Smash Burger Taco Recipe + Burger Sauce

The sizzling sound of beef cooking on a hot griddle fills the air as the aroma of melted cheese wafts up, making your mouth water in anticipation. This Smash Burger Taco Recipe + Burger Sauce combines the best of both worlds—juicy burgers and fun, handheld tacos! In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a savory dish that is sure to impress at any gathering, thanks to the unique cooking technique that keeps every bite flavorful and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for taco night or a casual weekend dinner. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch. You can also prepare the burger sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge for convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The patties are incredibly juicy due to the smash technique, creating a crispy edge.
• Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• The creamy burger sauce adds a rich flavor that elevates the dish.
• Perfectly melty cheese on warm tortillas makes for a delightful texture contrast.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

For the Burger Sauce

• ½ cup mayo
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon dill pickles, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon pickle juice
• ½ teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Tacos

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 6 slices American cheese
• 6 flour tortillas (street taco size)

For Serving

• Shredded lettuce
• Burger pickles
• Optional other toppings: bacon, white onions, burger press, burger patty paper squares

Use light mayo as a lower calorie swap.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Substitute Greek yogurt for mayo.
• Use ground turkey instead of beef.
• Choose cheddar cheese for a different flavor.
• Replace flour tortillas with corn tortillas for gluten-free.

How to Make It

Prepare to create this delicious meal in just a few simple steps.

Make Burger Sauce

Combine mayo, ketchup, chopped pickles, garlic powder, pickle juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed and set aside.

Prep Burger Balls

In a large bowl, mix 1 pound ground beef with ¾ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Divide the mixture into 6 equal-sized balls and set aside.

Prep Other Ingredients

Gather your tortillas and cheese, ensuring all toppings like lettuce and pickles are ready. Having everything prepped will help keep the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Cook Patties + Toast Tortillas

Preheat a flat top griddle to medium-high heat. Place the beef balls on the griddle and, using a burger press, flatten each ball until very thin, about 15-20 seconds per patty. Allow the patties to cook for an additional 40 seconds. Flip each patty and immediately place a slice of cheese on top. At this point, add the tortillas to the griddle. Close the lid and let the burgers cook for about 2 minutes. When time is up, open the lid, flip the tortillas, and use a spatula to lift each patty and place it on top of a toasted tortilla. Transfer to a plate.

Finish Building Taco

Top the burgers with shredded lettuce, burger sauce, and pickles. Feel free to add optional toppings like bacon and thinly sliced onions. Enjoy your creation!

How to Store It

Fridge: Consume within 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, best enjoyed fresh.
Reheat: Microwave for 30-45 seconds or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a heavy burger press for an even cooking surface.
• Don’t skip preheating the griddle for optimal searing.
• Keep an eye on the cheese; remove patties once melted.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crispy homemade fries or tater tots.
• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for balance.
• Excellent for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.