Smash Burger Tacos combine the best of both worlds—crispy, juicy burger patties and soft tortillas—for an irresistible fusion dish. This easy and flavorful recipe features seasoned ground beef smashed directly onto tortillas and cooked to perfection, then topped with classic burger fixings for a fun and delicious twist on taco night.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Best of both worlds – Combines juicy smash burgers with the convenience of tacos.
Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Crispy and flavorful – Smashed beef creates a crispy, caramelized crust.
Customizable toppings – Load them up with your favorite burger toppings.
Kid-friendly – A fun, handheld meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
Small flour tortillas
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
American cheese slices
Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Pickles
Burger sauce or mayo
Mustard and ketchup (optional)

Directions

Preheat a skillet or griddle – Use medium-high heat for the best sear.
Season the beef – Mix ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Form small meatballs (about 2 ounces each).
Smash onto tortillas – Place a tortilla on a flat surface, then put a meatball on top. Use parchment paper and a heavy spatula or burger press to smash the beef into the tortilla.
Cook the tacos – Place the tortilla meat-side down onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the beef develops a crispy crust. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Melt the cheese – Add a slice of American cheese on top of the meat while still warm.
Assemble the tacos – Top with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and burger sauce. Drizzle with ketchup and mustard if desired.
Serve immediately – Enjoy your smash burger tacos hot and fresh!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 (8 tacos)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy mayo.
Bacon smash tacos: Add crispy bacon for extra flavor.
Caramelized onions: Sauté onions for a sweet, savory topping.
Low-carb option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
Different cheese: Swap American cheese for cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover taco components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the taco meat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before assembling fresh tacos.
Freezing: Not recommended, as tortillas can become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Flour tortillas work best because they hold up better, but you can try corn tortillas if you prefer.

What’s the best ground beef for smash burger tacos?

An 80/20 blend gives the best balance of juiciness and crispiness.

Can I make these without a griddle?

Yes! A cast-iron skillet or nonstick pan works just as well.

How do I get a crispy crust on the meat?

Press the beef firmly onto the skillet and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping.

Can I make these ahead of time?

They are best fresh, but you can prepare the toppings and beef patties ahead for quick assembly.

What sauce should I use?

Burger sauce, mayo, or a mix of ketchup and mustard all work great.

Can I add toppings like avocado?

Yes! Feel free to customize with avocado, grilled onions, or even a fried egg.

Are these good for meal prep?

They’re best eaten fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance.

Can I cook these on a grill?

Yes! Just use a griddle or cast-iron pan on the grill.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Smash Burger Tacos are a game-changing meal that brings together the crispy, juicy goodness of a smash burger with the convenience of a taco. Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Try them tonight and enjoy a delicious new way to enjoy burgers!