If you love burgers and tacos, this recipe is your dream come true.
Smash Burger Tacos are the best of both worlds—crispy-edged beef patties smashed right onto tortillas, topped with gooey cheese, tangy spread, and all the classic burger fixings.
Every bite is juicy, cheesy, and wrapped in a warm tortilla shell that gives major fast-food-meets-homemade vibes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Burger + Taco = Flavor Explosion – It’s like your favorite cheeseburger but handheld taco-style.
That smash crisp – Pressing the beef into the hot pan gives a perfect crust that locks in all the flavor.
No grill required – Everything is done on a stovetop. No need to fire up the barbecue.
Totally customizable – Add your favorite toppings or keep it classic.
Weeknight-friendly – 30 minutes from start to finish!
Ingredient Highlights
For the Spread
Mayonnaise, ketchup & sweet relish – The base of a tangy, creamy burger sauce.
Minced red onion & vinegar – Adds a pop of acidity and crunch.
Sugar – Just a touch for balance.
For the Assembly
Ground beef – Pressed thin on tortillas for that iconic smashburger texture.
Yellow mustard – Adds sharpness right on the patty before cooking.
Flour tortillas – Act as both the “bun” and the taco shell.
American cheese – Melts perfectly over hot beef.
Diced onions, pickles, tomatoes, lettuce – Classic burger toppings for full-on flavor.
Tips Before You Start
Use high heat – A hot skillet gives you that golden, crispy edge on the burger.
Smash fast and firm – Use a metal spatula to press the beef firmly onto the tortilla.
Don’t skip the mustard – It caramelizes on the hot pan and adds a burst of flavor.
Prep your toppings in advance – The cooking happens quickly, so have everything ready.
Use a cast-iron skillet – For the best sear and even heat.
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Step 1: Make the Spread
In a bowl, mix together mayo, ketchup, sweet relish, red onion, vinegar, and sugar.
Chill until ready to use.
Step 2: Assemble the Tacos
Press ground beef evenly onto each tortilla.
Spread a thin layer of mustard on the beef side.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Sear and Smash
Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat.
Place the taco, beef-side down, onto the hot pan and smash firmly with a spatula.
Cook until the beef is browned and crispy.
Step 4: Flip and Cheese
Flip the taco, warm the tortilla for a few seconds, and transfer to a plate.
Immediately top with a slice of cheese to melt.
Step 5: Sauté the Onions
In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook in the rendered beef fat until soft and caramelized.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Add a spoonful of the spread to each taco.
Top with sautéed onions, sliced pickles, tomato, and shredded lettuce. Serve hot!
What to Serve With Smash Burger Tacos
Crispy fries or tater tots
A crunchy slaw or side salad
Dill pickle chips
Iced cold cola or lemonade
Variations & Swaps
Cheese swap – Use cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone.
Go spicy – Add jalapeños or a squirt of sriracha to the spread.
Low-carb option – Try with lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
Veggie version – Use plant-based ground beef and dairy-free cheese.
Bun-style – Use slider buns instead of tortillas for a mini burger party.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Fridge: Store leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Toast in a skillet or air fryer to bring back that crispy edge.
Do not freeze: The tortillas and toppings won’t hold up well.
Make the spread ahead: It can be stored for up to 1 week in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I make these with corn tortillas?
Yes, but flour tortillas hold up better and get crispier.
What kind of beef is best?
Use 80/20 ground beef for juicy results and great browning.
Do I need a cast-iron pan?
It’s ideal, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
Can I prep these in advance?
You can make the spread and slice the toppings in advance.
Cook the tacos just before serving for best texture.
Is the mustard necessary?
Yes! It adds amazing flavor and helps caramelize the beef.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
What’s the best way to smash the beef?
Use a flat metal spatula and press firmly right after placing the taco in the pan.
Final Thoughts
Smash Burger Tacos are the ultimate comfort-food mashup.
They deliver everything you love about a classic cheeseburger—gooey cheese, beefy flavor, tangy sauce—but in a crispy tortilla shell.
They’re fast, satisfying, and endlessly fun to serve.
Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a spontaneous burger craving, this recipe hits the spot every single time.
