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Smash Burger Tacos

ground beef tacos

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 8 small taco shells (corn or flour)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • ½ cup salsa (chunky preferred)
  • ¼ cup diced pickles
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 12 tbsp taco seasoning (optional)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup diced onions (optional)
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
  • ½ avocado, sliced or ¼ cup guacamole (optional)
  • ¼ cup sour cream (optional)
  • Hot sauce to taste (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot.
  2. In a bowl, gently mix the ground beef with desired seasonings. Don’t overwork the meat.
  3. Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions and form into loose balls.
  4. Place 2-3 beef balls in the hot skillet, leaving plenty of space between them.
  5. Using a sturdy spatula, firmly smash each ball into a thin patty (about ¼-inch thick). Press for 10 seconds.
  6. Cook untouched for 1-2 minutes until the edges become crispy and browned.
  7. Flip each patty and cook for just 30-45 seconds on the second side.
  8. Remove from the pan and break into smaller pieces. Repeat with remaining beef.
  9. Drain most of the fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
  10. Return all the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the melted butter and ¼ cup of the salsa.
  11. Stir to combine and cook for 30 seconds more to incorporate flavors.
  12. Warm taco shells in the oven at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
  13. Divide the beef mixture among the warmed taco shells.
  14. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, remaining salsa, diced pickles, and any additional desired toppings.
  15. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a special sauce made from equal parts mayo, ketchup and pickle relish.
  • The key to perfect smash burgers is a very hot pan and pressing firmly to create thin patties with crispy edges.
  • Create a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own tacos.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

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