– **Title**: Smash Burger Tacos
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
– 8 small flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced pickles
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for cooking
– **Instructions**:
1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan.
2. Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Form them into balls but do not compact them too tightly.
3. Once the skillet is hot, place the beef balls in the skillet and smash them down using a spatula to form thin patties. Season each patty with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes on one side until browned and crispy. Flip and place a small amount of cheddar cheese on each patty. Cook for another minute until the cheese is melted.
5. Meanwhile, warm the flour tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until soft.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing one smash burger patty on each tortilla. Top with diced onions, pickles, shredded lettuce, and additional cheddar cheese if desired.
7. Drizzle the ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard over the toppings.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your Smash Burger Tacos!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 beef is ideal for flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken, but remember they’ll be leaner and may need added seasoning or moisture.
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are perfect for these tacos. If you can’t find them, feel free to use flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just make sure they’re heatable!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack works well too if you want something creamier or spicier. Vegan cheese is also a great substitute for a dairy-free option!
Mayonnaise Sauce: The sauce adds creaminess and tang! You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, and if you prefer a vegan sauce, use a vegan mayo instead.
How Do I Smash the Patties for Optimal Flavor?
Smashing the patties is crucial for that great burger taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough to sear the meat. This will give your burger a lovely crust.
- After placing the beef in the skillet, use a heavy spatula or a burger press to apply firm pressure, flattening it down. This enhances the Maillard reaction, delivering rich flavors.
- Season the top with salt and pepper before cooking. Flip it once the edges are brown for a perfect crust!
Take your time with this step; a well-cooked patty is key to delicious Smash Burger Tacos!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smash Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp pickle relish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes. It’s quick to make and perfect for a fun dinner or a casual gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish if you’re using it. Give it a good stir and set it aside while you cook the burgers.
2. Cook the Beef:
Grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a little cooking oil to the skillet. Then, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. This will help you make four tasty burger patties!
3. Smash the Patties:
Once the skillet is nice and hot, take one portion of the ground beef and place it into the skillet. Using a spatula, press down firmly to flatten the patty. Season it with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until it gets a beautiful brown crust, then flip it over.
4. Add Cheese:
Right after flipping the patty, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top. This will melt beautifully into the burger while it finishes cooking!
5. Cook the Tortillas:
In a separate skillet, lightly fry the corn tortillas until they’re warm and soft. This will take about 20-30 seconds on each side. You want them pliable so they can hold all those delicious fillings!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place a cheeseburger patty inside each warm tortilla. Top with a handful of shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of chopped onions, and a generous drizzle of the tasty sauce you made earlier.
7. Serve:
Your Smash Burger Tacos are ready to enjoy! Serve them warm with any extra toppings or sauces you love. Dig in and enjoy this delicious twist on a classic!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey or chicken might require a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor. Add a touch of olive oil if you find them too dry!
How Do I Prevent My Tortillas from Getting Soggy?
To keep your tortillas crisp, make sure to fry them just until they are warm and pliable, rather than softening them too much. You can also warm them in the oven or on a grill for a few seconds before assembling if you prefer a firmer texture.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The sauce can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before using to refresh the flavors!
What Other Toppings Can I Use for My Smash Burger Tacos?
Feel free to customize your tacos! Popular additions include diced tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado, or even a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. Just go with what you love!
