Smash burger meets taco night—what could be better?
These Smash Burger Tacos bring the best of both worlds together with melty cheese, golden tortillas, and your favorite toppings.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or whenever you’re craving something bold, fast, and totally satisfying.
Why I Love These Smash Burger Tacos
They’re a fun twist on two classics—tacos and burgers—in one handheld bite.
You get a crispy tortilla, juicy smashed beef, and gooey melted cheese in every bite.
You can add whatever toppings or sauce you like, from pickles to lettuce to Big Mac sauce.
They’re fast, easy to cook on a griddle or pan, and family-approved every time!
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef – Choose 80/20 for the juiciest results. It crisps beautifully while staying tender inside.
Taco-size flour tortillas – These make the perfect base and crisp up on the griddle like magic.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts quickly and adds that burger flavor we all love.
Seasonings – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even a burger seasoning blend.
Burger Sauce (optional) – Mix mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish for a tangy, creamy kick.
Classic toppings – Lettuce, tomatoes, pickles—go wild!
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t skip smashing the beef thin—it helps it cook evenly and get those crispy edges.
Preheat your griddle or skillet well so the beef caramelizes nicely.
Tortillas can burn quickly, so keep the heat medium-high and watch them closely.
If using a Blackstone griddle, spread oil evenly to prevent sticking and get that sear.
This recipe is super customizable—add bacon, jalapeños, or even grilled onions!
How to Make Smash Burger Tacos
Step 1: Mix the Sauce (Optional)
In a small bowl, stir together: cup mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish
Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Prep the Cooking Surface
Heat a Blackstone griddle, cast iron skillet, or nonstick pan over medium-high heat.
Grease lightly with oil—use about 2 tablespoons if using a flat-top griddle.
Adjust oil depending on your beef’s fat content and your pan type.
Step 3: Smash the Beef on Tortillas
Divide 1 pound ground beef into 6 equal portions.
Take each taco-sized flour tortilla and press one beef portion onto it, spreading into a thin, even layer that covers the tortilla’s entire surface.
Sprinkle with your seasoning of choice—classic salt and pepper, or a burger spice blend.
Step 4: Cook the Beef Side Down
Place each tortilla beef-side down onto the hot griddle.
Let cook for 2 minutes, pressing slightly with a spatula to get even browning.
Step 5: Flip and Add Cheese
Carefully flip the tortillas over.Immediately top the cooked beef with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cook for another 1–3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden and crispy.
Be careful—the tortilla can burn fast if your pan is too hot!
Step 6: Top and Fold
Remove from the heat. Add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or pickles.
Drizzle with burger sauce or your favorite condiments. Fold like a taco and enjoy right away!
What to Serve It With
These tacos are great on their own, but here are some fun ideas for pairing:
Crispy French fries or sweet potato wedges
Pickle chips or onion rings
Coleslaw or corn salad
A cold soda, beer, or milkshake for the full diner effect
Variations / Substitutions
Cheese swaps – Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or American cheese for a different flavor.
Tortilla options – Try low-carb or whole wheat tortillas if you prefer.
Meat options – Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Toppings galore – Sautéed onions, avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a fried egg!
Storage & Leftovers
Smash Burger Tacos are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but if you do have leftovers:
Store cooled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat on a skillet over medium heat to re-crisp the tortilla and warm the beef.
Avoid microwaving if possible—it softens the crispy tortilla.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the smashed beef tortillas and sauce in advance, but cook them fresh for best texture.
What’s the best beef to use?
80/20 ground beef gives the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness for these tacos.
Can I make these without a griddle?
Yes! A large cast iron or nonstick skillet works great. Just don’t overcrowd the pan.
What’s a good cheese alternative?
Monterey Jack or mozzarella works well—just make sure it melts quickly.
Can I use corn tortillas?
They’re not ideal for this method—they tear easily and don’t crisp the same way as flour tortillas.
Can I add bacon?
Absolutely! Crumbled crispy bacon makes these even more decadent.
Is the burger sauce necessary?
Not at all, but it adds a creamy, tangy touch that brings everything together.
Final Thoughts
These Smash Burger Tacos are the ultimate mash-up of fast food favorites—juicy, cheesy, and wildly satisfying.
They’re perfect for feeding a crowd or just spicing up your regular dinner routine.
With endless topping options and a quick cook time, this is one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to.
Whether you’re serving them up for game day or Tuesday night, expect clean plates and happy faces.

Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the sauce by mixing mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish. Set aside.
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high and lightly grease with oil.
- Divide ground beef into 6 balls and press each onto a tortilla, spreading evenly. Season.
- Cook beef-side down for 2 minutes, until browned.
- Flip and top with cheese.
- Cook 1–3 minutes until cheese melts and tortillas are crisp.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/smash-burger-tacos-3/
Notes
- For extra-crispy tacos, press them gently with a spatula while cooking.
- Use ground turkey or plant-based meat as a substitute.
- Want heat? Add jalapeños or spicy mayo.