If you haven’t tried smashed burger tacos yet, you’re in for a treat. It’s the juicy, crispy-edged burger you love, flattened right onto a tortilla and seared to perfection. Topped with melty cheese and your favorite fixings, it’s a mashup that’s as fun as it is tasty.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
– 8 small flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Ketchup for drizzling
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Beef
In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Divide the beef into 8 equal portions and shape them into small balls.
Cook the Onions
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onions until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sear the Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high. Place a ball of ground beef onto the skillet, then immediately smash it down with a spatula to form a thin patty. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Repeat for all beef portions.
Assemble the Tacos
Place each smashed burger patty onto a flour tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and some of the cooked onions.
Finish with Ketchup
Drizzle ketchup over each taco for a tangy kick. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the fillings.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add pickles for extra crunch and tang.
2. Mix some Worcestershire sauce into the beef for added depth of flavor.
3. Top with crispy bacon bits for more savory goodness.
4. Use homemade tortillas for a fresher taste.
5. Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for creaminess.
Side Dishes to Serve
Pair these smashed burger tacos with a crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the tacos. Sweet potato fries or onion rings can also be great accompaniments if you’re in the mood for something hearty.
Substitutions
1. Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
2. Swap cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for different flavors.
3. Substitute ketchup with barbecue sauce for a smokier taste.
4. Try corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas if preferred.
Recipe Variations
1. Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you like it spicy.
2. Use blue cheese instead of cheddar for an upscale twist.
3. Incorporate mushrooms sautéed with garlic into your taco filling.
4. Try adding sliced avocado or fresh tomato slices before serving for freshness.
Enjoy making these delicious tacos that blend the best of burgers and tacos into one delightful meal!
