Crispy Smash Burger Tacos with In-N-Out remix sauce

Imagine biting into a taco that crackles with a crispy seared beef patty, nestled inside a golden tortilla and dripping with a sauce that tastes like your favorite drive-thru indulgence. That’s exactly what these Crispy Smash Burger Tacos bring to the table. Each bite is juicy, cheesy, tangy, and just the right amount of messy — the kind of meal that gets your fingers dirty and leaves you grinning from ear to ear.

Behind the Recipe

The inspiration came from a night when I couldn’t decide between making burgers or tacos — so I thought, why not both? The idea of smashing a juicy beef patty directly into a tortilla until it crisps up felt wild at first, but the moment I tasted it, I knew I was onto something special. It’s the kind of no-fuss recipe that feels like a treat, even though it’s surprisingly easy to whip up.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

This playful twist on the classic American burger takes cues from the viral smash burger trend and gives it a tortilla-loving makeover. Smash burgers became famous for their crave-worthy crispy edges and juicy interiors, and by pressing them into tortillas, you get all that goodness with an added crunch. Pair that with a homemade version of In-N-Out’s signature spread, and you’ve got a flavor-packed hybrid that’s pure comfort food magic.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Smash Burger Tacos with In-N-Out remix sauce

These aren’t your average tacos — they’re a full-on flavor experience. Here’s why they’ll become your go-to favorite:

Versatile: Whether it’s a quick lunch, a fun dinner, or party food, these tacos adapt to any occasion.

Budget-Friendly: Ground beef, tortillas, and pantry staples keep this dish affordable and accessible.

Quick and Easy: From skillet to plate in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight savior.

Customizable: Change up the cheese, throw in jalapeños, or swap the sauce — this recipe welcomes tweaks.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from kids to adults lights up when these hit the table.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sauce and toppings in advance to make cooking a breeze.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat in a pan or air fryer for that crispy bite all over again.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want that restaurant-worthy bite every time? Here’s how to make these tacos next-level:

• Smash the beef thin: Press the meat firmly into the tortilla to ensure a lacy, crispy crust.
• Use high heat: A ripping hot skillet guarantees those irresistible charred edges.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Work in batches to keep each taco crispy, not soggy.
• Let the cheese melt naturally: Covering the pan for a minute helps it ooze perfectly.
• Toast both sides: Give the tortilla a quick flip after the beef crisps up for extra texture.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To get those tacos sizzling just right, make sure your kitchen is equipped with:

Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle: Delivers that signature crispy sear.

Spatula or Burger Press: Helps smash the beef into the tortilla evenly.

Mixing Bowls: For prepping your toppings and remix sauce.

Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded.

Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing lettuce, pickles, and other toppings.

Ingredients in Crispy Smash Burger Tacos with In-N-Out remix sauce

Every ingredient plays a key role in creating that iconic flavor and texture combo. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Ground Beef (80/20): 1 lb — Juicy and perfect for smashing thanks to its fat content.
2. Flour Tortillas (small street taco size): 6 pieces — The crispy base for the burger.
3. Cheddar Cheese (shredded): 1 cup — Adds melty richness to every bite.
4. Shredded Lettuce: 1 cup — Brings crunch and freshness to balance the heat.
5. Dill Pickles (sliced): ½ cup — Delivers that iconic tang and bite.
6. Mayonnaise: ½ cup — Creamy base for the remix sauce.
7. Ketchup: 2 tablespoons — Brings a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
8. Yellow Mustard: 1 tablespoon — Adds zip and sharpness to balance flavors.
9. Sweet Pickle Relish: 1 tablespoon — Gives the sauce that signature twist.
10. White Vinegar: 1 teaspoon — Brightens up the sauce.
11. Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon — A gentle savory note in the sauce.
12. Salt and Pepper: to taste — Essential seasoning for beef and toppings.
13. Cooking Oil: 1 tablespoon — For greasing the skillet and enhancing browning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Switch things up if needed with these easy swaps:

Ground Beef: Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.

Flour Tortillas: Corn tortillas or low-carb alternatives.

Cheddar Cheese: American cheese or mozzarella.

Dill Pickles: Bread and butter pickles for a sweeter twist.

Sweet Pickle Relish: Finely chopped pickles with a touch of sugar.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground Beef (80/20): This blend is ideal because the fat content helps the patty caramelize and stay juicy when smashed.

Sweet Pickle Relish: The unsung hero of the remix sauce — its sweet-tangy pop brings depth and nostalgia.

Instructions for Making Crispy Smash Burger Tacos with In-N-Out remix sauce

This recipe is meant to be fun, quick, and hands-on. So roll up your sleeves, fire up that skillet, and let’s get sizzling.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Heat a large cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high until it’s screaming hot. Add a small drizzle of oil.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a small bowl, mix mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, and garlic powder to make your remix sauce. Set aside.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Lightly oil the skillet surface. Have your tortillas and beef balls (about 2 ounces each) ready nearby.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Place a tortilla on the hot skillet. Add a beef ball on top, then smash it flat with a spatula or burger press to spread thin across the tortilla.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Let the taco cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving. Flip it once the beef is crisp and browned. Sprinkle cheese over the beef side and let it melt while the tortilla side crisps up, about 1 minute.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Remove from pan and immediately top with lettuce, pickles, and a generous drizzle of remix sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve hot with extra sauce on the side, maybe a handful of fries, and definitely some napkins.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic of this recipe is in the contrast. The beef crisps into a lacy, almost crunchy edge while staying juicy in the middle. The tortilla toasts golden but stays chewy. The remix sauce adds tang and creaminess, while the pickles and lettuce offer cool, crisp relief from the sizzle.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here are a few ideas to keep your tacos top-tier every time:

• Always preheat your skillet before cooking.
• Use parchment paper or wax paper between beef balls to speed up the smashing process.
• Keep sauce chilled until serving for that diner-style contrast.
• Grate your cheese fresh — it melts creamier and tastes better.

What to Avoid

Let’s keep this recipe smooth sailing. Steer clear of these common mistakes:

• Skipping the smashing step — it’s what gives the beef those crispy edges.
• Using lean beef — you’ll miss out on the richness and texture.
• Overloading toppings — keep it balanced to let each layer shine.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 420
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The remix sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. You can also prep the beef balls ahead and keep them chilled until ready to cook. Leftover tacos can be wrapped in foil and reheated in a skillet or air fryer for crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the tortilla.

How to Serve Crispy Smash Burger Tacos with In-N-Out remix sauce

These tacos are a meal on their own, but you can serve them with:

• Crinkle-cut fries or waffle fries
• A fresh slaw or chopped salad
• Mini milkshakes for a retro vibe

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers? Lucky you. Try these:

• Chop up the taco filling and toss it into a salad with extra remix sauce.
• Reheat and stuff into a grilled cheese.
• Use it as a topping for loaded nachos.

Additional Tips

Here are a few final nuggets of taco wisdom:

• Use a press to keep your smash even and thin.
• A sprinkle of sesame seeds on the tortilla adds a burger bun-like flair.
• If making a big batch, keep cooked tacos warm in a 200°F oven.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation matters. Serve your tacos stacked slightly overlapping on a wooden board with ramekins of remix sauce. Scatter some shredded lettuce and pickles around for color. Add a diner-style paper liner under the tacos for that nostalgic fast food feel.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Jalapeño Edition: Add fresh or pickled jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
• Breakfast Style: Top with a fried egg and hash brown bits.
• BBQ Twist: Swap remix sauce with BBQ mayo and add caramelized onions.
• Tex-Mex Version: Add pico de gallo, black beans, and hot sauce.
• Mini Slider Style: Use smaller tortillas and serve as party bites.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work great. Just adjust cooking time slightly.

Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use gluten-free tortillas and verify all sauce ingredients.

Q3: Can I freeze these?
Not recommended. The texture is best fresh or reheated within a day or two.

Q4: How do I make it spicier?
Add hot sauce to the remix or sprinkle chili flakes into the beef.

Q5: What if I don’t have a burger press?
A flat spatula or even a heavy pan will do the job just fine.

Q6: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and check your sauce ingredients.

Q7: What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar, American, or pepper jack melt beautifully.

Q8: Can I air-fry these tacos?
You can reheat them in the air fryer, but they cook best on a skillet.

Q9: How long does the remix sauce last?
Up to 5 days in a sealed container in the fridge.

Q10: Do I need to grease the skillet?
Yes, a light oil coating helps achieve that golden crust.

Conclusion

If you’ve never tried a smash burger taco, this is your sign. The textures, the flavor punch, that dreamy remix sauce — it’s all working together in one incredible bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this. It’s a fun, fast, and flavor-packed recipe that turns a weeknight dinner into something worth talking about.

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