Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
Introduction
These smash burger tacos combine the best of two beloved dishes: juicy, flavorful burger patties pressed thin and cooked directly on soft mini tortillas. They’re quick to make and perfect for a fun, casual meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 500g beef mince (about 5% fat)
- 1 shallot or ½ small red onion, finely diced
- ½ tsp mixed dried herbs
- 8 mini tortillas
- Vegetable or sunflower oil, for frying
- 8 slices burger cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Your choice of gherkins, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, or other favourite burger toppings
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine the beef mince, diced shallot or onion, and mixed dried herbs. Mix well by scrunching the ingredients together with your hands until evenly incorporated. Divide the mixture into eight equal-sized balls.
- Step 2: Place one meatball onto each mini tortilla. Press down firmly to create thin burger patties that cover most of the tortilla, leaving about a 3cm border around the edges.
- Step 3: Heat a drizzle of vegetable or sunflower oil in one or two large frying pans over medium heat. Carefully place the tortillas, meat-side down, into the pan. Cook for 6–8 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even contact and cooking. Lift the tortilla occasionally to check if the meat is cooked through.
- Step 4: Once the meat is cooked, flip the tortillas over. Top each with a slice of cheese and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Step 5: Remove from the pan and serve the smash burger tacos with your favourite toppings such as gherkins, shredded lettuce, and tomato slices.
Tips & Variations
- Use a sturdy spatula to press the patties down while cooking for a crispy edge and better contact with the pan.
- Swap beef for turkey or plant-based mince for a different twist.
- Add a dab of mustard or a splash of barbecue sauce inside the tacos for extra flavor.
- Warm tortillas slightly before assembling for the best texture and flexibility.
Storage
These smash burger tacos are best eaten fresh. If you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the crisp edges and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular-sized tortillas instead of mini tortillas?
Yes, you can use regular-sized tortillas, but be aware that the patties will need to be slightly larger and the cooking time may increase slightly to ensure the meat cooks through.
What can I do to prevent the tortillas from burning while frying?
Keep the heat at medium and add just enough oil for a light fry. Press the patties gently and watch the cooking closely, flipping when the meat side is done. Using a non-stick pan also helps reduce burning.
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Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 smash burger tacos 1x
Description
These smash burger tacos combine juicy, thinly pressed beef patties with melty cheese and fresh taco fixings, all layered on mini tortillas. A quick and fun twist on traditional burgers, perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal that comes together easily on the stovetop.
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties
- 500g beef mince (about 5% fat)
- 1 shallot or ½ small red onion, finely diced
- ½ tsp mixed dried herbs
For the Tacos
- 8 mini tortillas
- Vegetable or sunflower oil, for frying
- 8 slices burger cheese, cheddar or monterey jack
- Your choice of gherkins, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, or your other favourite burger toppings
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: Combine the beef mince, finely diced shallots or red onion, and mixed dried herbs in a bowl. Mix thoroughly by scrunching the ingredients together with your hands to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Divide and Form Patties: Divide the meat mixture into eight equal balls. Place one ball onto each mini tortilla, then press it down firmly to create thin burger patties that cover most of the tortilla, leaving about a 3cm border around the edges.
- Cook the Burger Tacos: Heat a drizzle of vegetable or sunflower oil in one or two large frying pans over medium heat. Place the tortillas meat-side down in the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, pressing down with a spatula to create that characteristic ‘smash’ texture and ensuring the meat cooks evenly. Check doneness by lifting the tortilla to see if the meat is cooked through.
- Add Cheese and Finish Cooking: Once the meat is fully cooked, flip each taco over, place a slice of your chosen burger cheese on top, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Serve: Remove the smash burger tacos from the pan and assemble with your favourite toppings such as gherkins, shredded lettuce, and tomato slices. Enjoy while warm!
Notes
- Use lean beef mince (around 5% fat) for flavorful but not overly greasy patties.
- If mini tortillas are not available, small regular tortillas can be used as an alternative.
- Pressing the patties thin ensures quick cooking and a crispy texture.
- Cooking in batches may be necessary depending on the number of frying pans available.
- Customize toppings based on preference – avocado, pickles, or spicy mayo would complement well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: smash burger tacos, beef tacos, quick tacos, mini burgers, frying, easy taco recipe, burger cheese tacos
