Print

Juicy Smash Burger Tacos with Zesty Pickled Onion

juicy smash burger tacos - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy recipe combining crispy smash burger patties with tangy pickled onions served in crunchy taco shells. Perfect for hectic weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or clarified butter (for cooking)
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
  • 8 small corn or flour taco shells
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
  • Optional: sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, or a drizzle of sour cream

Instructions

  1. Make the Pickled Onions: In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, red pepper flakes, and water until sugar dissolves. Add thinly sliced red onions, pressing them down so they’re submerged. Let sit at least 15 minutes.
  2. Preheat Your Skillet: Place cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Heat until it sizzles when a drop of water is flicked on (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Form the Beef Balls: Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz or 55g each). Roll loosely into balls without compacting.
  4. Smash the Patties: Place each beef ball into the hot skillet and press down firmly with spatula or burger press until patties are about 1/4-inch (6mm) thick. Hold for 10 seconds to form crust.
  5. Season & Cook: Sprinkle each patty with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and brown. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until cooked through but still juicy.
  6. Warm the Taco Shells: While burgers cook, warm taco shells in a dry skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes until pliable and slightly toasted.
  7. Assemble the Tacos: Place a patty inside each shell, sprinkle with shredded cheese to melt slightly, add a spoonful of pickled onions, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Add jalapeños or avocado slices if desired.

Notes

Use cold beef for better crust and juiciness. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook one or two patties at a time. Pickled onions improve in flavor if made ahead. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based alternative. Corn taco shells are naturally gluten-free but check packaging.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, tacos, pickled onions, quick dinner, easy recipe, ground beef, taco shells, zesty onions

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/juicy-smash-burger-tacos-recipe-easy-step-by-step-with-zesty-pickled-onion/