Description
These Animal Style Smashburger Tacos combine the juicy, crispy edges of classic smashburgers with the convenience and flavor of tacos. Ground beef patties are smashed thin in a hot skillet for a perfect crust, topped with melted cheddar, and layered with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and a tangy Thousand Island-style sauce all wrapped in warm tortillas. A quick and satisfying American-inspired meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Smashburger Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided into 1/2 tablespoon per patty)
For the Tacos
- 4 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced pickles
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 2 tablespoons Thousand Island or special burger sauce
- Optional sliced jalapeños for heat
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot and ready for cooking.
- Form the patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and loosely shape each into a ball, avoiding compacting too tightly for better texture.
- Cook each patty: Melt 1/2 tablespoon of butter on the skillet per burger portion, place each beef ball on the skillet, then smash it flat with a spatula until very thin. Season immediately with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges develop a crispy crust.
- Flip and melt cheese: Flip each patty carefully, add shredded cheddar cheese on top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patty is cooked through.
- Warm tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a separate pan over low heat or microwave briefly until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the tacos: Place one cooked smashburger patty on each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, pickles, onions, and drizzle with Thousand Island or special sauce. Add sliced jalapeños if desired for extra heat.
- Serve: Fold the tortillas over the fillings and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Press the burgers firmly when smashing to get extra crispy edges.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet to allow proper searing and avoid steaming the patties.
- Try swapping cheddar for other flavorful cheeses like American or pepper jack for variety.
- Adding crispy bacon strips can enhance the savory richness of the tacos.
