Ingredients You’ll Need

For the smash burger patties:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio for maximum juiciness)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 4-6 small flour tortillas (street taco size)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese slices)
• Butter or neutral oil (for cooking)

For the secret mac sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp sweet relish (or dill pickles, finely chopped)
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For toppings (optional):

• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced tomatoes
• Pickles
• Diced onions
• Bacon bits
• Hot sauce or sriracha

Step 1: Make the Secret Mac Sauce

The secret mac sauce is what sets these tacos apart. It’s inspired by the iconic sauce from fast-food chains but with a homemade twist. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, white vinegar, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Pro tip: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so make it ahead if you can!

Step 2: Prepare the Smash Burger Patties

The key to a great smash burger is technique. You want thin, crispy patties with a caramelized crust. Here’s how:

1. Divide the ground beef into 4-6 equal balls (about 2.5 oz each). Don’t overwork the meat—just gently shape them into loose balls.
2. Season both sides of each ball with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface.
4. Place a beef ball in the skillet and immediately press it down with a spatula or burger smasher until it’s thin and flat (about ¼-inch thick). Press firmly for 10-15 seconds to ensure maximum crispiness.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Flip the patty and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.
6. Immediately top the patty with cheese and let it melt for about 10 seconds. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Repeat with the remaining beef balls, adding more butter or oil to the skillet as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Smash Burger Tacos

Now for the fun part—putting it all together!

1. Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them pliable.
2. Spread a generous spoonful of secret mac sauce on each tortilla.
3. Place a smash burger patty on top of the sauce, followed by your choice of toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions).
4. Drizzle with more sauce if desired, then fold the tortilla in half to form a taco.

Serve immediately while the patties are still warm and crispy!

1. Use the Right Beef

For the juiciest smash burgers, use ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio. The fat renders as the patty cooks, creating that signature crispy crust. Lean beef will result in dry, less flavorful patties.

2. Don’t Skip the Seasoning

Season the beef balls before smashing them. This ensures the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the patty, not just on the surface.

3. Smash Hard and Fast

The key to a crispy smash burger is high heat and firm pressure. Use a heavy spatula or a dedicated burger smasher to press the beef into the skillet quickly and firmly. The faster you smash, the crispier the patty will be.

4. Keep the Patties Thin

Smash burger patties should be thin and wide (about ¼-inch thick). This maximizes the surface area for crispiness and ensures they cook quickly.

5. Cheese Matters

For the best melt, use American cheese slices or a sharp cheddar. American cheese melts smoothly and adds a creamy texture, while cheddar adds a bold flavor.

6. Warm Your Tortillas

Cold tortillas are more likely to crack when folded. Warm them briefly in a skillet or microwave to make them soft and pliable.

7. Get Creative with Toppings

While classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles work great, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try adding:

• Crispy bacon
• Avocado or guacamole
• Fried eggs
• Jalapeños for heat
• Caramelized onions

Can I make smash burger tacos ahead of time?

While smash burger tacos are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components ahead of time:

• Mac sauce: Make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
• Patties: Cook the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before assembling.
• Tortillas: Warm tortillas just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

Assemble the tacos right before serving to keep them crispy and fresh.

What’s the best way to reheat smash burger tacos?

To reheat, place the assembled tacos in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, or wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can experiment with other meats like:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Use a mix with higher fat content for juiciness.
• Ground pork: Adds a rich, savory flavor.
• Plant-based crumbles: Opt for a high-protein, beef-like texture.

Adjust cooking times as needed, as leaner meats may cook faster.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat as described above. Note that the tortillas may lose some crispiness upon reheating.

Can I freeze smash burger patties?

Yes! Freeze cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet.