Smash Burger Tacos

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef (80% lean, freshly ground)
• 8 Small Flour Tortillas (6‑inch diameter, warmed before serving)
• 4 slices Pepper Gouda Cheese (Thinly sliced; pepper jack works as a substitute)
• 2 Tbsp Burger Sauce (Store‑bought or homemade mayo‑ketchup blend)
• 1 tsp Salt (Kosher or sea salt)
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
• 0.25 tsp Garlic Powder (Optional, adds subtle depth)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients

   Slice the pepper Gouda cheese thinly and set aside. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 20 seconds or in a dry skillet until pliable.

   Time: PT5M

2. Preheat Skillet

   Place the cast iron skillet over medium‑high heat and let it get hot enough that a few drops of water sizzle and evaporate immediately.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium‑high

3. Form Beef Balls

   Divide the ground beef into four equal portions (about ¼ lb each) and loosely shape each into a ball.

   Time: PT1M

4. Smash the Beef

   Place one beef ball in the hot skillet and immediately press it flat with the spatula for about 10 seconds, creating a thin patty.

   Time: PT1M

   Temperature: medium‑high

5. Sear First Side

   Let the patty cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a deep brown crust.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium‑high

6. Flip and Finish

   Flip the patty and cook the other side for 1 minute. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

   Time: PT1M

   Temperature: medium‑high

7. Assemble the Taco

   Place the cooked patty on a warm tortilla, top with a slice of pepper Gouda, and drizzle with burger sauce. The residual heat will melt the cheese.

   Time: PT2M

8. Serve

   Serve the tacos immediately while hot. Enjoy with extra sauce on the side if desired.

   Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

350

Protein

20 g

Carbohydrates

30 g

Fat

18 g

Fiber

2 g