Smash Burger Tacos are the internet’s newest obsession, combining all the mouthwatering juiciness of a classic smash burger with the handheld fun and convenience of a taco. Whether you’re looking to recreate the viral Smash Burger Tacos TikTok trend or hoping for a twist on weeknight favorites, this guide brings you the ultimate Smash Burger Tacos recipe—plus insider tips, answers to trending questions, and real-life secrets for the crispiest, most flavorful results.
On our journey to create the most irresistible Smash Burger Tacos, we drew inspiration from top creators and experts, scouring best practices from recipes like the Real Simple version and Delish’s take, and tapping into the passionate community that’s made Smash Burger Tacos Blackstone style a cookout staple. Here at DeliceFlash, our team’s mission is to simplify mouthwatering recipes and bring creative, crowd-pleasing meals into your kitchen. Discover more about who we are, our cooking philosophy, and our latest food adventures on our About page.
Get ready to master everything from ingredient selection to smashing techniques, serving suggestions, and keeping those tacos warm for your guests. We’ll even show you how to prep ahead for easy entertaining. Along the way, we’ll naturally answer the hottest “People Also Search For” queries:
Before we dig in, learn more about simple, gluten-free taco ideas at Officially Gluten-Free and discover how you can elevate your taco night with even more creative fillings at Heartbeet Kitchen.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Smash Burger Tacos Recipe Breakdown and History
What Are Smash Burger Tacos?
Tacos are a genius mashup—thin, ultra-crispy smashed beef patties, seared directly onto flour tortillas, then loaded with cheese, pickles, crisp lettuce, and a tangy burger sauce. Unlike standard tacos or burgers, the beef is pressed right onto the tortilla and griddled until both sides are deeply caramelized and irresistible.
The Viral Rise: From Smash Burger Tacos TikTok to BBQ Favorite
This dish shot to fame through viral TikTok videos and quickly landed on the must-try lists of foodies everywhere, from backyard BBQs to family dinner tables. “Smash burger tacos recette” is now trending worldwide—fans are adapting it for everything from French-style burgers (“Smash burger Tacos français”) to smoky, Blackstone grill versions (“Smash Burger Tacos Blackstone”). The combination of crispy edges, cheesy melt, and taco format makes this recipe a regular request for gatherings.
PrintBest Smash Burger Tacos: A Delicious Twist on Classic Burgers
Smash Burger Tacos combine the classic flavor of a smash burger with a crispy tortilla base, finished with cheese, burger sauce, and fresh toppings. These tacos are cooked on a ripping hot griddle for maximum caramelization and juicy, crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 smash burger tacos 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Griddle or Flat Top
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, 80/20 fat percentage
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 cracks fresh black pepper
- 6 (six-inch) flour tortillas
- 6 slices muenster or provolone cheese
- Shredded lettuce (for topping)
- Chopped white onion (for topping)
- Dill pickle chips (for topping)
- Burger Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 tablespoons minced bread & butter pickles
- 1 tablespoon pickle brine
- 10 cracks fresh black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Add all burger sauce ingredients to a bowl and whisk to combine. Refrigerate until ready to use; can be made 3 days in advance.
- Mix the salt and pepper in a bowl. Evenly distribute it over the top and bottom of the ground beef. Divide and roll beef into 2 1/2 ounce balls. Handle the meat gently. Place each ball on a plate and refrigerate until the griddle is preheated.
- Preheat a flat top or griddle on high heat, ungreased, until it is smoking hot.
- Place each beef ball on the hot surface and set a 6-inch tortilla on top. Use a smashing tool to press down very firmly on top of each tortilla, smashing the meat as thin as possible. Let cook for 1 minute, then press down on top of each tortilla again. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes.
- Use a stiff spatula to scrape underneath one of the burgers and check for a browned, crispy bottom. If not crisp, increase the heat as needed. Once browned and crisp, flip the smash burger taco so the tortilla side is on the griddle. Cook for another 2 minutes to crisp the tortilla.
- Top each with cheese. Allow cheese to melt as the tortillas crisp.
- Remove from griddle, top with burger sauce, lettuce, onion, and pickle chips. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use flour tortillas for best texture; they adhere well to the meat.
- Do not grease the griddle for maximum crispiness.
- The smash technique is key for caramelized edges and thin, crispy patties.
- Burger sauce can be made ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Ingredient Deep Dive: Getting the Most Flavor
The best Tacos recipe starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for authentic taste and texture:
- 1 pound ground beef, 80/20 fat ratio: This mix guarantees juiciness and flavor.
- Kosher salt & fresh black pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning.
- 6 flour tortillas: Flour is key—they soak up juices and crisp beautifully.
- 6 slices muenster or provolone cheese: Melts easily and brings creaminess.
- Classic toppings: Shredded lettuce, chopped white onion, dill pickle chips.
Burger Sauce Essentials
- Mayonnaise, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard, minced bread & butter pickles, pickle brine, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce: This blend gives you tang, zing, and that crave-worthy burger shop flavor.
Step-By-Step Smash Burger Tacos Recipe Guide
Preparing Your Burger Sauce
Start your Smash Burger Tacos recipe by mixing the sauce ingredients. Simply whisk together mayonnaise, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard, minced bread & butter pickles, pickle brine, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and refrigerate—this can be made up to three days ahead, making meal prep a breeze.
Seasoning and Shaping the Beef
Season your ground beef chunk or log with kosher salt and cracked black pepper. Divide the beef into 2 1/2 ounce balls. Remember: Minimal handling keeps the beef tender. Roll each portion gently and let them chill in the fridge while you prep your flat top or Blackstone grill.
Searing and Smashing: The Signature Technique
Fire up your grill or flat top to high heat (hotter than you think—this ensures a signature crispy edge). Without oil, place each beef ball onto the hot surface. Immediately top with a flour tortilla. Using a sturdy smashing tool, press each ball firmly so the beef spreads thin under the tortilla.
Let the patties cook for one minute, then press again to help release fat and crisp up those iconic edges. After 2–3 minutes, use a stiff spatula to check for browning and crispiness—don’t be afraid to use some force if the meat sticks a little.
Flipping and Melting
Once the beef is golden brown, flip so the tortilla side cooks against the hot surface. Top with cheese right away so it melts as the tortilla crisps up. In just a few more minutes, your Smash Burger Tacos are ready to assemble.
Pro Tip
For Smash Burger Tacos Blackstone style, be sure your grill is smoking hot—this guarantees that crave-worthy crust. For a TikTok-worthy finish, pile on toppings and a generous drizzle of burger sauce.
Check out creative taco fillings and more at Heartbeet Kitchen.
Cooking Techniques—Perfect Your Smash, Flip, and Crisp
Smashing Tips for Maximum Crust
Always smash the beef under the tortilla, not before.
How to Know When Smash Burgers Are Done
The beef should have a deep, golden-brown crust and cooked through in about 3–4 minutes per side (since the patties are very thin). If you’re unsure, use an instant-read thermometer—160°F means safe and juicy.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have a smaller surface, work in batches.
People Also Search For Integrated:
If you’re following “smash burger tacos recipe Delish” or “Real Simple,” these tips guarantee a perfect outcome, no matter your cooking setup.
Serving Suggestions—Presentation and Pairings
Classic Sides for Smash Burger Tacos
- Crinkle-cut fries or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw or spicy cabbage salad
- Corn on the cob or Mexican street corn
How to Keep Smash Tacos Warm
To keep a batch warm for serving, place finished tacos on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven, uncovered. This keeps the tortillas crisp while you finish the rest.
Can You Make Smash Tacos Ahead of Time?
You can prep all toppings, burger sauce, and shape beef balls up to 24 hours in advance. Cook just before serving for best texture. If you do need to reheat, use a hot skillet—microwaving will soften the tortilla.
People Also Search For Integrated:
Some recipes for “smash burger tacos Real Simple” recommend prepping toppings and sauce in advance—great for parties or meal prep.
Health and Nutrition—Lighten Up or Amp Up
Lighter Swaps for Guilt-Free Indulgence
- Use 93% lean ground beef or turkey
- Go easy on the cheese and use a yogurt-based sauce
- Add extra lettuce, tomatoes, or avocado for nutrition
Amp It Up: Make It Indulgent
- Double-stack the beef for a heartier taco
- Use smoked gouda or pepper jack for bolder flavor
- Top with crispy fried onions
Dietary Notes
Smash Burger Tacos can easily be made gluten-free (with GF tortillas), dairy-free (omit cheese, use vegan cheese), or low-carb (swap tortillas for lettuce wraps).
People Also Search For—Trending Variations and Inspirations
As you explore the “People Also Search For” trends, you’ll find creative variations popping up everywhere:
- Smash burger Tacos français: Add Dijon mustard and gruyere for a French spin.
- Smash burger tacos recette: Swap beef for chicken or lamb for a fresh twist.
- Smash burger tacos TikTok: Go bold with fiery sauces, hot honey, or extra cheese.
- Smash burger tacos bbq: Try smoky BBQ sauce and charred jalapeños.
- Smash burger tacos Real Simple: Streamline prep with pre-shredded lettuce and ready-made pickles.
- Smash burger tacos Delish: Amp up the indulgence with a second cheese layer or extra sauce.
Looking for inspiration? Try these ideas and make your own signature smash burger taco masterpiece.
Conclusion
Smash Burger Tacos bring together everything we love about burgers and tacos: juicy, crispy beef; gooey melted cheese; fresh toppings; and bold, tangy sauce—all in a handheld package. With this detailed smash burger tacos recipe, plus all the pro tips, trending variations, and make-ahead strategies, you’re ready to impress friends, family, or even just yourself at dinner tonight. Try the swaps, experiment with toppings, and keep the flavor party going!
Check out our quick weeknight meals for more tasty inspiration, or visit our About page for more stories and kitchen adventures.
Troubleshooting—FAQ and Top Tips
How to Avoid Soggy Tortillas
Always use flour tortillas—they absorb the meat’s juices and crisp up. If your tortillas aren’t crisping, raise the heat or let them cook a little longer after flipping.
My Burger Patties Stick to the Pan—Help!
Use a stiff, flat spatula to really scrape and lift the patties after the first side. A properly preheated pan prevents sticking and ensures that caramelized crust.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftover Smash Burger Tacos wrapped in foil in the fridge. To reheat, use a dry skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side. The tortilla will re-crisp, and the cheese will melt again.