SMASH BURGER TACOS WITH SPECIAL SAUCE (15 MINUTES)
These smash burger tacos combine crispy-edged seasoned beef, melted cheddar, soft tortillas, and a creamy special sauce in a fun 15-minute dinner. They're quick, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- Large cast-iron or nonstick skillet
- Small mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Small whisk or spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
For the Burger Tacos:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 8 slices sliced American or cheddar cheese
- ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
- ½ cup dill pickle slices
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Special Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Make the Special Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until smooth. Refrigerate while preparing the tacos.
Season the Beef
- Divide the ground beef into 8 loose portions. Season lightly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Build the Tacos
- Place one portion of beef directly onto each tortilla and press it into a very thin, even layer that reaches close to the edges.
Smash and Cook
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the tortillas beef-side down in the hot skillet, working in batches if necessary. Press firmly with a spatula and cook for 2–3 minutes until the beef develops crispy browned edges.
Flip and Add Cheese
- Flip each taco so the tortilla is against the skillet. Immediately top the beef with a slice of cheese and cook for 1–2 minutes until the tortilla is crisp and the cheese is melted.
Add Toppings
- Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced onion, and pickle slices. Drizzle generously with the special sauce.
Serve
- Fold the tacos and serve immediately while the beef is crispy and the cheese is warm and melted.
Notes
- 15-Minute Dinner: These smash burger tacos come together quickly with minimal prep, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
- Crispy Edges: Pressing the beef thinly against the tortilla creates browned, crispy edges while keeping the center juicy.
- Family Friendly: Set out toppings separately so everyone can customize their own tacos.
- Easy Variation: Add jalapeños, sliced avocado, caramelized onions, bacon, or shredded pepper jack cheese.
- Best Served Fresh: Enjoy immediately for the crispiest tortillas and juiciest beef.