Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
Introduction
Smash Burger Tacos combine the best of two favorites: juicy smashed burgers and soft, handheld tortillas. This quick and satisfying recipe brings bold flavors together for an easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 tortillas
- 4 slices cheese (cheddar or American works well)
- Burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, etc.)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Divide the ground beef into equal portions and place each portion onto the hot skillet.
- Step 2: Using a spatula, press down firmly on each portion to create a thin patty (“smash”). Cook until the edges are crispy and browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 3: Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on each. Cook for another minute until the cheese melts and the patties are cooked through.
- Step 4: Warm the tortillas either in a dry pan or microwave. Place each patty on a tortilla and top with your favorite burger toppings.
- Step 5: Fold the tortillas around the patties and enjoy your smash burger tacos while hot.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, season the beef with salt and pepper before smashing.
- Try using different cheeses like pepper jack or Swiss for a unique twist.
- Add spicy mayo or avocado slices for a creamy texture.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Storage
Store any leftover patties separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tortillas and toppings should be kept cool and fresh. Reheat patties gently in a skillet or microwave, then assemble fresh tacos.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used, but cooking times may vary. Be sure to cook the patties through thoroughly as these meats need a bit longer than beef.
How do I prevent tortillas from tearing when folding?
Warm the tortillas before assembling; this makes them more pliable and less likely to tear. You can warm them on a dry skillet for about 20 seconds per side or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15 seconds.
PrintSmash Burger Tacos Recipe
Smash Burger Tacos combine the juicy, flavorful goodness of classic smashed beef burgers with the convenience of handheld tacos. Using simple ingredients like ground beef, tortillas, melted cheese, and your favorite burger toppings, this recipe offers a delicious fusion perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 tacos 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Beef Patty
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Tortillas and Toppings
- 6 small tortillas (flour or corn based on preference)
- 6 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese
- Lettuce, shredded
- Tomato, thinly sliced
- Pickles, sliced
- Onions, thinly sliced
- Ketchup, as desired
- Mustard, as desired
- Mayonnaise, as desired
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions. Season each portion lightly with salt and black pepper. Keep the beef portions ready for smashing.
- Heat the skillet: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot enough to sizzle beef immediately upon contact.
- Smash the beef: Place a beef portion onto the hot skillet, then press it down firmly using a spatula or a burger press to form a thin patty. Cook for about 2 minutes without moving to develop a crust.
- Flip and add cheese: Carefully flip the patty and immediately place a slice of cheese on top. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the beef is cooked through.
- Warm the tortillas: While cooking the patties, warm the tortillas on a separate pan or directly on the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the tacos: Place the cooked smash burger patty with melted cheese onto each warm tortilla. Top with your preferred burger toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise.
- Serve immediately: Fold the tortillas around the burger and toppings like a taco and serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh ground beef with a good fat ratio (80/20) for juicy patties.
- Press the patties thin to get the signature crispy edges of smash burgers.
- If preferred, corn tortillas can be warmed directly on the skillet for extra flavor.
- Customize toppings to your liking—jalapeños or BBQ sauce are delicious alternatives.
- For a crispier tortilla, lightly toast each after assembling the tacos.
Keywords: smash burger tacos, smashed beef tacos, quick tacos, easy burger recipe, taco recipe

