Get ready to elevate taco night with a creative twist on a classic smash burger. These Smash Burger Tacos combine the crispy, savory goodness of a smash burger with the fun, handheld charm of tacos. With a zesty Big Mac-inspired sauce, tender beef, and all the fresh toppings, these tacos offer the ultimate indulgence in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Smash Burger Tacos bring together two favorite comfort foods—smash burgers and tacos—into one delicious and easy-to-make dish. The homemade Big Mac-style sauce adds a creamy, tangy kick that perfectly complements the crispy, seasoned beef. The tortillas are pressed and cooked until golden and crunchy, creating a unique taco shell that holds all the flavors together. Finished with fresh lettuce, pickles, and onions, this fusion taco is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

Ingredients

For the Burger (Big Mac) Sauce:

1 cup mayonnaise
4 tbsp pickle relish
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp sugar
½ tbsp white vinegar
1¼ tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder

Taco Assembly:

4 × 6-inch flour tortillas
1 lb lean ground beef
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
4 slices American cheese (or cheese of your choice)
1 small onion, diced
Dill pickle chips
Shredded iceberg lettuce

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, sugar, white vinegar, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
Form the Taco “Burgers”:
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. On each tortilla, spread one portion of beef into a thin, even layer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Tacos:
Heat the neutral oil in a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place the beef-topped tortillas meat-side down and press with a spatula to thin them further. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until a crispy crust forms on the beef. Flip the tacos so the tortilla side cooks, and immediately lay a slice of cheese on the meat. Continue cooking for another 1-3 minutes, or until the tortilla crisps to your desired level.
Assemble & Serve:
Transfer the cooked tacos to a serving plate. Top each with shredded lettuce, diced onion, pickle chips, and a generous drizzle of the Big Mac-style sauce. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 tacos
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Cheese: You can use different cheese varieties such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Spicy Option: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based burger patty or crumbled veggie-based protein.
Taco Shell Options: If you want a different texture, try using corn tortillas instead of flour for a slightly firmer shell.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to regain some of the crispy texture. You can also microwave the tacos, but the tortillas will lose some of their crunch.

Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

FAQs

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options for a lighter or vegetarian meal.

How do I make the tortillas crispier?

To get an extra crispy tortilla, cook the tacos for a bit longer after the cheese has melted. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Can I make the Big Mac sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen.

Can I make the beef patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the beef patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This makes the cooking process faster when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Smash Burger Tacos?

For a classic pairing, serve with chips and salsa or Mexican street corn (elote). You could also add a side of Mexican rice, black bean salad, or even French fries.

Can I freeze the beef for future tacos?

While it’s not recommended to freeze the cooked tacos, you can freeze the seasoned ground beef before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and cook as directed when ready to use.

Can I use soft corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a different texture and flavor. They may not get as crispy as flour tortillas, but they will still be delicious.

What other sauces can I use for these tacos?

You can experiment with other sauces like a creamy sriracha mayo, ranch, or even a barbecue sauce if you’re looking for something different.

What if I don’t have a griddle or skillet?

If you don’t have a griddle or skillet, you can use a frying pan to cook the tacos. Just be sure to press the beef into a thin layer for the best crispy result.

Can I make these tacos in a larger batch?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve a larger group. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re making more than one batch at once.

Conclusion

Smash Burger Tacos are a deliciously fun fusion dish that combines the best elements of smash burgers and tacos. With crispy tortillas, seasoned beef, a tangy Big Mac-inspired sauce, and fresh toppings, these tacos offer a satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering, these Smash Burger Tacos are sure to become a new favorite!