The Ultimate Smash Burger Tacos Experience!
Are you looking for a fun and exciting twist on your taco night? Look no further than smash burger tacos! Combining the irresistible flavors of a smash burger with the crunch and zest of tacos, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe offers a quick, easy, and utterly delicious way to serve up something special.
What makes smash burger tacos so great? Well, they come together in minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Imagine perfectly crispy taco shells stuffed with juicy, flavorful beef patties, topped with cheese, lettuce, and all your favorite fixings. You’ll be amazed at how these two beloved foods come together to create something completely new and exciting.
Compared to other taco varieties, smash burger tacos stand out with their bold, savory flavors and satisfying texture. They’re not only a hit with kids but are perfect for adults craving a delicious, filling meal. The best part? You can make them easily on your Blackstone griddle, which adds that irresistible crispy texture. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on making the best smash burger tacos on your Blackstone griddle!
What is a Smash Burger Taco?
So, what exactly are smash burger tacos? The name itself might have you scratching your head. After all, burgers and tacos aren’t often paired together, but this recipe does exactly that. It’s a hybrid that combines the juicy goodness of a smash burger with the handheld, crispy joy of tacos. Sounds irresistible, right?
The origins of the name come from the smash burger technique, where the patty is “smashed” onto a hot griddle, creating a caramelized, crispy crust. When you incorporate this burger-making method into taco shells, you get an unforgettable combination. The first time you try a smash burger taco, you’ll understand why it’s taken the taco world by storm.
Here’s a fun fact: the smash burger taco isn’t just about taste—it’s about texture too. Imagine the crispy taco shell, the crunch of a perfectly smashed patty, and the melt-in-your-mouth cheese. It’s a perfect blend of soft and crispy, savory and fresh. And who doesn’t love a burger in taco form? It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a little bit of magic to your dinner table.
Ready to try these delicious smash burger tacos yourself? Keep reading to learn how to make them on your Blackstone griddle!
Why You’ll Love Smash Burger Tacos
Smash burger tacos are a game-changer for a few key reasons. First off, they’re a fun twist on two of your favorite foods. But what makes them even more special?
✅ Balanced Taste: The juicy, flavorful burger patty contrasts beautifully with the crisp taco shell, while the toppings bring in freshness and zest. Each bite is a perfect harmony of savory, crunchy, and creamy.
✅ Budget-Friendly: Rather than spending a fortune on takeout or going to a restaurant, you can make these mouthwatering tacos right at home! With simple ingredients and an easy cooking method, it’s a cost-effective way to satisfy your taco cravings.
✅ Customizable & Easy: Smash burger tacos are incredibly versatile. You can adapt them to suit your tastes—add spicy jalapeños, swap out the cheese, or load them up with fresh veggies. The possibilities are endless!
These tacos also have a fun, family-friendly appeal. The hands-on experience of assembling tacos makes them a perfect meal for kids, while adults will appreciate the rich flavor and satisfying texture.
Looking for something else to try? You could compare smash burger tacos with classic smash burgers for a simpler meal, or get creative and add unique toppings to elevate the flavor profile. But once you try these tacos, you might not want to go back!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos on Your Blackstone Griddle
Quick Overview
Making smash burger tacos on your Blackstone griddle is simple, quick, and incredibly delicious. With minimal prep time, you can have these tacos ready in under 30 minutes. The result? Perfectly crispy taco shells filled with juicy, smashed burger patties and all the classic toppings.
Key Ingredients for Smash Burger Tacos:
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these smash burger tacos:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb (450g) | 80/20 ratio for juicy burgers |
| Taco Shells | 6-8 shells | Soft corn or flour shells work best |
| Cheese (cheddar) | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Lettuce | 1 cup | Shredded or chopped |
| Tomato | 1 medium | Diced |
| Onion | 1 small | Chopped |
| Pickles | 1/4 cup | Sliced (optional) |
| Taco Seasoning | 1 packet | Or homemade seasoning mix |
| Cooking Oil | 2 tbsp | For griddle |
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Add a little oil to coat the surface.
- Form the Patties: Take the ground beef and form it into small balls (about 2 oz each). You want these to be slightly larger than your taco shell to account for shrinkage.
- Smash the Patties: Place the beef balls on the griddle and use a spatula to smash them flat. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and brown.
- Toast the Taco Shells: While the patties cook, toast your taco shells on the griddle for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place each smashed burger patty in a taco shell. Add cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Top with your favorite sauces or condiments.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tacos immediately while they’re hot, juicy, and crispy. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Smash Burger Tacos
Smash burger tacos are perfect for pairing with various sides and drinks to round out your meal. Here are some ideas:
- East Side Dish: Crispy sweet potato fries make a great side dish. They add a sweet, crispy contrast to the savory tacos.
- Perfect Drink Pairing: A cold, refreshing iced tea or a light beer works wonderfully with the richness of the tacos.
- Extra Topping Ideas: Try adding avocado slices, jalapeños, or a spicy aioli to give the tacos a little extra flavor boost.
Top Tips for Perfecting Smash Burger Tacos
✔ Ingredient Swaps: Want a leaner option? Swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also try different cheeses or switch taco seasoning flavors for a new twist.
✔ Common Mistakes to Avoid: One mistake is overcooking the beef. You want it crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside, so don’t press down too hard when smashing the patties.
✔ Pro Tips for Texture & Flavor: To get the perfect crispy taco shell, don’t skip toasting it on the griddle. For added flavor, sprinkle a little taco seasoning on the inside of the shell before filling it with the patty.
Healthy Cooking Tips for Smash Burger Tacos
You can easily make smash burger tacos healthier with a few simple swaps:
- Lean Protein: Choose leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken.
- Whole Wheat Tacos: Opt for whole wheat taco shells for added fiber.
- Vegetable Toppings: Load up on veggies like spinach, kale, and bell peppers for added nutrients.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store and reheat any leftovers:
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 days | Microwave for 30 seconds or reheat in a skillet |
| Freezer | 2 months | Thaw overnight and reheat at 350°F for 5–10 mins |
Smash Burger Tacos on Your Blackstone Griddle
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 tsp 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp Black pepper
- ½ tsp Garlic powder
- ½ tsp Onion powder
- 8 small Flour tortillas
- 4 slices Cheddar or American cheese, halved
- ½ cup Diced onions
- ½ cup Shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup Sliced pickles
- ¼ cup Burger sauce (mayo, ketchup, mustard mix)
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting tortillas)
- 1 1 tbsp oil (for cooking beef)
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Add a little oil to coat the surface.
- Form the Patties: Take the ground beef and form it into small balls (about 2 oz each). You want these to be slightly larger than your taco shell to account for shrinkage.
- Smash the Patties: Place the beef balls on the griddle and use a spatula to smash them flat. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and brown.
- Toast the Taco Shells: While the patties cook, toast your taco shells on the griddle for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place each smashed burger patty in a taco shell. Add cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. Top with your favorite sauces or condiments.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tacos immediately while they’re hot, juicy, and crispy. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the tacos right before serving.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Replace the beef with turkey or chicken, and opt for whole wheat taco shells.
Can I use a different cooking method?
Definitely! You can make these tacos in a skillet or on a regular grill, but the Blackstone griddle gives the best crispy texture.
How long do I cook the patties?
Cook the patties for 2–3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Can I freeze the patties?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked patties for up to 2 months. Just reheat before serving.
Ready to make the best smash burger tacos on your Blackstone? Gather your ingredients, fire up the griddle, and enjoy a fun, flavorful meal your whole family will love!
