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Crispy Smash Burger Tacos Recipe Easy Homemade Tacos with Secret Sauce

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These crispy smash burger tacos combine caramelized, crispy burger edges with a creamy, tangy secret sauce for a quick, satisfying meal perfect for casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend recommended
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp finely chopped pickles or pickle relish (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce or cabbage
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced onions, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Secret Sauce: In a small bowl, mix ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and finely chopped pickles if using. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate while you cook the burgers.
  2. Heat Your Pan: Place your cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add a light coating of vegetable oil and let it get hot but not smoking.
  3. Form and Smash the Patties: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal balls, about 2 ounces each. Place two balls in the hot pan, then immediately use your spatula to press each ball down firmly into a thin patty, roughly ¼-inch thick. Hold the spatula steady for about 10 seconds.
  4. Season and Cook: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the patties. Cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes until edges are deeply browned and crispy. Flip carefully and add shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through.
  5. Warm the Tortillas: While the burgers cook, warm tortillas in a separate dry skillet over medium heat, about 30 seconds per side, until pliable and slightly toasted. Keep them covered with a clean towel to stay warm.
  6. Assemble the Tacos: Spread a generous spoonful of secret sauce on each tortilla. Add a crispy burger patty, then top with shredded lettuce or cabbage, diced tomatoes, and any optional toppings like jalapeños or onions. Finish with a drizzle more of secret sauce if desired.
  7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy fresh for maximum crunch and juiciness.

Notes

Do not overwork the meat to keep patties tender. Use high heat but watch carefully to avoid burning. Smash patties thin for crispy edges. Make secret sauce ahead and refrigerate to meld flavors. Drain excess grease with paper towels to avoid soggy tacos. Warm tortillas and keep covered to stay soft.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, tacos, crispy burger tacos, secret sauce, easy tacos, homemade tacos, quick dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/crispy-smash-burger-tacos-recipe-easy-homemade-tacos-with-secret-sauce/