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Crispy Smash Burger Tacos Recipe with Zesty Secret Sauce

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These crispy smash burger tacos combine the crunch of smashed beef patties with a tangy zesty secret sauce and soft taco shells for a quick, satisfying handheld meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 6-inch flour tortillas (corn tortillas for gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
  • 1 large tomato, diced
  • Zesty Secret Sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (120 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon pickle juice (5 ml)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Hot sauce (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (15 ml)

Instructions

  1. Make the Zesty Secret Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and hot sauce if using. Chill while preparing the rest.
  2. Prep the Veggies: Thinly slice the yellow onion, shred the lettuce, and dice the tomato. Set aside.
  3. Form the Beef Balls: Divide ground beef into 6 equal portions and gently roll into loose balls.
  4. Heat the Skillet: Place cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Heat for about 2 minutes until hot but not smoking.
  5. Smash and Cook Patties: Place 2-3 beef balls in skillet without crowding. Smash each ball to about ¼ inch thickness using a sturdy spatula or burger press. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes until edges are crisp and brown.
  6. Flip and Add Cheese: Flip patties and immediately sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through.
  7. Warm Tortillas: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds.
  8. Assemble the Tacos: Spread zesty secret sauce on each tortilla, add a crispy smash burger patty, then layer with sliced onions, lettuce, and diced tomatoes.
  9. Serve Immediately: Enjoy fresh while patties are crispy and hot. Optionally add lime or extra hot sauce.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking patties to maintain high heat and get a crispy crust. Cook in batches if needed and keep finished patties warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) wrapped in foil. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas and check condiments. For vegetarian option, substitute beef with smashed black bean patties or portobello mushrooms.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger tacos, crispy burger tacos, zesty secret sauce, quick tacos, easy dinner, comfort food, beef tacos

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/crispy-smash-burger-tacos-recipe-with-zesty-secret-sauce-easy-guide/