Crispy Smash Tacos Delight (Print Version)

Seared smashed beef on tortillas topped with cheese, lettuce, and salsa for a tasty handheld meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Beef

01 - 1.1 lbs (500 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
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 (120 g) 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 (e.g., canola or vegetable)

# How To Make:

01 - In a bowl, combine ground beef with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until just incorporated.
02 - Divide the seasoned beef into eight equal portions, approximately 2 ounces (60 grams) each, shaping them into balls.
03 - Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
04 - Place two to three tortillas on the heated surface. Center a beef ball on each tortilla.
05 - Using a spatula or burger press, firmly press each beef ball into a thin layer covering most of the tortilla surface.
06 - Sear the beef for 2 to 3 minutes until the bottom is browned and crisp.
07 - Carefully flip each taco so the beef side faces down and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the tortillas become crisp and the beef is fully cooked.
08 - Sprinkle a small handful of shredded cheese onto the hot beef side while still on the cooking surface.
09 - Remove the tacos to a plate with the beef side facing up. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and beef balls, adding more oil as necessary.
10 - Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced red onions, sour cream, and salsa to preference. Serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The beef gets impossibly crispy and caramelized in minutes, delivering way more flavor than a standard taco.
  • You can have dinner on the table in 30 minutes without feeling rushed or sacrificing quality.
  • The contrast of soft tortilla, crunchy beef, and fresh toppings makes every bite interesting.
02 -
  • Don't overwork the beef when you season it or you'll end up with dense, tough tacos—mix gently just until combined.
  • The tortilla matters more than you'd think; if it's too thick or old, it won't crisp properly even with a good sear on the beef.
  • Work in small batches and give each taco its full cooking time—rushing this step means you'll lose that irreplaceable crispy texture.
03 -
  • Keep your beef cold until you're ready to cook; cold beef firms up and smashes better than room-temperature meat.
  • If your tortillas are thick or dry, warm them slightly before cooking to help them crisp evenly instead of hardening.
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