Introduction
Craving the perfect smash burger taco but unsure how long to cook smash burger tacos for that juicy, crispy flavor? You’re not alone. Smash burger tacos are gaining popularity, and for good reason—they blend the savory goodness of a smash burger with the handheld convenience of a taco. In this guide, we’ll take you through every step of preparing this delicious fusion dish, from understanding the cooking time to getting that perfect crispy exterior. If you are looking for more recipes and information regarding your cooking, you can check out Serious Eats.
For a full understanding of the process, we will break it down into simple steps so that both first-timers and seasoned cooks can master smash burger tacos. We’ll also talk about the cooking equipment, essential ingredients, and tips to make this the tastiest fusion food you’ve ever made. Before we dive in, check out this helpful guide on smash burger tacos to familiarize yourself with the general process.
Note: Smash burger tacos are relatively easy to make, but timing and temperature are everything if you want to create a dish that tastes professional and well-prepared.
What Makes Smash Burger Tacos So Special?
Before we go into how long to cook smash burger tacos, let’s talk about what makes them so special.
- Flavor Fusion: Smash burger tacos combine the flavor of a classic burger patty with the crispness of a taco shell. This fusion of textures and flavors is a real game-changer.
- Versatility: You can use various toppings, from shredded lettuce to tangy pickles, making them a versatile and personalized meal.
- Quick Cook Time: Despite their mouth-watering complexity, smash burger tacos cook quickly, making them ideal for weeknight dinners.
Let’s dive into the preparation and cooking time to understand how to achieve this delectable dish.
Cooking Equipment You Need for Smash Burger Tacos
Cooking smash burger tacos requires the right tools to achieve that signature crispiness and juiciness. Here are the essential pieces of equipment:
1. Griddle or Cast Iron Skillet
- A flat surface is essential for cooking smash burgers. A griddle or cast iron skillet is ideal since they hold heat evenly, allowing you to achieve the right sear in a short amount of time.
- Make sure your griddle or skillet is hot enough to ensure the burgers cook quickly and develop a crispy crust.
2. Spatula
- Use a heavy-duty spatula. A wide, sturdy spatula is necessary to smash the meat into a thin layer on the griddle.
3. Tongs
- Tongs are perfect for flipping tortillas, handling toppings, and ensuring the burgers don’t stick.
4. Parchment Paper
- This is a handy tool when pressing down the meat. It keeps the spatula clean and prevents the meat from sticking, which makes smashing easier.
Smash Burger Taco Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
To make smash burger tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef (80/20 blend): A mix with 80% lean and 20% fat works best. The extra fat makes the patties juicy and ensures they remain flavorful.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning is best for smash burger tacos.
- Small Corn Tortillas: The tortillas form the base for your tacos.
- Cheese: American cheese works wonderfully because it melts easily, but you can also use cheddar or a blend.
- Toppings: Consider toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, pickles, and onion slices for that classic smash burger flavor.
Optional Ingredients
- Sauces: You can use mayonnaise, mustard, or even a spicy chipotle mayo for added flavor.
- Avocado: This adds creaminess to balance the crisp burger.
- Bacon: For extra smoky flavor, add crispy bacon strips to your tacos.
How Long to Cook Smash Burger Tacos: The Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Preheat Your Griddle or Skillet
Before you begin cooking, preheat your griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. It is critical to ensure the surface is hot enough to sear the meat, giving you that nice crispy crust.
- Time Required: 5 minutes
- Tip: You can tell the skillet is hot enough if a droplet of water sizzles instantly when splashed on the surface.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
While the griddle is heating, warm the corn tortillas. This ensures they are pliable enough to hold the burger patty.
- Cooking Time: 30 seconds to 1 minute per side.
- Tip: Flip them with tongs and watch for light browning or soft bubbles that indicate they are ready.
Step 3: Form and Season the Burger Balls
Divide the ground beef into 2-ounce balls. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Tip: Keeping the balls small ensures they cook quickly and fit perfectly on the tortillas.
Step 4: Smash the Burger Balls
Place the seasoned beef balls onto the hot griddle. Use your heavy-duty spatula to press them down until they are thin—approximately the size of your tortillas.
- Smash Time: 10 seconds.
- Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes for the first side.
- Tip: Use parchment paper between the spatula and meat to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Flip and Add Cheese
Flip the burgers once the edges are brown and crispy. Place a slice of cheese on top of each patty immediately after flipping.
- Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes.
- Total Time for Smash Burger Patty: 4-5 minutes.
Step 6: Assemble the Smash Burger Tacos
Place the cooked patty directly onto a warmed tortilla. Add your favorite toppings, such as shredded lettuce, pickles, and onions. Drizzle with sauce of your choice.
- Tip: Work quickly while the cheese is still warm for easy assembly.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Serve your smash burger tacos right away to enjoy them at their freshest. The tortillas should be soft, while the burger should have a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Key Tips for Perfect Smash Burger Tacos
1. Use High Heat
- The secret to a great smash burger is cooking on high heat to develop that crispy, caramelized crust.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Griddle
- Overcrowding will lower the griddle temperature, resulting in soggy patties. Cook in batches if needed.
3. Smash Once, Don’t Press Again
- Smash the burger once at the beginning and then leave it alone. Pressing it multiple times will cause juices to escape, leading to a dry patty.
4. Use Fresh Tortillas
- Fresh corn tortillas give the best flavor and texture. They should be pliable but sturdy enough to hold the burger and toppings.
Common Variations of Smash Burger Tacos
1. Spicy Smash Burger Tacos
If you enjoy a bit of spice, add sliced jalapeños to your taco toppings or mix chipotle powder into the beef before cooking. Additionally, these spicy elements enhance the flavor profile of the tacos, adding a smoky and zesty kick. Furthermore, they’re easy to incorporate and can be adjusted to match your preferred level of heat.
2. Bacon Smash Burger Tacos
Add crispy bacon strips on top of the cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Bacon pairs perfectly with the smoky, crispy edges of the smash burger. Additionally, the salty, savory bacon complements the rich, melted cheese, enhancing the overall taste. Furthermore, this simple addition adds both texture and indulgence, making the tacos even more satisfying.
3. Guacamole Smash Burger Tacos
Replace traditional toppings with a generous spoonful of guacamole for a creamy, rich texture that contrasts with the crispy burger patty. Additionally, guacamole adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the savory elements of the dish. Furthermore, this topping provides healthy fats and a vibrant twist, elevating your smash burger tacos to a new level.
4. BBQ Smash Burger Tacos
For a smoky twist, brush a little BBQ sauce onto the patties after flipping them. Add fried onions as a topping for extra crunch. Additionally, the sweet and smoky flavor of the BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the savory burger, while the fried onions provide a satisfying texture. Furthermore, this combination adds depth and excitement to your smash burger tacos.
5. Veggie Smash Burger Tacos
For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with a black bean patty. Smash the black bean mixture on the griddle just like you would with beef. Add grilled bell peppers and onions for additional flavor. Why not pair it with our delicious vegan baked ziti for a complete meal?
Nutritional Benefits of Smash Burger Tacos
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 470mg |
Are Smash Burger Tacos Healthy?
Smash burger tacos, while indulgent, provide protein and healthy fats. To make them healthier, consider using whole-wheat tortillas and adding vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes. Opt for leaner beef or even a plant-based patty if desired.
In addition, you can reduce the saturated fat content by using a mix of ground turkey and beef or by using reduced-fat cheese. Adding a variety of vegetable toppings can also boost the fiber content and provide important vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, these simple adjustments allow you to enjoy the delicious flavors of smash burger tacos while aligning with your nutritional goals.
Perfect Side Dishes for Smash Burger Tacos
To round out your meal, consider pairing smash burger tacos with these delicious side dishes:
1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries and pair wonderfully with smash burger tacos. Bake them in the oven with a sprinkle of paprika and garlic powder for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a great side dish why not try our Pioneer Woman hashbrown breakfast casserole!
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Elote is a classic Mexican street food that involves grilling corn on the cob and then coating it with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder. The smoky and tangy flavors complement the richness of the smash burger tacos. Additionally, the charred corn and bold seasonings provide a delightful contrast to the savory tacos. Furthermore, serving elote adds a touch of authenticity and excitement to the meal.
3. Pico de Gallo
A fresh pico de gallo adds a burst of brightness and acidity to balance out the richness of the smash burger tacos. Use fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños to make this simple side. Additionally, the vibrant flavors and crunchy texture enhance the overall meal, making it more refreshing. Furthermore, pico de gallo is quick to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, adding versatility to your table..
4. Cucumber Avocado Salad
A light cucumber and avocado salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the heavy, savory flavors of smash burger tacos. Mix sliced cucumbers, avocado, red onion, and lime juice for a simple and tasty side dish. Additionally, the creamy avocado and crisp cucumber provide a perfect balance of textures. Furthermore, the zesty lime juice ties the flavors together, making this salad a delightful complement to the meal.
5. Chips and Salsa
Sometimes the classics are best. Tortilla chips with a variety of salsas—such as salsa verde, mango salsa, and roasted tomato salsa—can provide both texture and variety to your meal. Additionally, the combination of crunchy chips and flavorful dips adds a fun and interactive element to the dining experience. Furthermore, offering a range of salsas ensures there’s something to suit everyone’s taste, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal.
Perfect Beverages to Pair with Smash Burger Tacos
1. Classic Margarita
A classic margarita—made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec—pairs exceptionally well with the savory and rich flavors of smash burger tacos. The acidity cuts through the fattiness of the burger. If you are looking for a delicious desert to follow your tacos, you will not regret trying our pumpkin pie recipe. Additionally, the refreshing citrus notes complement the bold flavors of the tacos, creating a perfectly balanced combination. Furthermore, serving margaritas elevates the meal, making it feel both festive and indulgent.
2. Iced Horchata
Horchata is a traditional Mexican rice milk beverage flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. Its sweet, creamy flavor balances out the spices in the smash burger tacos. Additionally, the smooth, refreshing drink provides a delightful contrast to the savory and rich elements of the meal. Furthermore, serving horchata adds an authentic and comforting touch to your dining experience.
3. Sparkling Water with Lime
For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lime is a refreshing drink that cleanses the palate without adding extra sweetness. Additionally, its light and crisp flavor complements the rich and savory notes of smash burger tacos. Furthermore, it’s a simple yet elegant choice that pairs well with any meal.
4. Craft Beer
A light lager or pale ale can complement the smoky flavors of smash burger tacos without overpowering them. Additionally, the crisp and refreshing qualities of these beers balance the richness of the tacos, enhancing the overall dining experience. Furthermore, their subtle flavors allow the bold seasonings of the dish to shine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Long Does a Smash Burger Take to Cook?
A smash burger typically takes 4-5 minutes to cook. This includes 2-3 minutes on the first side and 1-2 minutes on the second side, after flipping and adding cheese. High heat is essential to achieve a crispy exterior. Additionally, cooking quickly at high heat helps seal in the juices while creating a flavorful crust. Furthermore, adding cheese during the final minute allows it to melt perfectly over the patty.
How Do You Know When a Smash Burger is Cooked?
The edges should be brown and crispy, and the meat should no longer be pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Additionally, using a meat thermometer ensures accuracy and prevents undercooking. Furthermore, achieving this temperature guarantees a juicy, flavorful burger that is safe to eat..
How Do You Know When to Flip a Smashburger?
Flip the smash burger when you see browned, crispy edges and the meat starts releasing fat onto the cooking surface. Usually, this happens around the 2-3 minute mark. Additionally, flipping at the right time ensures a well-seared crust while keeping the patty juicy. Furthermore, this technique helps achieve the perfect texture and flavor for your burger.
How Long to Cook Corn Tortillas for Tacos?
Cook corn tortillas for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side. Look for light brown spots or small bubbles as an indicator that they are ready. Additionally, cooking them properly enhances their flavor and ensures they are pliable for filling. Furthermore, warm tortillas provide a better texture and taste, making them the perfect base for your tacos.
Can I Make Smash Burger Tacos Ahead of Time?
Smash burger tacos are best served fresh, but you can prepare the burger balls and toppings ahead of time. Cook the patties and assemble them just before serving to ensure they remain crispy and juicy. Additionally, prepping the components in advance saves time and makes the cooking process more efficient. Furthermore, serving freshly cooked patties ensures the tacos have the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
What Type of Cheese Works Best for Smash Burger Tacos?
American cheese is the most popular choice because it melts quickly and smoothly. However, you can use other types of cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile. Additionally, experimenting with different cheeses allows you to customize the burger to suit your taste preferences. Furthermore, options like blue cheese or smoked gouda can add a gourmet touch to your creation.
How Do I Prevent the Meat from Sticking to the Spatula?
To prevent the meat from sticking to the spatula, use parchment paper between the spatula and the beef when you smash the burger. This also helps to distribute the pressure evenly, ensuring a perfect sear. It’s essential to have a good sear but if you are looking for something sweet why not try our earl grey cookies. Additionally, knowing how long to cook smash burger tacos is crucial to achieving the ideal texture and flavor. The parchment paper makes cleanup easier and keeps the burger’s surface smooth and intact. Furthermore, this simple trick enhances the cooking process, resulting in a perfectly cooked and well-seared patty.
Conclusion
Smash burger tacos are the perfect fusion of two beloved foods, delivering the best of both worlds with their crispy edges, juicy patties, and flavorful toppings. With a simple yet precise cooking process, including knowing how long to cook smash burger tacos, you can easily master this crowd-pleasing dish in your own kitchen. By following the steps outlined in this guide—using the right equipment, high heat, and fresh ingredients, and ensuring the proper cooking time for smash burger tacos—you can create smash burger tacos that are every bit as delicious as they look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings, side dishes, and even variations like spicy or veggie versions to make this recipe truly your own. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, smash burger tacos are sure to impress and satisfy. Bon appétit!