Smash Burger Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I can never get enough of the crispy-edged smash patties in this recipe — they bring that diner-style flavor I love. The Big Mac sauce adds creamy, tangy richness, while the lettuce, onion, and pickles bring crunch and brightness. These tacos are quick, customizable, and fun to eat. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or just looking to level up taco Tuesday, they always disappear fast.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juicy burgers)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 4 slices American cheese

• 4 medium flour tortillas

• ½ cup shredded iceberg lettuce

• ¼ cup finely diced white onion

• Dill pickle slices

• Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

For the Big Mac Sauce:

• 1 cup mayo

• ¼ cup sweet pickle relish

• 2 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tsp white vinegar

• 1¼ tsp paprika

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ⅛ tsp white pepper (optional)

Directions

1. Make the Big Mac Sauce
In a bowl, I whisk together mayo, relish, mustard, vinegar, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and white pepper. I taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then refrigerate it for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors develop.

2. Prep the Tortillas
I warm a skillet over medium heat and toast each tortilla for 1–2 minutes per side, just until it’s lightly charred and puffed. Then I set them aside on a plate while I make the burgers.

3. Cook the Smashburgers
I divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls (about 4 oz each). In a hot cast iron skillet or griddle, I place a beef ball and smash it flat with a spatula — parchment paper helps prevent sticking. I season with salt and pepper, cook for 2 minutes, then flip. I add a slice of American cheese and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until the edges are crispy and the cheese is melted.

4. Assemble the Tacos
I spread a generous layer of Big Mac sauce on each tortilla, then top with shredded lettuce, diced onion, and dill pickle slices. I place one cheesy smash patty on top and fold the tortilla over like a taco.

5. Serve
I serve them warm with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Sometimes I sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a classic burger bun vibe.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Variations

• I sometimes add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Swapping American cheese for cheddar or pepper jack gives a different flavor twist.

• I use mini street taco tortillas for smaller bites — great for parties.

• For a low-carb version, I wrap the patties in lettuce leaves instead of tortillas.

• I’ve even made a breakfast version with egg and sausage patties instead of beef.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the cooked beef patties and sauce separately from the toppings and tortillas. The patties keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet or microwave until warm, then assemble fresh tacos. I don’t recommend storing assembled tacos, as they can get soggy.

FAQs

Can I make the Big Mac sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the sauce a day or two in advance. It keeps in the fridge for up to a week and actually tastes better after sitting a while.

What kind of ground beef is best?

I always use 80/20 ground beef for smashburgers — the higher fat content gives that juicy, flavorful sear and crispy edges.

Do I need a cast iron skillet for the smash patties?

A cast iron skillet works best for getting that crispy crust, but any heavy-bottomed skillet or flat-top griddle will do the job well.

Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely. I like American cheese for that classic melt, but cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack all work great depending on what flavor I want.

How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?

I make sure to toast the tortillas until they’re slightly crisp. Also, I assemble the tacos just before eating to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

Conclusion

Smash Burger Tacos are my new favorite way to enjoy burgers — juicy, cheesy, and loaded with classic toppings, all tucked into a toasted tortilla. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and totally customizable. Whether I’m cooking for a casual family dinner or serving a crowd, these always steal the spotlight.