For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp cooking oil or butter
- 6 slices American cheese
For the Secret Smash Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp pickle juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Pinch of sugar
For Toppings & Assembly:
- 8-10 street-size flour tortillas
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- Diced white onion
- Sliced dill pickles
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Hot sauce optional
Smash the Patties:
Divide ground beef into 8–10 golf ball-sized portions.
Heat skillet or griddle over high heat until smoking hot.
Add oil, then place beef balls with space between.
Smash flat with spatula and season with salt and pepper.
Let cook undisturbed for 1–2 mins until crispy edges form.
Flip and top immediately with cheese.
Cook another 30 seconds, then remove and let rest.
Assemble Tacos:
Spread sauce on each tortilla.
Add lettuce, a cheesy patty, toppings of your choice, and extra sauce.
Serve immediately while warm!
Use 80/20 beef for best flavor and juiciness.
Don’t season meat before smashing – crust forms better without it.
For parties, prep sauce and toppings ahead. Smash patties fresh for best results.
You can swap American cheese for cheddar, but it won’t melt as evenly.
Don’t skip the pickle juice in the sauce – it's the secret ingredient!
Calories: 340kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 22g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 580mg | Potassium: 320mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 400IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 2mg