Smash Burger Tacos

Smash tacos combine the best of both worlds: the crispy, caramelized crust of a smash burger and the fun, customizable format of a taco. It's a quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable meal perfect for a fun weeknight dinner. 

Ingredients

For the tacos (makes 8 tacos)

• 1 lb 80/20 ground beef, divided into eight 2-oz loose balls
• 8 small flour tortillas (6-inch street taco size works perfectly)
• 8 slices American or cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• A little neutral oil for the pan (we recommend avocado or vegetable oil) 

For the burger sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1/2 tsp paprika 
• For the toppings
• 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced white or red onion
• 1/2 cup sliced dill pickles
• Diced tomatoes (optional) 

Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce and toppings: In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the burger sauce. Set it aside in the refrigerator. Prepare all your toppings and set them near your cooking area, as the tacos cook very quickly.
2. Season the beef: In a bowl, gently combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into eight equal-sized balls, but do not overwork the meat.
3. Heat the griddle: Preheat a large griddle, Blackstone, or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a touch of oil to prevent sticking.
4. Smash and cook the tacos: Place one ball of beef onto the hot skillet. Immediately place a tortilla flat on top of the beef ball. Using a firm, flat spatula or burger press, firmly smash the meat down until it spreads evenly and thinly to the edge of the tortilla.
5. Flip and melt the cheese: Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the meat is browned, cooked through, and has developed a crispy, lacy edge. Carefully scrape underneath with a sturdy spatula and flip the entire taco over so the meat is facing up. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top of the hot meat.
6. Warm the tortilla: Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the tortilla to become warm and lightly browned.
7. Assemble and serve: Remove the finished taco from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Immediately add your toppings, such as shredded lettuce, onion, and pickles. Drizzle with the burger sauce, fold, and serve immediately.