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If you are searching for a ridiculously simple dinner that satisfies a burger craving and taco night all at once these easy Smash Burger Tacos made in the air fryer are exactly what you need. They cook up in minutes using budget-friendly ingredients and you can customize every single one for picky eaters or late-night snackers.
I first came across this recipe during a busy week and it is now my secret weapon for avoiding takeout even on the most chaotic evenings.
Ingredients
- Small tortillas: These are the base so look for flexible flour tortillas that do not crack when folded Small street taco size works great
- Ground beef: The star of the show Go for 80 or 85 percent lean for juicy burgers that do not dry out Freshly ground is ideal
- Salt: Essential for flavor Sprinkle lightly over the beef once it is pressed onto the tortilla
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures the tortilla crisps up evenly Opt for a neutral oil spray for best results
- Cheese slices: Adds melty goodness Cheddar or American cheese both work well Choose real cheese for the best melt
- Your favorite burger toppings: This is where you can make every taco your own Classic lettuce pickles and your favorite sauce turn these into true smash burgers Opt for crisp fresh toppings for crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to heat for five minutes This ensures everything cooks evenly and helps the tortillas get perfectly crisp
- Prep the Smash Tacos:
- Take about a quarter cup of ground beef and press it directly onto a tortilla spreading it all the way to the edges until you almost cannot see the tortilla underneath Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the beef and then give everything a quick spray with cooking spray
- Air Fry the Tacos:
- Arrange the tortillas beef side up in a single layer in your air fryer basket Try not to crowd them so they get crispy on all sides Cook them at four hundred degrees for five minutes until the beef is cooked through and you see the tortilla turning golden and crisp at the edges
- Melt the Cheese:
- If you love a classic cheeseburger lay a slice of cheese on the hot taco and slide the basket back into the air fryer with the heat off Let it sit one minute so the cheese melts beautifully without overcooking the beef
- Assemble and Serve:
- Remove each taco from the air fryer and add your burger toppings Try shredded lettuce thin sliced pickles and a drizzle of sauce Fold gently and enjoy right away while they are hot and crunchy
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Lettuce is my favorite topping for these tacos because it brings cool crunch to every bite and I will never forget my daughter’s face when I surprised her with these on her birthday taco bar
Storage Tips
Once cooked Smash Burger Tacos can be kept in the fridge for up to two days Reheat them in the air fryer to restore crispiness Avoid microwaving as that can make the tortillas soggy Store toppings separately and assemble right before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to lighten things up you can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken Dairy free cheese works well for those with allergies Feel free to use low carb tortillas if you are watching carbs or want a gluten free version
Serving Suggestions
Pair these with classic burger sides like crispy fries or a simple salad For a party setup let everyone choose their own toppings and set out bowls of pickles sliced tomato and different sauces They are even great for picnic dinners since they travel well once cooled
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Cultural Origins
Smash Burger Tacos combine the classic American smashed burger technique with the joy of taco night The viral trend took over social media thanks to its approachable ingredients and fun presentation making it a staple for families across the United States
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Any meltable cheese like cheddar, American, or Monterey Jack works well on these tacos.
- → What toppings work best with smash burger tacos?
Classic toppings like lettuce, pickles, sliced tomato, ketchup, mustard, or your favorite burger sauce add great flavor.
- → How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?
Ensure the air fryer preheats fully and cook in a single layer so the tortillas get crisp instead of soft.
- → Can I prepare these tacos ahead of time?
They're best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the beef and toppings ahead to save time when cooking.
- → Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative and follow the same method for a meat-free option.