Save Experience the ultimate flavor fusion with these Mini Smash Burger Tacos. Combining the crispy, toasted texture of a tortilla with the juicy, caramelized sear of a classic smash burger, these bite-sized treats are a guaranteed hit. Whether you are hosting a lively backyard party or looking for a fun twist on a weeknight dinner, these tacos deliver all the savory satisfaction of a burger in a perfectly portable form.
Save The secret to these tacos lies in the "smash." By pressing the beef directly onto the tortilla against a hot skillet, the meat sears into the flour shell, infusing it with flavor while creating those coveted crispy edges. It’s a simple technique that transforms basic ingredients into something extraordinary.
Ingredients
- Beef: 450 g (1 lb) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Taco Shells: 8 mini flour tortillas (10–12 cm / 4–5 inches diameter), 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Cheese: 8 slices American cheese or cheddar, quartered
- Toppings: 1/2 small red onion (finely diced), 1 cup shredded lettuce, 1 ripe tomato (diced), 1/4 cup pickles (chopped), 1/3 cup burger sauce or mayonnaise, 2 tbsp yellow mustard (optional), 1 tbsp ketchup (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the beef
- Divide the ground beef into 8 equal balls (about 55 g / 2 oz each). Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Heat the pan
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Step 3: Smash the patties
- Place a tortilla on the skillet. Place a beef ball in the center. Using a spatula or burger press, smash the beef ball flat until it nearly covers the tortilla.
- Step 4: Sear until crispy
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, pressing gently, until the beef is browned and crispy on the bottom.
- Step 5: Flip and melt cheese
- Flip the tortilla and beef together. Top the beef side with a piece of cheese. Cook for 1 more minute until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden and crisp.
- Step 6: Repeat batches
- Remove and keep warm. Repeat with remaining tortillas and beef, adding more oil as needed.
- Step 7: Assemble and serve
- Fill each mini taco with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and desired sauces. Fold and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra crispiness, brush both sides of the tortilla lightly with oil before cooking. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before smashing to get that signature browned crust on the beef.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap American cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. For a spicy kick, add pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your topping list.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these mini tacos with a side of crispy fries or a simple garden salad for a complete meal. They also go great with a side of onion rings or sweet potato wedges.
Save These Mini Smash Burger Tacos are a testament to how creative cooking can breathe new life into classic flavors. With their satisfying crunch and juicy filling, they are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the fun of smashing and the joy of eating!
Kitchen Help
- → What ground beef is best for these mini tacos?
An 80/20 blend of ground beef is ideal for juicy and flavorful patties with a good fat ratio.
- → How can I make the taco shells extra crispy?
Brush both sides of the tortillas lightly with vegetable oil before cooking to enhance crispiness.
- → Can I replace American cheese with other types?
Yes, cheddar or pepper jack cheese are great alternatives to add variety in flavor.
- → What toppings work well with smashed beef in tacos?
Shredded lettuce, diced tomato, red onion, pickles, and burger sauce complement the beef and cheese perfectly.
- → How should I cook the smashed beef patties?
Press ground beef balls thinly on a hot skillet or griddle and cook 2–3 minutes per side until crisp and browned.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
While best served warm and fresh, you can prepare components like seasoned beef and toppings ahead for quick assembly.