These Easy Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on classic flavors! Picture juicy beef burgers topped with sweet corn and zesty sauces, all wrapped in soft tortillas.
They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. I love making extra to share with friends—everyone goes for seconds! 🌽🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juicy smash burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work, but they might need extra seasoning to keep them flavorful.
Corn: Fresh corn really shines in this recipe, but frozen works great too! You can even use canned corn if that’s what you have—just make sure to drain it well.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and pliable, perfect for this dish. Corn tortillas have a nice flavor and are gluten-free. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold taste, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or crumbled queso fresco for a different flavor profile.
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even cumin can add a nice touch. Adjust the spices based on your taste!
How Do I Get the Best Smash Burger Texture?
Getting that perfect crunchy crust on your smash burgers is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Use a hot skillet or griddle; this helps sear the meat instantly.
- After placing the patty in the pan, use a sturdy spatula to smash it flat. This increases the surface area for browning!
- Don’t move the patty around; let it cook undisturbed for the best crust.
- Flip only once to keep the juices in. Look for a brown color before flipping.
By following these simple tips, you’ll achieve that irresistible smash burger texture every time!
Easy Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Corn Mix:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
For the Zesty Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For Assembly:
- 4 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for heat
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola) for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious way to whip up dinner or lunch, with easy steps that make it simple to follow!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Drizzle in a little cooking oil to help cook the burgers without sticking.
2. Shape the Patties:
Form the ground beef into 4 equal-sized thin patties. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides to season them just right.
3. Smash the Burgers:
Place the patties on the hot skillet. Using a spatula, firmly press down on them to create a crispy crust. Cook for about 3 minutes until the bottom is well-browned and crispy.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the patties over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re done all the way through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re nice and juicy!
5. Make the Zesty Sauce:
While the patties are cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl to create a delicious zesty sauce.
6. Sauté the Corn:
In another pan, lightly sauté the corn kernels until they start to brown and caramelize, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This adds a sweet and savory touch!
7. Warm the Tortillas:
Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven for a few minutes. This will make them soft and pliable for your tacos.
8. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a warm tortilla and place a smash burger patty on it. Top it with the sautéed corn, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, and cilantro.
9. Add the Finishing Touch:
Drizzle the zesty mayo sauce over the toppings. If you like a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños on top!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos immediately while they’re warm and delicious. Enjoy this fun and flavorful twist on tacos!
FAQ for Easy Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it may not have the same richness as beef, so consider adding a little extra seasoning or moisture, like a splash of broth, to enhance the flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider adding minced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the zesty mayo. You could also use a spicy cheese or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed corn.
Can I Make the Tacos Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and the zesty sauce ahead of time! Cook the patties and let them cool, then store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the patty in a skillet and heat the tortillas briefly before assembling again for the best taste.
