Smash Tacos: A Delicious Fusion of Burgers and Tacos

Smash tacos are a creative fusion of two classic favorites: the crispy smash burger and the versatile taco. This dish brings together the juicy, flavorful elements of a smashed burger patty and wraps it in a soft tortilla, giving you a deliciously satisfying experience in every bite. Whether you’re a burger lover or a taco enthusiast, smash tacos offer the best of both worlds. In this article, we’ll guide you through making smash tacos at home, explore various topping options, share side dish ideas, and answer frequently asked questions.

What Are Smash Tacos?

They are essentially a taco version of a smash burger. Instead of using a bun, a soft flour tortilla acts as the base, holding a crispy smashed beef patty, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings. The smash taco is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy the rich flavors of a burger in the convenient form of a taco. This dish is perfect for parties, family dinners, or even a quick weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love Smash Tacos

There are several reasons why smash tacos have quickly gained popularity:

Unique Fusion Flavor: Smash tacos combine the best elements of burgers and tacos, creating a fun and tasty fusion.
Quick and Easy to Prepare: These tacos are relatively quick to make, making them a great choice for busy weeknights.
Customizable Toppings: Just like traditional tacos or burgers, you can customize your smash tacos with a variety of toppings, sauces, and cheeses.
Crispy and Juicy: The smash cooking technique creates a crispy crust on the beef while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings or game nights, smash tacos are easy to serve and enjoy with friends and family.

Essential Ingredients for Smash Tacos

To make the best smash tacos at home, you need fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Tortillas

The tortilla serves as the “bun” for smash tacos:

Small Flour Tortillas: Flour tortillas are ideal for smash tacos because they are soft and pliable, making them perfect for wrapping around the crispy patty and toppings. If you prefer a gluten-free option, corn tortillas also work.

2. Ground Beef

The foundation of any great smash taco is the beef patty:

80/20 Ground Beef: For juicy, flavorful patties, an 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is perfect. The higher fat content ensures the beef remains juicy while achieving a crispy outer layer when smashed.

3. Cheese

No smash taco is complete without melted cheese:

American Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture, making it the classic choice for smash tacos. Other good options include cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese.

4. Toppings

Classic burger toppings work wonderfully in smash tacos:

Shredded Lettuce: Adds freshness and crunch.
Diced Tomatoes: Provides a juicy, tangy element that balances the richness.
Pickles: Offers a tangy, crispy bite that cuts through the flavors of the beef.
Diced Onions: Raw or grilled onions add a layer of flavor, from sharp and crisp to sweet and caramelized.
Burger Sauce or Mayo: A simple mix of ketchup, mayo, and relish works well as a burger sauce, or just plain mayo adds creaminess.

5. Seasonings

Keep the seasoning simple to highlight the beef’s natural flavor:

Salt and Pepper: The basics for seasoning the beef. These help bring out the meat’s flavor without overpowering it.
Garlic Powder: Optional, but it adds a savory depth to the patties.

How to Make Smash Tacos at Home

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making smash tacos:

Ingredients Needed

1 lb 80/20 ground beef
8 small flour tortillas
8 slices of American cheese (or your choice)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup diced onions
Pickle slices (as desired)
1/2 cup burger sauce or mayo
Salt, pepper, and garlic powder (optional)
Olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions for Cooking Smash Tacos

Prepare the Beef Patties: Start by dividing the ground beef into 8 equal portions and loosely rolling them into balls. Keeping them loose allows for better smashing and crust formation.
Heat the Griddle or Skillet: Preheat a griddle or large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Smash the Patties: Place a beef ball onto the hot griddle. Quickly use a heavy spatula or burger press to smash the ball flat until it’s slightly larger than a tortilla. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Cook and Flip: Allow the patty to cook for about 2 minutes without moving it. When juices start to bubble up and the edges become crispy, flip the patty. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top and cook for another minute until the cheese melts.
Warm the Tortillas: While the patties cook, warm the flour tortillas on another skillet or in the microwave until they’re soft and pliable.
Assemble the Tacos: Lay a cheese-topped patty on each tortilla. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Drizzle with burger sauce or mayo.
Serve Hot: Serve your smash tacos immediately, while they are hot and the cheese is melted. Enjoy with your favorite sides.

Delicious Variations for Smash Tacos

You can easily customize it to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to consider:

1. Spicy Jalapeño Smash Tacos

Add sliced jalapeños to the burger patty before adding the cheese for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle sriracha or hot sauce on top for extra heat.

2. BBQ Smash Tacos

Replace the burger sauce with BBQ sauce and add crispy fried onions for a sweet and smoky flavor. This variation brings a delightful crunch and sweetness.

3. Bacon Cheeseburger Tacos

Add crispy beef bacon strips to your tacos for an extra layer of flavor. The bacon pairs perfectly with melted cheese and pickles, providing a savory bite.

4. Mushroom Swiss Smash Tacos

Top each patty with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese instead of American cheese. This variation is great for those who love a more umami-packed flavor profile.

5. Double Smash Tacos

For a more substantial taco, double up the patties. Place two patties with melted cheese between them on each tortilla and pile on your favorite toppings.

Health Benefits of Smash Tacos

While The Tacos can be indulgent, they can also fit into a balanced diet:

High Protein Content: Ground beef and cheese provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Customizable Ingredients: You can control the fat content by choosing leaner beef or turkey. Whole wheat or low-carb tortillas can also be used to increase fiber and reduce carbohydrates.
Fresh Vegetables: Toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the meal.
Portion Control: Making them as tacos instead of full-sized burgers allows for better portion control, and you can add more vegetables to balance the meal.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Smash Tacos

Pair your smash tacos with these delicious side dishes for a complete meal:

French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Fries are always a classic pairing with burgers, and they work just as well with smash tacos. Sweet potato fries provide a healthier alternative.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the smash tacos.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Serve with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of chili powder for a Mexican street food vibe.
Loaded Nachos: Elevate your taco night with a side of loaded nachos topped with cheese, jalapeños, guacamole, and sour cream.

Tips for Making the Best Smash Tacos

Use the Right Beef: An 80/20 blend of ground beef ensures juicy patties with a nice crust. Leaner beef may dry out quickly.
Smash Quickly and Firmly: Smash the patties as soon as they hit the griddle for that crispy edge and juicy center.
Keep It Simple: Don’t overload with toppings; let the flavors of the beef and cheese shine through.
Serve Immediately: Smash tacos are best served hot off the griddle when the cheese is melted and gooey.

Where to Find Smash Tacos

If you want to try smash tacos without making them at home, check out:

Local Burger Joints: Some innovative burger joints have started serving burger-inspired tacos. Check their menus for special taco nights or fusion dishes.
Food Trucks: In many cities, food trucks have embraced the fusion trend, offering creative takes on classic dishes, including smash tacos.
Taco Restaurants: Some taco places with extensive menus may have a burger taco option or something similar.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smash Tacos

1. Are this Tacos Gluten-Free?

Yes, they can be gluten-free if you use corn tortillas instead of flour. Also, ensure that all the ingredients, including cheese and sauces, are gluten-free.

2. Can I Make Smash Tacos Ahead of Time?

It’s best to cook the patties fresh for the best flavor and texture. However, you can prepare all toppings and sauces in advance to streamline the process.

3. What Is the Best Cheese for Smash Tacos?

American cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess. However, cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack can add unique flavors.

4. Can I Make These with Chicken or Turkey?

Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version. Just remember that they may cook faster than beef.

Conclusion

They are an innovative and delicious way to enjoy two of the most beloved comfort foods. Whether you are a burger enthusiast or a taco lover, this fusion dish offers the best of both worlds. With endless customization options, you can make them to suit your taste or dietary preferences. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the griddle, and try making these mouth-watering tacos at home!

Smash Tacos: The Ultimate Fusion of Crispy Smash Burgers and Tacos