If you’ve ever debated between making burgers or tacos for dinner, let me make life easier for you — you can have both! Smash burger tacos are exactly what they sound like: juicy, crispy-edged burgers smashed into tortillas instead of buns. It’s a game-changer that’s taken over social media, and for good reason.
These tacos are crispy, cheesy, and loaded with all your favorite burger toppings, but they’re wrapped in soft tortillas instead of bulky buns. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends on game day, smash burger tacos will steal the show.
Where Did Smash Burger Tacos Come From?
Like most food trends, the smash burger taco craze started online, with people sharing their twist on classic smash burgers. The smash burger itself dates back to the 1920s, when cooks realized that pressing ground beef onto a hot griddle created those irresistible crispy edges.
But in true American fashion, foodies on TikTok and Instagram took things to the next level by smashing the burger directly onto a tortilla. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and creativity — and let’s be real, it tastes incredible.
Why Smash Burger Tacos Are So Popular
So, why is everyone raving about this recipe? Well, for starters, it’s quick and easy. You don’t need a fancy burger press, and there’s no messing around with buns. Just grab a pack of tortillas, some ground beef, and your favorite toppings, and you’re ready to go.
Plus, smash burger tacos are customizable, which makes them perfect for families. Picky eaters? No problem. Set up a toppings bar, and everyone can build their own taco exactly how they like it. Want something spicy? Add jalapeños. Craving a classic cheeseburger flavor? Stick with American cheese, lettuce, and pickles.
And let’s not forget the crispy tortilla trick. When you smash the burger into the tortilla, the beef juices soak into the tortilla, giving it a crispy, flavorful texture that’s hard to beat.
What You’ll Need to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Before you get started, here’s what you need to gather:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for the best balance of fat and flavor)
- Small flour tortillas (street taco size)
- Salt and pepper
- American cheese slices
- Toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard, etc.
- Burger sauce or mayo (optional but highly recommended)
Equipment:
- A large skillet or griddle
- Spatula (preferably a sturdy one for smashing)
- Paper towels for any grease splatter
Step-by-Step Instructions for Smash Burger Tacos
1. Preheat Your Skillet
First things first — get your skillet or griddle hot. You want it at medium-high heat to achieve that perfect sear. A hot surface is what gives smash burgers their signature crispy edges.
2. Roll the Ground Beef
Take your ground beef and form it into golf ball-sized portions. You don’t need to shape them into perfect patties; the magic happens when you smash them.
3. Place the Tortilla on the Skillet
Once the skillet is hot, place a tortilla directly on it. This is where the smash burger taco differs from a traditional burger — the tortilla acts as the “bun” from the start.
4. Smash the Beef onto the Tortilla
Place one of the beef balls on top of the tortilla. Using your spatula, press down firmly for about 10 seconds to flatten the beef and spread it across the tortilla. Don’t be shy! The more you press, the crispier those edges will get.
5. Season the Beef
While the beef cooks, sprinkle it with salt and pepper. Keep it simple — smash burgers don’t need fancy seasoning because the flavor comes from the caramelized beef.
6. Flip and Add Cheese
After about 2-3 minutes, carefully flip the tortilla and beef patty. Now’s the time to add a slice of cheese. American cheese is the classic choice because it melts beautifully, but feel free to use whatever cheese you prefer.
7. Let It Cook Until Crispy
Let the taco cook for another 1-2 minutes until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Best Toppings for Smash Burger Tacos
Toppings can make or break your burger taco. Here are some classic and creative ideas to try:
Classic Burger Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Pickles
- Sliced onions
- Ketchup and mustard
- Burger sauce (a mix of mayo, ketchup, and a little pickle juice)
Creative Toppings:
- Jalapeños for some heat
- Crispy bacon
- Guacamole or avocado slices
- Grilled onions
- BBQ sauce
- Hot sauce for a spicy kick
Tips for Making the Perfect Smash Burger Taco
- Use Fresh Tortillas
- Fresh tortillas crisp up better on the skillet and hold together well when loaded with toppings.
- Don’t Overwork the Beef
- Keep your ground beef loose and avoid over-mixing it. This helps create a juicier patty.
- Smash It Hard
- The key to a great smash burger taco is the smashing technique. Press down firmly with your spatula to get those crispy edges.
- Use a Sturdy Spatula
- A flimsy spatula won’t cut it. You need a sturdy one to really press the beef into the tortilla.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists to try:
- Tex-Mex Style: Add guacamole, salsa, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning to your beef.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Taco: Top your taco with crispy bacon and cheddar cheese.
- Spicy Smash Burger Taco: Use pepper jack cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of hot sauce.
- BBQ Smash Taco: Swap out the ketchup for BBQ sauce and add crispy onion rings.
Serving Suggestions
Smash burger tacos are pretty filling on their own, but if you want to make it a complete meal, here are some ideas for sides:
- French fries or tater tots
- Pickle chips or fried pickles
- Coleslaw
- Loaded nachos
- Mac and cheese
- A great meal deserves an equally delicious side. While fries are a natural choice, why not switch it up with What Exactly Are Sidewinder Fries?
? These crispy, twisty fries are the perfect complement to the juicy, cheesy tacos. With their unique shape and extra crunch, they hold up well to dips and sauces — making them ideal for your next burger taco night.
Healthy Swaps for Smash Burger Tacos
If you’re watching your calories or looking for a lighter twist, there are plenty of ways to make smash burger tacos a little healthier without losing that crave-worthy flavor. Start by swapping out 80/20 beef for lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken. While beef is classic, ground turkey or chicken offers a leaner option with less fat, and they still crisp up beautifully when smashed onto a hot tortilla.
For the tortillas, you can opt for whole wheat or low-carb flour tortillas to cut back on carbs and boost fiber. If you’re feeling adventurous, some people even make their own taco-sized lettuce wraps for a bun-less option. Just be sure to pick a lettuce type that holds its shape well, like butter lettuce or romaine.
And don’t forget to watch your sauces. A lot of bottled burger sauces are loaded with sugar and calories. Make your own at home with Greek yogurt as a base, adding mustard, a little ketchup, and some pickle juice for that classic tang.
Make It Spicy: Turning Up the Heat on Smash Burger Tacos
If you’re someone who loves a little heat in your meals, there are tons of ways to spice up your smash burger tacos. Start by mixing some chipotle powder or cayenne pepper into your ground beef before smashing it. This will add a smoky, spicy kick right from the start.
For toppings, think about adding sliced jalapeños or pickled jalapeños for a fresh, tangy heat. If you want something even more intense, try hot pepper relish or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Feeling adventurous? Infuse your burger sauce with sriracha or your preferred hot sauce for a spicy drizzle that pairs perfectly with the melted cheese and crispy tortilla.
Cheese Choices: What’s the Best Cheese for Smash Burger Tacos?
The right cheese can take your smash burger tacos to the next level. While American cheese is the classic choice for smash burgers — thanks to its perfectly creamy melt — you’ve got plenty of other options if you want to mix things up.
- Cheddar: Sharp and flavorful, cheddar adds a rich bite to your tacos.
- Pepper Jack: This is the way to go if you love a little spice in your cheese.
- Swiss: If you’re going for a classic burger flavor with a slightly nutty twist, Swiss is a great pick.
- Mozzarella: Want a gooey, stringy melt? Mozzarella will do the trick.
If you’re feeling indulgent, consider a cheese blend — cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack work really well together. And if you’re making a Tex-Mex version, you can’t go wrong with queso fresco or cotija cheese for a more authentic taco feel.
Fun Flavor Twists to Try: Beyond the Classic Burger Taco
One of the best things about smash burger tacos is how customizable they are. You can start with the classic cheeseburger toppings or branch out with new flavors to keep things exciting.
Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Tex-Mex Smash Burger Tacos
- Add taco seasoning to your ground beef and top with guacamole, salsa, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
- BBQ Bacon Smash Burger Tacos
- Swap out ketchup for barbecue sauce, and add crispy bacon and fried onion rings for a smoky, savory taco.
- Korean-Inspired Smash Burger Tacos
- Season your beef with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar, then top with kimchi and a drizzle of spicy mayo.
- California-Style Smash Burger Tacos
- Load them up with avocado, sprouts, and a squeeze of fresh lemon for a light, fresh twist.
The possibilities are endless. Once you’ve mastered the basic smash burger taco, feel free to get creative with your toppings and sauces.
Why You Should Smash Your Burgers at Home Instead of Going Out
Sure, there are plenty of burger joints offering smash burgers on their menus these days, but there’s something special about making them at home — especially when you turn them into tacos. First, you’re in control of everything: the type of beef, the seasonings, the toppings, and the cheese. Plus, homemade smash burger tacos are far more affordable than ordering at a restaurant.
Another big reason to smash your own burgers at home? Freshness. Nothing beats the taste of a burger fresh off the skillet, with that crispy crust still sizzling. And since it only takes a few minutes to make each taco, it’s way faster than waiting for takeout.
So, fire up that skillet and start smashing. Your taste buds — and your wallet — will thank you.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Smash Burger Tacos
Smash burger tacos are a meal in themselves, but if you want to serve them as part of a larger spread, here are some great side dish ideas that pair perfectly with them:
- Crispy French Fries: A classic burger side that never goes out of style.
- Pickle Chips: The tangy crunch balances out the richness of the tacos.
- Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy coleslaw can add a refreshing element to the meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: For a slightly healthier (and sweeter) twist, swap regular fries for sweet potato fries.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn with a sprinkle of chili powder and lime is a perfect match for the tacos.
And if you’re hosting a party, don’t forget the drinks. A cold beer, iced tea, or even a margarita will complement the tacos beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other meats besides beef?
A: Yes! You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat if you prefer.
Q: Do I have to use American cheese?
A: Not at all. While American cheese melts best, you can swap it for cheddar, Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: These tacos are best served fresh, but you can prepare the beef ahead of time and quickly reheat the tacos when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts: Smash Burger Tacos Are a Must-Try Recipe
If you’re looking for something fun and different to shake up your usual dinner routine, smash burger tacos are the answer. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, these tacos are sure to be a hit.
So, the next time you’re craving burgers or tacos — or both — give this recipe a try. You’ll wonder why you ever bothered with buns in the first place. Trust me, your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you!