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Smash Burger Tacos with Burger Sauce Recipe

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4.1 from 10 reviews

These Smash Burger Tacos combine the bold flavors of a classic smash burger with the convenience of a taco. Seasoned ground beef is pressed thinly onto tortillas, pan-fried until crispy, then topped with melted cheddar, fresh veggies, pickles, and a tangy homemade burger sauce. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that blends American burger goodness with Mexican flair.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings

Ingredients

Smash Burger Tacos:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 5 small Corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar

Toppings:

  • 1 1/4 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1 small red onion, very thinly sliced
  • 2/3 cup freshly diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup Baby Pickles, halved

Burger Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon gherkin pickle brine or pickle relish
  • Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the seasoned beef mixture: In a bowl, combine 1 pound lean ground beef with 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
  2. Make the burger sauce: In a small bowl, stir together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon gherkin pickle brine or pickle relish, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Set aside for flavors to meld.
  3. Form and press beef onto tortillas: Take a small handful (about 2–3 tablespoons) of the seasoned beef mixture and press it thinly and evenly onto one side of each of the 5 tortillas.
  4. Heat the skillet: Warm a skillet over medium heat to get ready for cooking the tacos.
  5. Cook the smash burger tacos: Place each tortilla meat-side down in the heated skillet one at a time. Press gently with a spatula and cook for 3–4 minutes until the meat is browned and crispy.
  6. Flip and add cheese: Flip the taco so the tortilla side is down. Immediately sprinkle about 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the cooked meat side. Cook for an additional 1 minute until the cheese melts and the tortilla crisps slightly.
  7. Add toppings and sauce: Remove the cooked tacos from the skillet. Top each with shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, diced tomatoes, and halved baby pickles. Drizzle with the prepared burger sauce.
  8. Serve: Fold the tacos and enjoy immediately while they are hot and crispy for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use either corn or flour tortillas based on your preference; both work well for this recipe.
  • Pressing the beef very thin on the tortillas ensures a crispy exterior and even cooking.
  • If preferred, adjust the taco seasoning amount to taste or use homemade seasoning.
  • To make the burger sauce ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For spicier tacos, add a dash of hot sauce to the burger sauce or top with jalapeños.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion