Name: Tortilla Burgers (Smash Burger Tacos)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20); 6 small flour tortillas (about 6 inches); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or American cheese; 1 tablespoon oil or butter for pan; Burger Sauce (optional):; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon mustard; 1 tablespoon pickle relish; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Toppings:; 1 1/2 cups shredded lettuce; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup sliced pickles; 1/2 cup sliced onions (raw or lightly sautéed)

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These tortilla burgers, often called smash burger tacos, are a fun and satisfying twist on two classic favorites. Juicy seasoned beef is pressed directly onto a soft flour tortilla, cooked until perfectly browned, then flipped so the tortilla crisps while the cheese melts. Finished with fresh toppings and a creamy burger-style sauce, this dish delivers big flavor in a fast, no-fuss way that works for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It brings together the best parts of burgers and tacos in one bite
The tortillas turn golden and crispy while the beef stays juicy
Everything cooks quickly in one pan
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sauces
A family-friendly recipe that works for casual meals or parties

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the burger tacos
1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
6 small flour tortillas (soft taco size, about 6 inches)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1½ cups shredded cheddar or American cheese
1 tablespoon oil or butter for the pan

For the burger sauce (optional)
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
1 tablespoon pickle relish
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika

For toppings
1½ cups shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
½ cup sliced pickles
½ cup sliced onions, raw or lightly sautéed

Directions

In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth. Set aside in the refrigerator.

Place the ground beef in a mixing bowl. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Gently mix until just combined. Divide the beef into 6 equal portions.

Flatten each portion into a very thin patty, roughly the size of the tortillas. Press each patty firmly onto one side of a tortilla, making sure the beef adheres well and covers most of the surface.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with oil or butter. Place the tortillas beef-side down into the hot pan. Press gently with a spatula to ensure good contact.

Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the beef develops a browned, crispy crust. Carefully flip each tortilla so the tortilla side is now down. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the beef.

Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until the tortilla is golden and crisp and the cheese has melted.

Remove from the pan. Spread burger sauce over the beef, then add lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and onions. Fold gently like a taco and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 tortilla burgers

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: about 20 minutes

Variations

Add sliced sautéed mushrooms and swap the cheese for Swiss-style cheese for a mushroom version.
For a spicy option, mix hot sauce or chili paste into the burger sauce and add sliced jalapeños.
Use barbecue sauce instead of burger sauce and top with crispy fried onions for a smoky flavor.
Add extra cheese and keep the toppings simple for a kid-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

These tortilla burgers are best enjoyed fresh while the tortillas are crisp. If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, warm them in a hot skillet or air fryer for a few minutes until heated through and crisp again. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the tortillas soft.

FAQs

Can I use lean ground beef instead of 80/20?

Yes, but the burgers may be slightly less juicy. Adding a small amount of oil to the pan helps prevent dryness.

What size tortillas work best?

Soft taco-size flour tortillas, around 6 inches, are ideal for even cooking and easy folding.

Can I make these ahead of time?

They are best cooked fresh, but you can prep the sauce and toppings ahead to save time.

Can I cook these on a grill?

A flat-top grill or griddle works well, but traditional grill grates are not ideal because of the tortillas.

What cheese melts best for this recipe?

Cheddar and American-style cheese melt smoothly and complement the burger flavor well.

Can I use whole wheat tortillas?

Yes, whole wheat tortillas work, though they may be slightly less crisp.

How do I keep the beef from falling off the tortilla?

Press the beef firmly onto the tortilla before cooking and avoid moving it too early in the pan.

Are these good for kids?

Yes, they are mild, customizable, and easy to eat, making them very kid-friendly.

Can I freeze tortilla burgers?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the tortilla can suffer after thawing.

What sides go well with tortilla burgers?

They pair well with fries, potato wedges, a simple salad, or coleslaw.

Conclusion

Tortilla burgers are a fast, flavorful, and creative way to enjoy classic smash burger taste without buns or grilling. With crispy tortillas, juicy beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, this recipe delivers comfort food satisfaction in every bite and is sure to become a repeat favorite at your table.