Go Back
smash burger taco
info.thekitcheen

Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

Juicy, crispy smash burger patties served in warm tortillas with all your favorite toppings and a killer secret sauce. These Smash Burger Tacos are the ultimate fusion of taco night and burger night – ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for any crowd!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Burger Patties:
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil or butter
  • 6 slices American cheese
For the Secret Smash Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp pickle juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Pinch of sugar
For Toppings & Assembly:
  • 8-10 street-size flour tortillas
  • Shredded iceberg lettuce
  • Diced white onion
  • Sliced dill pickles
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced avocado or guacamole
  • Hot sauce optional

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet or flat griddle
  • Metal spatula
  • Mixing bowls
  • Paper towels
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Tortilla warmer (optional)

Method
 

Make the Sauce:
  1. Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use (can be made ahead).
  2. Prep Toppings:
  3. Chop all veggies and organize in bowls for easy assembly.
Smash the Patties:
  1. Divide ground beef into 8–10 golf ball-sized portions.
  2. Heat skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking hot.
  3. Add oil, then place beef balls with space between.
  4. Smash flat with spatula and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Let cook undisturbed for 1–2 mins until crispy edges form.
  6. Flip and top immediately with cheese.
  7. Cook another 30 seconds, then remove and let rest.
Warm the Tortillas:
  1. Quickly heat each tortilla in the same skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.
  2. Keep warm in a towel or warmer.
Assemble Tacos:
  1. Spread sauce on each tortilla.
  2. Add lettuce, a cheesy patty, toppings of your choice, and extra sauce.
  3. Serve immediately while warm!

Notes

Use 80/20 beef for best flavor and juiciness.
Don’t season meat before smashing – crust forms better without it.
For parties, prep sauce and toppings ahead. Smash patties fresh for best results.
You can swap American cheese for cheddar, but it won’t melt as evenly.
Don’t skip the pickle juice in the sauce – it's the secret ingredient!