These Easy Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are a fun twist on taco night! Imagine juicy burgers topped with sweet corn, cheese, and a drizzle of tangy sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas.
They’re perfect for a casual dinner with friends or family. I love how you can enjoy all the flavors of street corn in a taco, making each bite filled with yumminess! 🌽❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 blend is best for juicy burgers. You can swap it for turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but keep in mind that they’ll cook faster and can be drier.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice cheesy flavor, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. Vegan cheese is also a great alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch. You can use canned or frozen corn; just make sure to drain and thaw them if frozen. For a twist, try roasted corn for a smoky flavor!
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese enhances the taco’s flavor. If you can’t find it, feta cheese works well too. A sprinkle of Parmesan can also do the job.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Smash Burgers?
Cooking the smash burgers correctly is vital for a great texture. To achieve that crispy edge, here are some tips:
- Use a hot skillet or a cast iron pan to sear the meat properly.
- Don’t be shy about smashing the patties down! This helps them cook evenly and forms that delicious crust.
- Only flip once. Let the first side cook for about 2-3 minutes before flipping. This ensures that the juices remain in the patty.
These tips will help make your burgers deliciously crispy and full of flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
For the Tacos:
- 4 small soft taco-sized tortillas
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
For the Creamy Corn Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
For Serving:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 4 dill pickle slices (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious option for dinner. With no long waits, you’ll be enjoying your tasty tacos in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, chopped red onion, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the corn kernels until everything is well combined. Set your corn sauce aside while you make the burgers.
2. Form and Cook the Smash Burgers:
Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Place one portion of beef in the pan and use a spatula to smash it flat into a thin patty. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy.
3. Add Cheese:
Flip the burger patties over and immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each one. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked through.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
While the burgers are cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave just until they are soft and pliable. This will make them easier to fold.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
On each warm tortilla, place a cheese-topped burger patty. Top it generously with the creamy corn mixture, then add a handful of shredded lettuce and a sprinkle of Cotija cheese.
6. Add a Tangy Crunch:
If you like, add a dill pickle slice on top for an extra crunch and tang. This gives the taco a little extra flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Street Corn Smash Burger Tacos are now ready to be served! Enjoy them immediately while they’re warm and gooey!
This recipe captures the essence of smash burgers with the bright, creamy flavors of street corn, all packed into an easy taco format. Happy eating! 🌮
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just be careful not to overcook it, as turkey can dry out easily. You may want to add some olive oil to keep the burgers juicy.
What If I Don’t Have Cotija Cheese?
No problem! If Cotija cheese is unavailable, crumbled feta is a perfect substitute, or you can use Parmesan cheese for a different flavor. Even shredded cheddar can work in a pinch!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, remove the fillings and microwave or heat them separately on the stove. Just warm the tortillas again lightly before reassembling.
Can I Prepare the Corn Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the corn sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before using, as the flavors will meld nicely when rested!
