Smash Burger Tacos

Smash Burger Tacos: Have you ever imagined the juicy, crispy perfection of a smash burger, cleverly reimagined within the warm embrace of a soft taco shell? If not, prepare to have your culinary world delightfully disrupted! This recipe isn’t just about combining two beloved foods; it’s about creating a harmonious explosion of flavor and texture that will leave you craving more.

While the precise origins of the smash burger remain somewhat debated, its popularity exploded recently, showcasing the beauty of simple, perfectly executed cooking. The concept of smashing the burger patty to create a thin, crispy exterior with a juicy interior is genius in its simplicity. And now, we’re taking that genius and giving it a fun, festive twist with the addition of taco shells and all the delicious fixings you love. This isn’t your grandma’s taco night (unless your grandma is incredibly adventurous!).

What makes Smash Burger Tacos so irresistible? It’s the delightful contrast, of course! The crisp, slightly charred patty provides a satisfying crunch that beautifully complements the soft, yielding corn or flour tortilla. The juicy interior of the burger patty bursts with flavor, mingling perfectly with your favorite taco toppings. Whether you prefer a classic approach with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a generous helping of cheese, or you’re feeling adventurous with some spicy jalapeños and a vibrant salsa, the possibilities are endless. And let’s not forget the convenience! This recipe is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.

So, are you ready to embark on this culinary adventure with me? Let’s dive into the recipe and create some truly unforgettable Smash Burger Tacos!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 12 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Your favorite burger sauce (I like a creamy chipotle mayo – recipe below!)

For the Creamy Chipotle Mayo:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Pinch of salt

Preparing the Smash Burger Patties:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to overwork the meat. Overworking the meat will result in tough patties.
2. Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions. I find using a kitchen scale helps ensure even patties.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
4. Once the oil is hot, gently place one meat portion into the skillet. Immediately flatten it with a spatula into a thin, wide patty, about 1/4 inch thick. This is the key to a smash burger! The thin patty cooks quickly and gets wonderfully crispy.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the patties are cooked through and nicely browned. You’ll hear a satisfying sizzle as they cook.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 with the remaining meat portions, adding more olive oil to the skillet as needed.
7. Once all the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.

Making the Chipotle Mayo:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add more adobo sauce for extra heat.
2. Set aside.

Assembling the Smash Burger Tacos:

1. Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can heat them in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven.
2. Place a cooked smash burger patty in each tortilla.
3. Top each taco with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese melts beautifully on the warm patty.
4. Add a spoonful of the creamy chipotle mayo.
5. Layer on the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chopped red onion.
6. Finish with a few slices of avocado.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Smash Burger Tacos!

Tips and Variations:

• For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper to the burger mixture or use a spicier cheese like pepper jack.
• Feel free to experiment with different toppings! Caramelized onions, bacon, pickled jalapeños, or different types of cheese would all be delicious additions.
• If you don’t have corn or flour tortillas, you can use other types of bread or even lettuce wraps.
• Make the chipotle mayo ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• For a truly gourmet experience, try using high-quality ground beef and fresh, flavorful ingredients.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my recipe for the ultimate Smash Burger Tacos! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to your liking, adding more or less chili powder, or even experimenting with different types of hot sauce. The same goes for the toppings; feel free to get creative and add your favorite burger fixings. Beyond the customization, the flavor combination is simply divine. The juicy, perfectly smashed patty, the crisp lettuce, the tangy pico de gallo, all nestled within a warm, soft tortilla – it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.

Secondly, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Despite the impressive results, the process is straightforward and doesn’t require any specialized culinary skills. Even a beginner cook can confidently tackle this recipe and impress their friends and family. The quick cooking time is also a major plus, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. You can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes, which is a huge win in my book!

Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, these Smash Burger Tacos offer a unique and exciting twist on classic comfort food. It’s a fun, fresh take on the beloved burger and taco, combining the best elements of both into one incredible dish. It’s the perfect way to elevate your taco night or add some excitement to your burger routine. I guarantee it will become a new family favorite in no time!

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

While I’ve provided a delicious base recipe, the possibilities for customization are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the patty mixture for an extra fiery flavor.
• Cheese Please!: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a crumbled queso fresco would be delicious additions.
• Gourmet Toppings: Elevate your tacos with gourmet toppings like caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo.
• Different Proteins: While beef is classic, you can easily substitute the patty with ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles for a delicious variation.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a spoonful of mango salsa or pineapple salsa for a sweet and savory twist.
• Guacamole Goodness: A dollop of homemade guacamole adds a creamy, rich element that perfectly complements the savory patty.

Serve these Smash Burger Tacos with your favorite sides, such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad. They’re also fantastic for parties and gatherings – just prepare the patties ahead of time and assemble the tacos as needed.

Give it a Try and Share Your Experience!

I sincerely hope you give my Smash Burger Tacos recipe a try. I’m confident you’ll love the delicious results. Once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and feedback on social media using #SmashBurgerTacos – I can’t wait to see your creations and hear what you think. Happy cooking!

Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the delicious results. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some seriously amazing Smash Burger Tacos!