Smash Burger Tacos – Crispy Patties Meet Cheesy, Toasted Tortillas
Smash Burger Tacos are the viral mashup you didn’t know you needed—crispy-edged burger patties smashed directly onto tortillas, then flipped to melt cheese and lock in all the juicy, beefy goodness. Topped with your favorite burger fixings and drizzled with special sauce, these taco-style burgers are quick, fun, and packed with flavor. A handheld twist that’s perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re craving burgers with a twist.
🛒 Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
6 small flour tortillas (street taco size works best)
6 slices cheddar or American cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Shredded lettuce, diced pickles, chopped onions, sliced tomatoes (optional toppings)
Special Sauce
¼ cup mayo
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon mustard
1 tablespoon relish
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Dash of hot sauce (optional)
🔄 Substitutions
Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based beef
Cheese: Try pepper jack, Swiss, or a dairy-free cheese
Tortillas: Use corn tortillas or low-carb versions
Sauce: Swap with ranch, chipotle mayo, or your favorite burger sauce
Toppings: Add avocado, grilled onions, or jalapeños for variety
👨🍳 How to
In a hot skillet or griddle, place a ball of seasoned ground beef (about 2 oz) directly onto the center of each tortilla
Use a spatula or burger press to smash the beef thin across the tortilla, pressing firmly to create a flat patty
Cook for 3–4 minutes until the edges are crispy and brown
Flip the tortilla so the beef side is up, and immediately add a slice of cheese
Cover with a lid (optional) to help the cheese melt, and cook for 1–2 more minutes
Remove from skillet and let rest briefly
Top each smash burger taco with shredded lettuce, pickles, onion, and a drizzle of special sauce
Fold gently and serve hot
🧀 Mix-ins
Crumbled bacon for extra indulgence
Sautéed mushrooms for umami richness
Pickled jalapeños for heat
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch
A fried egg for brunch-style tacos
✅ Recipe Tips
Use a hot pan for a proper sear and crispy edges
Press the meat thin to create that signature smash crust
Warm the tortillas before cooking for flexibility
Make the special sauce ahead for easier assembly
📦 Storage
Best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness
Store leftover tacos in the fridge for up to 2 days (reheat in a skillet to crisp back up)
Special sauce can be refrigerated for up to 1 week
Not ideal for freezing after cooking, but raw beef portions can be frozen ahead
🌀 Recipe Variations
Double-decker: Add a second smashed patty for extra meaty tacos
Tex-Mex: Top with pico de gallo and chipotle ranch
Low-carb: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas
BBQ-style: Add barbecue sauce, cheddar, and crispy onions
❓ FAQs
What makes smash burger tacos different? The burger is cooked directly onto the tortilla, creating crispy edges and a unique handheld twist
Can I make these on a griddle? Yes—flat-top griddles work perfectly for cooking multiple at once
What size tortilla is best? Street taco-size (5–6 inches) gives the best balance of meat and toppings
Do I need to flip them? Yes—flipping helps melt the cheese and warm the tortilla evenly
These Smash Burger Tacos are juicy, cheesy, and wildly craveable—perfect for parties, taco night, or anytime you want a burger in taco form.
