Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

If you love the juicy, crispy goodness of a classic smash burger and crave the fun portability of a taco, then you are going to fall head over heels for these Smash Burger Tacos. They combine the best of both worlds, delivering that satisfying, beefy flavor paired with melty cheese and crisp toppings all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. What really makes this dish unforgettable is the In-N-Out-inspired sauce that adds a creamy, tangy kick, pulling all the flavors together in the most delicious way imaginable. Whether you’re serving these at a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, Smash Burger Tacos are a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the juicy ground beef to the creamy, tangy sauce, and the fresh crunch of lettuce and pickles, every element shines on its own and harmonizes beautifully when brought together.

• 1 pound ground beef 80/20 fat: The perfect fat ratio ensures juicy, flavorful burger meat that crisps up wonderfully.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Simply seasons the beef to enhance its natural flavor.
• 10 cracks fresh black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and earthiness to the beef.
• 6 six-inch flour tortillas: Flour tortillas work best here because they are soft but sturdy and absorb those delicious meat juices.
• 6 slices muenster or provolone cheese: These cheeses melt beautifully, bringing a mild creaminess that complements the beef without overpowering it.
• Shredded lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch and bright green color.
• Chopped white onion: Provides a sharp, slightly sweet bite to contrast the savory elements.
• Dill pickle chips: Offers tangy crunch that cuts through the richness.
• In-N-Out Style Sauce: Made from ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon pickle relish, 1 teaspoon white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon finely grated onion; this creamy sauce is the star condiment that ties everything together with a tangy, slightly sweet finish.

How to Make Smash Burger Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, white vinegar, and grated onion until smooth and creamy. This sauce needs at least 15 minutes to chill in the fridge so the flavors meld beautifully while you move on to cooking the burgers.

Step 2: Season the Ground Beef

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with kosher salt and fresh black pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which keeps your burgers tender and juicy. The seasoning is simple but essential for that perfectly balanced Smash Burger Taco flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Divide the beef into equal portions and place them onto the hot surface. Use a spatula to smash each patty firmly until it’s thin—this maximizes delicious crispy edges. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, then flip.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Immediately after flipping the patties, place a slice of muenster or provolone cheese on each one so it melts perfectly over the meat. Cook for another 2 minutes until the cheese is gooey and the patties are cooked through.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While the patties finish cooking, soften your six-inch flour tortillas on a separate warm skillet or directly over a gas flame for a few seconds to make them pliable and warm—perfect for holding all the tasty fillings.

Step 6: Assemble the Smash Burger Tacos

Spread a generous layer of the chilled In-N-Out style sauce on each tortilla. Add a cheesy burger patty, top with shredded lettuce, chopped onion, and a few dill pickle chips. Fold carefully and get ready to enjoy that beautiful mash-up of smashing flavors.

How to Serve Smash Burger Tacos

Garnishes

To elevate your Smash Burger Tacos even more, sprinkle a little extra fresh chopped cilantro or a dash of smoked paprika on top. These subtle touches add brightness and a hint of spice, bringing a fresh new dimension to this already delicious dish.

Side Dishes

Serve these tacos with classic sides like crispy French fries, sweet potato wedges, or even onion rings for a hearty meal. A simple coleslaw or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad is also perfect if you want a refreshing, crunchy balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Smash Burger Tacos in mini taco holders to keep everything neatly in place or create a build-your-own taco bar with extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, shredded cheese, or diced avocado so everyone can customize their tacos just the way they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Smash Burger Tacos can be stored separately in airtight containers or wrapped tightly. Keep the cooked patties, tortillas, and toppings separate for the best texture when reheating.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the patties, place them on a parchment-lined tray first to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Just keep in mind that tortillas and fresh toppings don’t freeze well, so prepare those fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat the burger patties in a skillet over medium heat to bring back their crispy edges and juicy interior. Warm tortillas gently in a pan or microwave. Assemble tacos fresh with cold toppings and sauce for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use beef with a different fat percentage?

While you can, ground beef with about 20% fat is ideal because it ensures juicy, flavorful patties that crisp up nicely. Leaner beef may result in drier tacos.

What cheese works best for Smash Burger Tacos?

Muenster and provolone are great choices because they melt smoothly and have a mild, creamy flavor that complements the beef. You could also try cheddar or American cheese for a different twist.

Can I make the In-N-Out sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce actually tastes better if made a few hours before, allowing the flavors to meld. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to use.

Are flour tortillas necessary?

Flour tortillas are preferred because they are soft, flexible, and absorb the meat juices well. Corn tortillas can be used in a pinch, but they may be more fragile and less able to hold all the fillings.

Can I add other toppings to these tacos?

Definitely! These Smash Burger Tacos are very versatile. Try adding sliced jalapeños, avocado, pickled red onions, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor and heat.

Final Thoughts

Smash Burger Tacos are a delightful and satisfying way to enjoy two comfort food favorites all at once. The juicy, crispy patties combined with melty cheese and that luscious In-N-Out style sauce create a flavor explosion you’re going to want again and again. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become your go-to for casual dinners, parties, or anytime you need a little extra yum in your life. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!