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Crispy Smash Burger Tacos

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These crispy smash burger tacos combine juicy, caramelized beef patties with fresh crunchy veggies and a tangy sauce for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or avocado oil
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas, warmed
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce or cabbage
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp pickle juice or apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, and smoked paprika until smooth. Set aside in the fridge to let flavors meld while you cook (about 5 minutes).
  2. Prep the veggies: Wash and shred the lettuce or cabbage, dice the tomato, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the cilantro. Set aside in separate bowls for easy assembly.
  3. Heat your skillet: Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Let it get shimmering hot (2-3 minutes).
  4. Form the beef balls: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions, about 2 oz each. Roll loosely into balls—not too compact, so they smash easily.
  5. Season and smash: Place a beef ball into the hot skillet, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Using your spatula, press down firmly to flatten into a thin patty about ¼ inch thick. Repeat with remaining balls, working in batches if needed (1-2 minutes per side).
  6. Cook patties: Let the patties cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges are dark brown and crispy. Flip carefully and cook for another 1-2 minutes. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top immediately after flipping to melt.
  7. Warm the tortillas: While the last batch is cooking, warm your tortillas in a dry pan or microwave wrapped in a damp towel.
  8. Assemble the tacos: Spread a spoonful of the sauce on each tortilla. Layer with a crispy smash burger patty, then top with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, red onion slices, and fresh cilantro.
  9. Serve immediately: Enjoy hot off the skillet for maximum crispiness and fresh crunch.

Notes

Use cold ground beef for best smashing results. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain high heat and crispy edges. Press patties firmly but gently to avoid breaking. Warm tortillas just before assembly. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas. Cheese is optional. Leftovers store well separately and reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, tacos, crispy burger, quick dinner, easy recipe, ground beef, fresh veggies, homemade sauce

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/crispy-smash-burger-tacos-recipe-easy-homemade-fresh-veggie-crunch/