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Crispy Smash Burger Tacos with Pickled Jalapeño Relish

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These crispy smash burger tacos feature thin, crunchy-edged patties wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with a tangy, spicy pickled jalapeño relish. Quick and easy to make, they are perfect for casual dinners or get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or avocado oil
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (remove seeds for milder heat)
  • ½ cup white vinegar
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Mexican queso fresco
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, optional
  • Optional: sliced red onions or avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pickled Jalapeño Relish: In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, sugar, salt, and minced garlic. Warm over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves (3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and pour over sliced jalapeños in a heatproof bowl. Let cool to room temperature, then set aside or refrigerate.
  2. Form the Burger Patties: Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions (~2 oz each). Roll loosely into balls. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides just before cooking.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Place cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking (2-3 minutes).
  4. Smash the Patties: Place 2-3 beef balls on skillet spaced apart. Using a metal spatula or grill press, firmly press down to flatten patties about ¼ inch thick. Hold pressure for 10-15 seconds to form crust.
  5. Cook the Patties: Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crispy. Flip carefully, sprinkle cheese on top if using, and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patty is cooked through but juicy.
  6. Warm the Tortillas: While patties cook, warm tortillas on a dry skillet or over gas flame until soft and pliable.
  7. Assemble the Tacos: Place a patty on each tortilla, spoon over pickled jalapeño relish, add fresh cilantro leaves, and squeeze lime if desired. Add sliced avocado or red onions for extra flavor.
  8. Serve Immediately: Enjoy fresh and hot for the best crispy and juicy contrast.

Notes

Use a metal spatula for smashing to get crispy edges. Oil the spatula lightly if patties stick. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches to maintain high heat. The pickled jalapeño relish can be made ahead and refrigerated to deepen flavor. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based alternative. Leftovers keep up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat in skillet or oven to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, tacos, pickled jalapeño relish, crispy burger, quick dinner, easy recipe, homemade tacos, spicy relish

Find it online: https://milacook.com/crispy-smash-burger-tacos-recipe-easy-homemade-with-pickled-jalape-n-o-relish/