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Smash burger tacos are one of those recipes that feel like a cheat code for dinner. They come together fast in the air fryer with crispy edges, juicy meat, and melty cheese wrapped in a soft tortilla. If you’re craving a burger but want something more handheld and fun, this one hits the spot every time.
I first tried these on a whim and couldn’t believe how tasty and easy they were. Now it’s a regular in my weeknight rotation when I want something satisfying fast.
- Ground beef 80 20 blend: gives the ideal balance of flavor and juiciness
- Kosher salt: enhances the beef and gives it that classic burger taste
- Flour tortillas: make the perfect base and crisp beautifully in the air fryer
- American cheese: melts easily and brings creamy sharpness
- White onion and mayonnaise: add crunch and cream but feel free to personalize with any toppings you love
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and let it heat for five minutes. This ensures the tortillas crisp quickly and the beef cooks evenly.
- Prepare the Tortillas:
- Spread about one fourth cup of ground beef evenly over each tortilla. Press the meat all the way to the edges to help it cook consistently. Season each one lightly with salt and spray with cooking spray for even browning.
- Air Fry Until Crispy:
- Place the tortillas meat side up in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry at 400 degrees for five minutes or until the beef is fully cooked and the tortilla is crisp around the edges.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Top each taco with a slice of American cheese and return to the air fryer with the heat turned off. Let them sit for one minute to melt the cheese using the residual heat.
- Add Toppings and Serve:
- Remove the tacos from the basket and top with diced onion and mayo or your favorite toppings. Gently fold and serve right away while they are hot and crisp.
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Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a hot skillet to keep the tortillas crispy. Always add fresh toppings after reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground beef for turkey chicken pork or plant based crumbles. Use sea salt or garlic salt if you don’t have kosher. Try cheddar jack or vegan cheese instead of American. Whole wheat or corn tortillas work well if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crispy fries or a fresh salad on the side. Offer a topping bar with pickles shredded lettuce and hot sauce. Pair with a cold soda or iced tea for a classic diner feel.
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Cultural Note
This recipe is a fun fusion that plays off the growing love for smash burgers and taco culture. It captures the texture of a good burger with the ease and flavor customizability of a taco.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes, use a hot skillet or griddle on the stove. Press the beef into tortillas and cook until crisp and cooked through.
- → What cheese works best for smash tacos?
American cheese melts beautifully, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Muenster are great alternatives for flavor and melt.
- → How do I prevent soggy tortillas when reheating?
Reheat in a skillet or griddle to crisp the tortillas again. Avoid microwaving, which softens them too much.
- → Can I use other meats besides ground beef?
Yes, try ground turkey, chicken, pork, or plant-based options. Adjust cooking time based on the meat used.
- → What toppings go well with smash burger tacos?
Classic options include mayonnaise, white onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles, or any of your favorite burger toppings.