Crispy Smash Tacos (Printable version)

Seasoned beef smashed on tortillas and seared until crisp, topped with cheese and fresh garnishes.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Beef

01 - 1.1 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
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)

# Directions:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The crispy, caramelized beef edges create a textural contrast that makes every bite exciting.
  • You'll have dinner on the table in 30 minutes with zero stress or complicated techniques.
  • It's the kind of dish that looks like you spent way more effort than you actually did.
02 -
  • Don't skip the smash—pressing the beef firmly onto the tortilla is what creates the crispy edges that make these tacos special.
  • If your beef is too wet before cooking, it won't crisp properly; a slightly drier mixture yields better results.
  • Work in batches and don't overcrowd the skillet; each taco needs direct contact with the hot surface to develop that crucial crust.
03 -
  • Use a burger press or cast iron skillet bottom instead of a spatula for more even, consistent pressure.
  • Prep all your toppings before you start cooking so you can assemble and serve immediately while the beef is still hot.
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