Smash tacos are a take on traditional tacos but with crispy smashed beef patties, gooey cheese, and fresh toppings, all tucked into a warm tortilla. This smash tacos recipe transports the street food experience into your kitchen, where juicy, well-seasoned meat meets the uncontested appeal of a plate’s worth of crispy edges. A great option for a quick dinner, game day snack, or taco night, these tacos are incredibly versatile. They can be customized with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, or spicy mayo. With their vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, smash tacos are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Table of Contents
Origins of Smash Tacos Recipe
The Smash Tacos recipe draws on the familiar American smash burger, with its thin, crispy-edged patties, and teams it up with the classic format of the taco of Mexico. The beef patty is smashed right onto a hot griddle, which caramelizes the meat and seals in fines, creating a rich crust. This tasty variation of a favorite dish has taken the world by storm, combining textures and flavors in ways that will rock your taste buds.
Keys for a Perfect Smash Tacos Recipe
- Flavorful Toppings: Use fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, guacamole, and a drizzle of spicy mayo to elevate the dish.
- Quality Meat: Choose 80/20 ground beef for a juicy patty with just the right amount of fat for caramelization.
- Hot Cooking Surface: A cast-iron skillet or griddle ensures the meat cooks evenly and develops those signature crispy edges.
- Fresh Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas are essential for holding all the delicious fillings together without breaking.
- Cheese Placement: Melting cheese directly on the smashed patty enhances the flavor and texture.
Why Homemade Smash Tacos Are a Great Idea
Smash tacos at home give you total control over the goods and customization. They can be filled with whatever meats, cheeses, and toppings your taste desires. Additionally, making tacos at home is typically healthier and more economical than dining out, making this choice an excellent idea for family dinners or gatherings. And the act of smashing the patties brings an element of fun and interactivity into your cooking.
Health Benefits of Smash Tacos
While smash tacos are indulgent, they can be made healthier with thoughtful ingredient choices. Here’s a quick comparison table of common ingredients and their nutritional values:
| Ingredient | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef (80/20, 4 oz) | 285 kcal | 22 g | 22 g | 0 g |
| Flour Tortilla (1) | 150 kcal | 4 g | 4 g | 24 g |
| Corn Tortilla (1) | 60 kcal | 1 g | 1 g | 12 g |
| Lettuce, Tomato, Salsa | 20 kcal | 1 g | 0 g | 5 g |
Opting for leaner ground meat, whole-grain tortillas, or loading up on fresh vegetables can significantly reduce calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.
Homemade Smash Tacos recipe From OoohDelish!
Smash Tacos Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula for smashing
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- For the Smash Tacos:
- 1 lb 450 g ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack
- For Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Pickled jalapeños
- Sour cream or taco sauce
- Guacamole optional
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
Season the Ground Beef:
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Fold gently until thoroughly incorporated.
Preheat the Skillet:
- Wipe a large skillet or griddle with oil and heat it over medium-high heat.
Cook and Smash:
- Put a tortilla on top of the skillet. Now, place a small ball of seasoned ground beef (approximately 2 oz) atop that mound.
- Use a spatula to mash and smash the beef thinly and spread it over the tortilla. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the meat begins to brown.
Flip and Add Cheese:
- Flip the tortilla and beef so the meat is on top now. Mulch on some shredded cheese and boil for one more 1-2 minutes till the cheese is melted.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Transfer the smashed taco out of the skillet. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve hot with a side of guacamole, salsa, or chips. Enjoy this fun taco twist!
Notes
Tortilla Choice: Corn tortillas are great for gluten-free options, while flour tortillas offer a soft and pliable base.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prep the seasoned beef mixture in advance to save time.
Smash Tacos Recipe and Weight Loss
When prepared mindfully, the Smash Tacos recipe can also be incorporated into a weight-loss plan. Try swapping fatty beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative, and use smaller tortillas or even lettuce wraps for low-carb versions. Toppings like fresh salsa, avocado slices and Greek yogurt in place of sour cream can also enhance the nutritional profile while maintaining flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Smash Tacos Recipe
- Preheat Your Pan: Like, really hot. Skip cold fat frying and make that hot at all — you need the skillet to be very hot before you add the beef to get crispy edges.
- Don’t Crowd: Cook in batches, so you don’t steam the patties instead of crisping them.
- Press Firmly: Use a strong spatula or a burger press to flatten the beef thinly and evenly.
- Toast the Tortillas: Toasting the tortillas quickly on the griddle is an important step in enhancing flavor and keeping the tortillas sturdy.
- Cut Through Fat: Pair rich red meat with crunchy, acidic toppings for a balanced taco.
FAQs : Smash Tacos Recipe
How to make smash burger tacos?
To make smash burger tacos, start by forming small balls of ground beef. Heat a griddle or skillet over high heat, place a beef ball on a warm tortilla, and press it down with a spatula to flatten. Cook until the edges are crispy and the beef is cooked through. Add cheese, flip to melt it, and top with your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sauce.
How long to cook smash tacos?
Smash tacos typically take about 2-3 minutes per side to cook. The high heat ensures the beef caramelizes quickly, creating crispy edges while keeping the center juicy. Ensure the meat is fully cooked before serving.
How to make Big Mac smash tacos?
To make Big Mac smash tacos, press ground beef onto tortillas as you would for smash tacos. Add shredded lettuce, diced onions, pickles, cheddar cheese, and a homemade or store-bought Big Mac sauce. Fold and serve for a delicious twist on the classic burger.
Share Your Twist!
We’d love to hear your version of the Smash Tacos Recipe ! What special ingredients or techniques do you use to make it uniquely yours? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious meals!
References
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