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Flavorful Smash Burger Tacos Recipe with Caramelized Onions and Special Sauce Made Easy

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These smash burger tacos combine crispy, juicy patties with sweet caramelized onions and a tangy special sauce, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Special Sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon hot sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  2. Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced yellow onion and sprinkle 1 teaspoon brown sugar. Stir occasionally and cook slowly for 20-25 minutes until onions are golden brown and sweet. If onions stick or brown too fast, reduce heat and add a splash of water.
  3. Shape the Beef: Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Gently form loose balls without overworking the meat. Keep chilled until ready to cook.
  4. Heat the Skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and let it get very hot (3-5 minutes).
  5. Cook the Patties: Place 2-3 beef balls in the skillet without crowding. Using a sturdy spatula, smash each ball firmly to about ¼ inch thick. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until edges are brown and crispy, then flip carefully. Add a slice of cheddar cheese if using. Cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through.
  6. Warm the Tortillas: While burgers cook, warm corn tortillas in a dry skillet or wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes until soft and pliable.
  7. Assemble the Tacos: Spread about 1 tablespoon of special sauce on each tortilla. Add a smash burger patty, a spoonful of caramelized onions, and a handful of shredded lettuce. Fold and serve immediately.

Notes

Keep the skillet hot between batches to maintain a crispy crust. Smash patties only once to retain juiciness. For gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free, omit butter and cheese or use plant-based alternatives. The special sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger tacos, caramelized onions, special sauce, quick tacos, easy dinner, backyard grilling, crispy burger patties

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/flavorful-smash-burger-tacos-recipe-with-caramelized-onions-and-special-sauce-made-easy/