don’t have a flat top grill?
No worries! A cast iron skillet or even a non-stick frying pan will work just fine. Just ensure it’s adequately heated before you start cooking.
Conclusion
Easy Smash Burger Tacos bring a fun and flavorful twist to your dinner table. With their crispy texture, savory flavors, and customizable toppings, they are sure to become a new favorite in your household. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy a delightful meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Let us know how your tacos turned out in the comments below!