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–+ servings
image of realistic top down mise en place shot showing fresh ingredients ground beef tortillas cheddar cheese salt pepper taco seasoning iceberg lettuce diced onion tomatoes pickles sesame seeds arranged on a white marble kitchen counter with healthy clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight
adam saha

Ground Beef Smash Tacos

Experience the ultimate fusion of crunchy smash burger patties and soft tortillas in these quick and easy Ground Beef Smash Tacos, perfect for a family dinner bursting with flavor and nostalgia.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 tacos
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tacos
  • 1 lb Ground beef (80/20)
  • 8-12 Flour tortillas (small, street taco size) soft and pliable
  • 8 Cheese slices (American or sharp cheddar) for melting
  • Coarse salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp Butter or oil optional for non-stick surface
For the Toppings
  • 1 cup Shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/2 cup Diced white onion
  • 1/4 cup Sliced dill pickles
  • 1/2 cup Chopped tomatoes optional
  • Ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise for serving

Equipment

  • Large flat-bottomed non-stick pan or cast-iron skillet
  • Sturdy metal spatula or burger press
  • Parchment paper (optional for non-sticking)

Method
 

Prepare the Meat and Pan
  1. Divide the ground beef into 2-ounce balls (about 8 balls for 1 lb of meat). Preheat a large flat-bottomed non-stick pan, cast-iron skillet, or griddle over high heat until screaming hot.
Smash the Beef
  1. Lightly butter the pan if needed. Place one beef ball on the hot surface, top with a tortilla, and smash firmly with a spatula or burger press until the beef is very thin and adheres to the tortilla.
  2. Season the exposed beef with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until edges are crispy and dark brown.
  3. Flip the taco so beef is now up, place a cheese slice on the hot beef, and cook 30 seconds to 1 minute until cheese melts.
  4. Remove and repeat with remaining ingredients. Top with lettuce, onion, pickles, tomatoes, and sauces. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20g

Notes

For best results, use 80/20 ground beef for juiciness and crispiness. Preheat thoroughly for searing. Store assembled tacos briefly; reheat meat side down in a dry pan for crispiness. Leftover taco bases last up to 3 days in fridge.
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