Ingredients for Smash Burger Tacos
Gather the following ingredients to make these tasty tacos:
- For the Smash Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
- Pickles (optional)
- For the Smash Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions for Smash Burger Tacos
1. Make the Smash Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
2. Preheat the Skillet:
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
3. Form the Patties:
- Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Roll each portion into a ball without overworking the meat.
4. Smash the Patties:
- Once the skillet is hot, place the meatballs on the skillet, leaving enough space between them. Use a spatula to smash each ball into a flat patty (about 1/4 inch thick). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook the Burgers:
- Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
- While the patties are cooking, warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until soft and pliable.
7. Assemble the Tacos:
- To assemble, place a smashed burger on each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and any additional toppings like pickles. Drizzle with the smash sauce.
8. Serve:
- Serve immediately while the patties are hot, and enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large cast-iron skillet or griddle
- Spatula for smashing and flipping burgers
- Mixing bowl for the smash sauce
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs or fork for handling hot ingredients
Tips for Making the Best Smash Burger Tacos
- Use High-Quality Beef: An 80/20 blend provides the best flavor and juiciness for your tacos.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When forming the meatballs, be gentle to keep the beef tender.
- Preheat the Skillet Well: A hot skillet is key to achieving that perfect crispy edge on your burgers.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add avocado, jalapeños, or your favorite salsa for a twist!
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover patties and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Warm the tortillas just before serving for the best texture.
Pairing Suggestions
Smash Burger Tacos pair wonderfully with:
- Chips and Salsa: The crunch and flavor of tortilla chips with fresh salsa complement the tacos perfectly.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a delicious contrast to the savory flavors of the tacos.
- Refreshing Beverages: Serve with iced tea, soda, or a light beer to balance the richness of the dish.