The sizzle of beef, the crisp of freshly cooked tortillas, and the smell of melted cheese all come together in my kitchen as I prepare a dish that has quickly become a family favorite: Best Healthy Smash Burger Tacos. This recipe takes just 30 minutes and delivers a delightful twist on classic burgers by transforming them into hand-held taco goodness. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures that keeps you coming back for more.
This recipe is ideal for casual weeknight dinners or lively weekend gatherings. With its unique presentation and comforting flavors, it’s sure to please both adults and kids alike. Leftover tacos can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making them a convenient option for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smashed burgers create an irresistible crispy texture.
- Made with lean ground beef for a healthier twist.
- Quick to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable with your favorite burger toppings.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious tacos.
For the Beef
- 1 pound ground beef – I used 93/7
- Salt and pepper – to taste
For the Tacos
- 6 (6-inch) tortillas – I used a corn/flour blend
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Toppings
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped onion
- Pickles
- Burger sauce
Note: Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
- Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
- Avocado can substitute for burger sauce.
- Iceberg lettuce works well in place of shredded lettuce.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your scrumptious tacos.
Prep the baking sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the beef
Add the ground beef to a mixing bowl and season it well with salt and pepper.
Portion the meat
Portion the meat into 6 servings. I weighed mine in 2.66-ounce portions using a food scale.
Assemble the tacos
Spread out the tortillas and press each portion of beef into each tortilla using your hands, leaving about a 3/4-1 inch border around each tortilla. Place the assembled, uncooked tacos on the baking sheet.
Heat the pan
Heat a cast iron pan, skillet, griddle, or flat-top grill to medium-high heat and coat the surface in oil.
Cook the tacos
Add the smashed burgers (1 at a time if using a smaller pan) to the pan, meat side down. Press the tortilla into the pan using a burger press, heavy pan, or stainless steel spatula. Spray or brush the tortilla with oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flip, add some cheese, and cook for 2 more minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the edges of the tortillas are crispy. Remove and place onto a lined baking sheet. Continue until you have cooked all the tacos. Note: You can cover the tacos with a lid to help melt the cheese faster.
Top and Serve
Top with your favorite burger toppings and enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, filling may become soggy.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the oil; it helps achieve crispiness.
- Use a burger press for even cooking.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for added flavor.
- Customize toppings based on your preferences for variety.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crispy sweet potato fries.
- Pair with a refreshing summer salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy with your favorite salsa for added zing.
