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These tortilla burgers bring together the crispy, juicy appeal of classic smash burgers with the convenience and fun of tacos. Ground beef patties are smashed and seared until they develop flavorful crusts, then layered with American cheese to melt perfectly. Wrapped in warm flour tortillas and topped with crisp pickles, diced onions, shredded lettuce, and a tangy homemade burger sauce, these handheld tacos are satisfying and great for quick weeknight dinners or casual parties.
The melty cheese combined with the tangy sauce creates a flavor that everyone at my house raves about. I discovered this recipe on a game night and now it is always on the rotation when friends come over.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Choose fresh beef with a bright red color for juicy patties
- Flour taco shells: Select soft and flexible tortillas to make folding easier and prevent tearing
- American cheese: Slices melt nicely and deliver that classic burger taste
- Pickles: Sliced dill pickles add a perfect tangy crunch
- Onion: Diced sweet or white onions provide sharpness and fresh texture
- Lettuce: Shredded iceberg or romaine brings crispness that balances the savory beef
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the burger sauce
- Mustard: Yellow mustard offers sharpness to brighten the sauce
- White vinegar: Gives a subtle tang to the sauce for balance
- Swerve: A sugar substitute that sweetens without calories use confectioners style for smooth mixing
- Smoked paprika: Brings warmth and gentle smokiness Spanish smoked paprika adds layers of flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your griddle or skillet:
- Heat your cooking surface over mediumhigh heat until it is very hot. This is crucial for crisply searing the burgers and caramelizing their edges.
- Make the sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, smoked paprika, white vinegar and Swerve until the mixture is completely smooth. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later.
- Prepare the toppings:
- Dice the onion, slice the pickles and shred the lettuce. Arrange them ready to use since you will assemble the tacos quickly once the patties are cooked.
- Shape and cook the burgers:
- Divide the ground beef into eight equal balls and place them spaced on the hot griddle. Press down on each ball to flatten it firmly using a spatula or burger press. Season generously with salt and pepper and cook without moving for two to three minutes until the edges develop a deep crisp. Flip each patty and immediately top with a slice of American cheese. Continue cooking for one more minute until the cheese melts.
- Warm the tortillas:
- Place each tortilla directly on the griddle for about thirty seconds per side. You want them soft and just slightly toasted to keep them pliable and prevent cracking when folded.
- Assemble the tortilla burgers:
- Lay a cheesy burger patty onto each warmed tortilla. Add diced onions and sliced pickles generously, then drizzle with the prepared sauce. Top with shredded lettuce for a fresh finish.
- Serve immediately:
- Enjoy the tacos hot while the cheese is gooey and flavors are at their peak. Feel free to add your favorite burger toppings to customize each one.
The homemade sauce is my favorite part—it’s tangy with a smoky kick that really lifts all the other flavors. One of my best memories with this dish is having a latenight snack party with friends where everyone packed their tacos with extra pickles and cheese which led to a lively and fun debate about the best topping combination.
Storage Tips
Store leftover components separately for best results. Place cooked beef patties, toppings and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the beef and tortillas shortly before serving to prevent sogginess. Avoid assembling tacos in advance as the tortillas can get soggy quickly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground chicken or turkey work well if you want a lighter alternative to beef. Whole wheat or corn tortillas can add fiber and a different flavor profile if you prefer. Cheddar or pepper jack cheese can replace American cheese for a sharper or spicier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these tacos with sweet potato fries or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. Extra pickle slices or fresh tomato add even more classic burger elements. Set up a taco bar so guests can build their own with all the fixings.
Enjoy these tortilla burgers hot for the best texture and flavor. They are perfect for casual meals and parties.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of beef is best for smash burgers?
Use ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy, flavorful patties that sear well.
- → How do you get crispy edges on the smashed beef?
Heat the griddle very hot and smash the beef firmly to create crisp, caramelized edges.
- → Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Corn tortillas work but are less flexible; flour tortillas are better for wrapping and softness.
- → Which toppings complement these smash burgers?
Classic burger fixings like shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and diced onions add crunch and freshness.
- → How to prevent tortillas from tearing when assembling?
Warm tortillas briefly on the griddle until soft and pliable to avoid cracking or tearing.