What is a Smash Burger Taco exactly?

A Smash Burger Taco is a creative fusion of two beloved American classics — the smash burger and a taco. Instead of using a burger bun, the seasoned beef patty is smashed directly onto a flour tortilla , cooked until crispy, and topped with melted cheese, lettuce, pickles, and special sauce . It’s the perfect crispy, juicy, and handheld meal — made viral by the TikTok smash burger tacos trend .

What makes Smash Burger Tacos different from regular tacos?

Smash Burger Tacos use a unique technique where the ground beef is pressed directly onto the tortilla and seared on a hot skillet or griddle. This creates crispy edges on the meat and a perfectly toasted base—blending the best parts of a smash burger and a street taco.

Can I make Smash Burger Tacos without a cast iron skillet?

Yes! While a cast iron skillet delivers the best sear and heat retention, you can also use a flat non-stick griddle or heavy-bottomed pan. Just make sure it gets hot enough to crisp the beef.

What kind of cheese works best for these tacos?

American cheese melts beautifully and adds that classic burger flavor, but feel free to use cheddar, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for a little heat. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well.

Can I prep these ahead of time?

You can prep the smash sauce, toppings, and meatballs in advance. However, Smash Burger Tacos are best cooked and served fresh to maintain the crispy texture and melty cheese.

Are Smash Burger Tacos kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Their fun, handheld format and customizable toppings make them a big hit with kids. Skip spicy ingredients and let them add their favorite toppings for a family-friendly dinner win.

Can I freeze Smash Burger Tacos?

Freezing is not recommended once the tacos are assembled. However, you can freeze uncooked meatballs and store sauce separately to make a fresh batch anytime in under 20 minutes.

Is this recipe keto or low carb friendly?

Absolutely! Just use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas. Everything else — beef, cheese, pickles, and sauce — can be tailored to a low carb or keto-friendly lifestyle .

5 Reasons to Love This Smash Burger Tacos Recipe (Crispy, Juicy & Easy to Make)

Name: 5 Reasons to Love This Smash Burger Tacos Recipe (Crispy, Juicy & Easy to Make)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 8 small street taco flour tortillas; 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar (or American cheese slices); Shredded iceberg lettuce; Diced pickles or pickle chips; Sliced tomatoes; Finely chopped white onion; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 teaspoon sweet pickle relish; Pinch of paprika

Description

Smash Burger Tacos combine crispy beef, melty cheese, and tangy smash sauce on warm tortillas for the ultimate flavor-packed viral recipe.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
8 small street taco flour tortillas

Cheese Layer

1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar (or American cheese slices)

Toppings

Shredded iceberg lettuce
Diced pickles or pickle chips
Sliced tomatoes
Finely chopped white onion

Special Sauce (Best Smash Burger Taco Sauce)

¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon sweet pickle relish
Pinch of paprika

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Divide ground beef into 8 equal balls (2 oz each).
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat Your Griddle or Skillet
Preheat to medium-high until smoking hot.
Lightly oil the surface or use cooking spray.
Place one beef ball directly on a tortilla, then flip it meat-side down onto the hot surface.
Smash flat using a spatula or press.
Cook 2–3 minutes until a crust forms.
Flip the taco over (meat now on top), sprinkle with cheese, and cover to melt.
Let cheese bubble and get gooey (1–2 minutes).
Remove from griddle.
Top with lettuce, pickles, tomato, onion, and that signature smash taco sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop / Griddle
Cuisine: American