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Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

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4.1 from 85 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

These Smash Burger Tacos combine the juicy, crispy texture of traditional smash burgers with the convenience and flavor of soft flour tortillas. Each taco features a thinly pressed, seared beef patty layered with melted sharp Cheddar cheese, topped with a tangy, creamy sauce made from mayo, ketchup, and sweet pickle relish. Perfectly seared on a hot griddle or skillet, these tacos are quick to prepare and ideal for a delicious, casual meal that serves six.

Ingredients

Beef and Tacos

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20), divided into six 2-1/2 oz. balls
  • 6 flour tortillas (“Fajita” size)
  • 6 slices sharp Cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (only if using a stainless steel pan)

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayo
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Toppings

  • Toppings as desired (lettuce, tomato, onions, jalapeños, or other favorites)

Instructions

  1. Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, paprika, and salt until smooth. Chill the sauce in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the recipe.
  2. Prep Pan: Heat an electric griddle to 400°F and allow it to become very hot. If using a cast-iron skillet, heat it over high heat until very hot. For stainless steel pans, add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
  3. Prep Beef: Divide the cold ground beef into six balls, each weighing approximately 2-1/2 ounces. Gently form the balls without compacting the meat too much.
  4. Cook Beef: Place one beef ball onto the center of one side of a tortilla, pressing it as thin and even as possible. Season the exposed beef with salt and pepper. Place the tortilla, beef side down, onto the hot griddle or skillet. Immediately press firmly with a burger press or small pan for about 5 seconds to help set the crust. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges of the beef are deeply browned.
  5. Flip and Cook: Use a stiff metal spatula to carefully lift the beef from the pan; it should release easily if fully cooked on the first side. Flip the taco so the tortilla side is now on the heat. Quickly place a slice of cheese on the cooked beef and cover the pan with a lid or inverted metal bowl. Let cook for about 1 minute until the cheese melts and the tortilla turns golden and crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  6. Add Toppings: Fold the taco gently in half and transfer it to a serving plate. Top with your favorite toppings and a generous spoonful of the prepared sauce. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
  7. Keep Warm (Optional): If preparing tacos in batches, place the finished tacos on a wire rack inside a 200°F oven to keep warm until all are ready to serve.

Notes

  • You can customize your tacos with toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, jalapeños, or pickled vegetables according to your preference.
  • Using an electric griddle or cast iron skillet is recommended for even heat distribution and better crust formation on the beef.
  • Ensure your pan is very hot before cooking to achieve a perfect sear on the smash burger patties.
  • Press the beef balls quickly and firmly during cooking but avoid pressing after the initial smash to retain juiciness.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour tortillas with corn or gluten-free tortillas.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://mysimpledish.com/smash-burger-tacos-recipe/