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Easy Smash Burger Tacos - featured image

Easy Smash Burger Tacos with Special Sauce

  • Author: Isabel
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

A fast, gluten-free weeknight dinner featuring crispy smashed beef patties served in warm corn tortillas with a tangy, creamy special sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 8–10 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish or chopped dill pickles
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Neutral oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, relish, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Divide ground beef into eight equal balls (2-3 oz each). Season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Warm corn tortillas in the microwave or a dry pan until pliable.
  4. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy stainless steel pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of neutral oil to coat the bottom.
  5. Place two beef balls in the hot pan. Immediately press down hard with a burger press or heavy spoon to flatten them to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  6. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving the patties, allowing a deep brown, crispy crust to form.
  7. Flip the patties. Immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot side of the beef.
  8. Let the cheese melt for 30-60 seconds.
  9. Place a cheesy beef patty in the center of a warm tortilla. Drizzle generously with the special sauce.
  10. Add optional toppings like diced onions, pickles, or jalapeños. Fold the tortilla in half and serve immediately.
  11. Repeat with remaining beef, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Notes

Ensure the beef is 80/20 fat content for crispy edges. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper searing. Warm tortillas before assembling to prevent cracking. The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 taco
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 15
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 18

Keywords: smash burger tacos, gluten-free tacos, special sauce, quick dinner, ground beef recipes, weeknight meals, crispy tacos

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Find it online: https://mealsfordinner.com/easy-smash-burger-tacos-best-gluten-free-special-sauce/