Crispy Smash Tacos (Printable Version)

Juicy seasoned beef smashed on crispy tortillas with cheese and fresh toppings for a handheld treat.

# Components:

→ Beef

01 - 1.1 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
02 - 1 tsp kosher salt
03 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
04 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/2 tsp onion powder

→ Tortillas

07 - 8 small (6-inch) flour tortillas

→ Cheese & Toppings

08 - 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
09 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
10 - 1 small head romaine lettuce, shredded
11 - 2 medium tomatoes, diced
12 - 1/2 cup sour cream
13 - 1/2 cup salsa or hot sauce

→ Oil

14 - 2 tbsp neutral oil (canola or vegetable)

# Method Steps:

01 - In a bowl, gently combine ground beef with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
02 - Divide seasoned beef into 8 equal balls, approximately 2 ounces each.
03 - Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
04 - Place 2 to 3 tortillas on the hot surface and center one beef ball on each tortilla.
05 - Using a spatula or burger press, firmly press each beef ball into a thin layer covering most of the tortilla.
06 - Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until beef is browned and crispy on the underside.
07 - Flip each taco so the beef side faces down; cook 1 to 2 minutes until tortillas are crisp and beef is fully cooked.
08 - Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot beef side.
09 - Transfer cooked tacos to a plate, beef side up. Repeat with remaining tortillas and beef, adding oil as necessary.
10 - Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced onions, sour cream, and salsa. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The smashing technique creates maximum crispy edges in minimal time
  • Everything cooks together in one pan for less cleanup
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd without standing over the stove for hours
02 -
  • Dont crowd the pan or the temperature will drop and you'll steam instead of sear
  • Let the pan get hot again between batches if you're cooking in rounds
  • The beef will shrink as it cooks, so smash it thinner than you think you need to
03 -
  • A cast-iron skillet holds heat beautifully and gives the best crispy edge
  • Don't press so hard that the beef tears or becomes transparent—thin but intact is the goal
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