Smash Burger Taco with Cheese

Try taking all the craveable flavor of a classic smash burger and serving it up taco-style With a cheesy crust and all the fresh toppings you love this easy recipe is the best of both worlds—ten minute comfort food you can eat with your hands

The first time I made these my family was so excited they started making requests for taco-smash nights every week These hit that perfect sweet spot between burger and street food

Ingredients

• Ground round eighty five percent lean: this makes for juicy flavorful patties if possible look for fresh ground meat for best texture
• Kosher salt: balances flavor throughout and helps brown the beef
• Freshly ground black pepper: adds warmth and enhances the burger taste try to grind it right before making for best aroma
• Flour tortillas six inch: size lets you fold the smash burger perfectly choose soft tortillas that bend easily
• American cheese: classic melt try deli slices for the creamiest result
• Iceberg lettuce: shredded for crunch and freshness
• Diced onion: for sharp flavor and classic burger feel
• Mayonnaise: for a creamy base in the special sauce choose full-fat for a richer flavor
• Ketchup: adds tang and that familiar burger note
• Mustard: lends a hint of sharpness classic yellow works great
• Relish: brings sweet crunch opt for one with diced pickles and minimal added sugar
• Hot sauce: for subtle heat use your favorite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Burger Sauce:

Mix mayonnaise ketchup mustard relish and hot sauce together in a small bowl until blended smooth Let this sit to let flavors meld

Preheat the Griddle:

Heat your griddle or a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat Make sure it gets very hot as this helps build the burger crust

Portion and Season the Beef:

Divide the ground beef into four loose portions Do not overwork the meat Place each mound directly on the hot griddle Sprinkle each pile with salt and pepper to season the surface

Smash the Patties Under Tortillas:

Working one at a time place a tortilla over each beef portion Use a spatula to firmly press down smashing each mound so the beef spreads to cover the shape and size of the tortilla This helps the beef make a savory crust

Cook Until Golden and Crispy:

Let the meat side cook for about two minutes The edges will brown and crisp up As it cooks the tortilla will warm and gently toast

Flip and Melt Cheese:

Flip each patty so the beef side is now facing up Place half a slice of American cheese over the beef Let it melt just until gooey and the tortilla gets golden brown underneath

Add Toppings and Dress:

Remove each patty from the heat Top with a handful of shredded lettuce and a sprinkle of diced onion Drizzle the prepared burger sauce over the toppings

Fold and Serve:

Fold each smash burger taco in half pressing gently Serve while still warm and crispy for the best experience

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Hands down my favorite thing is how the crispy tortilla hugs the beef and cheese every bite is a flavor and texture bomb Last summer we made these while camping over a portable griddle and even the kids wanted to help flip them and pile on the toppings

Storage Tips

Store leftover burger patties and tortillas separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days For best results rewarm the beef on a skillet and assemble tacos just before eating so everything stays crisp Lettuce and onion should be stored in a separate bag to keep them fresh and crunchy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out ground round for ground chuck or turkey if you like leaning a little healthier Cheddar cheese or Swiss work nicely for a different flavor If you want a punchier sauce try chopped jalapeños instead of relish and a splash of sriracha for extra heat

Serving Suggestions

Serve these smash burger tacos with classic picnic sides like potato chips pickles or a fresh tomato salad If you want them extra fun lay out toppings like chopped tomatoes jalapeños or pickle slices so everyone can build their own

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Cultural and Historical Context

Smash burgers trace their origins to classic American diners where grilling beef thin and crispy made for quick bold flavors The taco twist comes from modern fusion food trucks lining city streets This playful recipe celebrates both traditions making familiar comfort food totally new

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use another type of cheese instead of American?

Yes, feel free to substitute cheddar, Swiss, or any melty cheese that complements the beef and fixings.

→ What type of ground beef works best?

Choose ground round or any beef with moderate fat content for juicy, flavorful patties that crisp well on the griddle.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Mix the sauce up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to assemble your tacos.

→ Are corn tortillas a suitable substitute for flour?

Flour tortillas give the best texture, but corn tortillas may be used for a slightly different bite. Adjust cooking time as needed.

→ What other toppings pair well with these tacos?

Consider sliced pickles, tomatoes, or shredded cheese for extra flavor and crunch. Customize to your liking!

→ How can I reheat leftovers?

Warm leftovers on a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness, or use a preheated oven for a few minutes.