Before we dive into the delightful chaos that is the smash burger taco, let’s talk about what to pair with this culinary gem. When you finally assemble your smash burger tacos, consider these complementary sides to elevate your meal:
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Nothing beats the satisfying crunch of sweet potato fries. Toss them in a bit of olive oil and sea salt. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory profile of your tacos.
Fresh Avocado Salad
This salad brings in a creamy, lush texture that’s hard to resist. Simply combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a drizzle of lime juice. This vibrant salad offers a refreshing contrast to the indulgent tacos.
Spicy Pickle Chips
For those who like a bit of zing, served alongside your tacos, a plate of spicy pickle chips provides a delightful crunch and a kick of flavor that resonates with the overall taste of the dish.
Why This Recipe Works
Simplicity of Preparation
This recipe doesn’t require graduate-level culinary skills. The steps are straightforward, making it accessible for anyone, regardless of kitchen prowess.
Flavor Diversity
The balance between the crispy, juicy smash burger and the soft, flavorful tortilla creates a unique taste profile. You get the perfect marriage of textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more.
Health Consciousness
This taco version allows for healthier choices. Using quality ground beef and fresh toppings, you can enjoy the rich flavors without the guilt. Plus, it’s easy to switch up ingredients to fit various dietary needs.
Customizability
Want to swap out ground beef for turkey? Go for it! Don’t have muenster cheese but love pepper jack? You got it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it your own.
How Does It Taste?
Ever took a bite of a burger and thought life couldn’t get better? Now, imagine those flavors wrapped inside a warm tortilla.
You’re not just tasting seasoned beef; you’re experiencing a festival of rich, savory notes combined with the subtle kick from toppings like crispy lettuce and zesty pickles. The textures meld perfectly.
One minute you’re biting into a crunch, next a creamy layer of cheese hits you. It’s a flavor explosion that brings satisfaction. Are you drooling yet?
What Sets This Recipe Apart?
Numerous smash burger taco variations exist. However, what differentiates this recipe are two vital components:
Homemade Sauce
The burger sauce in this recipe combines mayonnaise, smoked paprika, and pickles, providing the ideal finishing touch. It adds a creamy yet tangy layer that enhances the overall flavor.
Quality Ingredients
Utilizing an 80/20 ground beef ratio ensures your burger’s juiciness. The tortillas are soft and pliable, letting you tear into them without missing a bite.
The Ingredients
Burger Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped bread & butter pickles
- 1 tablespoon pickle brine
- 10 cracks freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For the Burger
- 1 pound ground beef, 80/20 fat ratio
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 10 cracks freshly ground black pepper
- 6 (six-inch) soft flour tortillas
- 6 slices of muenster or provolone cheese
- Shredded iceberg lettuce, diced white onion, and crispy dill pickle chips for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, pickles, pickle brine, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and hot honey. Mix until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Season the Beef
In another bowl, take your ground beef and season it with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Smash and Cook the Burger
Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Divide the beef into six balls. Place one ball in the skillet and press it down firmly with a spatula to create a thin patty. Cook for about 3 minutes. Flip it over, add cheese on top, and let it melt while cooking for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Heat the Tortillas
In a separate pan, lightly warm the tortillas until soft. This makes them more flexible for folding.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
Spread a generous amount of burger sauce on each tortilla. Add your cheesy smash burger patty, followed by a mound of shredded lettuce, diced onion, and pickle chips.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Fold your taco, take a bite, and relish the explosion of flavors!
Notes
- Use High-Quality Beef: The better the beef, the juicier the burger.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each patty space to cook well and retain its juices.
- Customize the Toppings: Your favorite toppings are encouraged! Jalapeños or guacamole are great alternatives.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like it spicy, add more hot honey or even some sriracha to the sauce.
- Make It Ahead: The sauce can be made a day in advance to enhance flavor.
Conclusion
The smash burger taco is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and creativity. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or just treating yourself on a casual weeknight, these tacos are sure to please.
With their juicy, savory bites wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with refreshing garnishes, every bite is an adventure. Give this recipe a try and let your taste buds do the talking! Bon appétit!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Smash Burger Taco Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals
You’re at your favorite backyard barbecue place, the sun is shining, and your taste buds are ready for something exhilarating. Enter the smash burger taco—a splendid mash-up of juicy ground beef and taco flair wrapped into a perfectly soft tortilla.
This dish takes the best of both worlds and creates a fiesta for your taste buds. As a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, I’m always on the lookout for exciting ways to combine flavors, and trust me, this creation is no exception.
Why smash burgers? They’re rich, crispy, and packed with flavor. And why tacos? They celebrate freshness and creativity in every bite. When combined, they produce a mouthwatering experience that you won't forget!
Ingredients
Burger Sauce
For the Burger
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, pickles, pickle brine, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and hot honey. Mix until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Season the Beef
-
In another bowl, take your ground beef and season it with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Smash and Cook the Burger
-
Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Divide the beef into six balls. Place one ball in the skillet and press it down firmly with a spatula to create a thin patty. Cook for about 3 minutes. Flip it over, add cheese on top, and let it melt while cooking for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Heat the Tortillas
-
In a separate pan, lightly warm the tortillas until soft. This makes them more flexible for folding.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
-
Spread a generous amount of burger sauce on each tortilla. Add your cheesy smash burger patty, followed by a mound of shredded lettuce, diced onion, and pickle chips.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
-
Fold your taco, take a bite, and relish the explosion of flavors!
Servings 9
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 484kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24.9g39%
- Saturated Fat 9.1g46%
- Trans Fat 0.3g
- Cholesterol 85mg29%
- Sodium 1561mg66%
- Total Carbohydrate 33g11%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 31g62%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use High-Quality Beef: The better the beef, the juicier the burger.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each patty space to cook well and retain its juices.
- Customize the Toppings: Your favorite toppings are encouraged! Jalapeños or guacamole are great alternatives.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like it spicy, add more hot honey or even some sriracha to the sauce.
- Make It Ahead: The sauce can be made a day in advance to enhance flavor.
